DRIVERS PUMP UP THE VOLUME – BUT NOT THE TYRES: Kwik Fit Warns 4.9m Drivers Ignoring Tyre Pressures This Summer

A new study commissioned by Kwik Fit suggests many British holidaymakers devote more time to curating road-trip playlists than to making basic safety checks on their vehicles. With millions preparing for journeys exceeding 500 miles, the findings raise fresh concerns for tyre makers, retailers and roadside assistance providers ahead of the peak getaway season.

Research finds playlist planning trumps tyre safety

According to the nationally representative survey of 2,000 UK adults (Opinium, 27 June–1 July 2025), motorists heading to domestic destinations will cover an average 563 miles in their own cars this summer. Those driving to Europe expect to clock up 815 miles.

Yet 16 %—about 4.9 million drivers—admit they will not check tyre pressures before departure. Nearly a third of this group (30 %) will instead invest an average 36 minutes selecting music for the trip, while 55 % will spend roughly 22 minutes choosing in-car snacks.

Tyre pressures overlooked by 4.9 million motorists

• 22 % will not inspect tread depth.
• 28 % will forgo a coolant check despite the likelihood of high ambient temperatures.
• 22 % will not confirm adequate oil levels.
• 19 % will skip topping up screen-wash.

Overseas travel blind spots

A quarter of drivers taking their own car abroad will not review local driving regulations, and 23 % will fail to verify insurance or breakdown cover—potentially exposing both motorists and hire-car insurance providers to costly claims.

Industry reaction

“While good music can make a journey more enjoyable, even the best-curated playlist isn’t going to keep a car running smoothly,” says Dan Joyce, Operations Director at Kwik Fit. “Checking tyres and fluids is critical when planning to cover hundreds of miles, especially as many modern cars do not carry a spare wheel.”

Implications for tyre retailers and service providers

The research highlights an opportunity for workshops and dealers to promote pre-trip inspections and reinforce tyre-safety messaging. With long-distance summer travel on the rise, ensuring customers leave with correctly inflated, legally compliant tyres can reduce roadside breakdowns and strengthen brand trust.

Recommended actions for motorists and fleets

• Tyre pressures: Check against the manufacturer’s loaded-vehicle setting.
• Tread depth: Ensure ≥ 1.6 mm across the entire circumference; consider 3 mm for wet-weather safety.
• Fluids: Top up coolant, oil and screen-wash, and inspect for leaks.
• Climate control: Test air-conditioning performance ahead of hot-weather drives.
• Documentation: Confirm insurance, breakdown and European driving kit requirements before leaving the UK.

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Tagged with: tyre safety, summer travel, tyre pressure, vehicle maintenance, Kwik Fit research

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