TYRE SAFETY

At SEAT UK, we've affirmed our commitment to driver safety and responsible motoring by becoming the first vehicle manufacturer to join tyre safety organisation TyreSafe.

TyreSafe is the new name for the Tyre Industry Council. It's a not for profit organisation set up 16 years ago dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of defective and worn tyres.

For more information regarding TyreSafe, please visit www.tyresafe.org

Q. Do I have to pay an environmental charge for tyres removed from my car?

A. Most tyre retailers apply an environmental charge to remove and responsibly dispose of old tyres. These old tyres can no longer be dumped in landfill sites, and many are used as a fuel source to power cement kilns.

Q. How can I find out if my tyre can be repaired following a puncture?

A. Minor repairs to passenger and light van tyres must be carried out in accordance with the recommendations in the British Standard BS AU 159.

Q. How far/fast can I drive with a run flat tyre in a deflated condition?

A. Recommendations vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and drivers should always consult the car manufacturer's handbook for the distance that can be travelled and speed driven.

Q. Do I have to fit winter tyres in the winter?

A. In the UK, fitting winter tyres isn't a legal requirement, although some drivers in the north of the UK do choose to switch to winter tyres at the appropriate time of the year. UK drivers travelling to certain European countries may be required to fit winter tyres. You can get this information from the DfT.

Q. Are tyres recycled?

A. Almost all tyres scrapped here in the UK are disposed of in a reasonable manner. Some are re-treaded and therefore have a second or even third life. For example, some tyres are recycled and used in children's play areas. Many tyres that cannot be re-used are used as a fuel source at cement kilns.

Q. How many miles can I get from my set of tyres?

A. Tyre life depends on how they're used. A set of well-maintained tyres used exclusively on motorways can get much higher mileage, versus tyres that are badly maintained and driven in a city centre and urban environment.

Q. How can I find out the correct pressure from my tyres?

A. You'll find this information in the car manufacturer's handbook, and at many tyre retailers they'll have a pressure chart to consult. Failing that, you can get in touch with the tyre manufacturer.