More than 7 in 10 Europeans driving with underinflated tires

With well over two thirds of Europe's motorists driving on underinflated tires, adjusting tire pressure is a simple way that most drivers can save some money.

Last month, tire manufacturer Bridgestone released the results of a survey of tire pressure conducted across nine European countries which suggested a staggering 71 percent of motorists drive on under-inflated tires.

Seven and a half percent were severely underinflated, at a level which creates a real safety risk, but Bridgestone calculated that 2.0 billion liters of fuel are wasted annually due to underinflation - adding an extra 4.8 million tons of carbon dioxide emission.

Despite the fact that having underinflated tires is against the law in many countries, most drivers don't bother regularly checking whether their tires are at the right pressure.

Most worryingly, Bridgestone's figures may even be on the low side - a survey of mechanics carried out by the Rubber Manufacturers Association suggested 95 percent of motorists could be driving at the incorrect pressure.

Tips on checking tire inflation pressure

- Look for the proper information in your vehicle - data on the tire may not always be correct for the vehicle type.
- Make sure the tire is cool before you start - it is normal for pressure to increase after driving.
- Check using a tire gauge, once a month and before long trips. If you don't have one, many service stations offer free pressurized air with a gauge attached.

Taken from Rubber Manufacturers Association Tire Safety Guide: http://www.rma.org/tire_safety/

Watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qywkVSaa6o

See also http://www.ehow.com/how_112754_inflate-tires.html

http://www.bridgestone.eu