Vehicle repair experts are advising drivers across the Midlands to properly prepare for summer motoring after survey revealed more than half of drivers (58%) do not even carry a useable spare wheel.

Over 1,000 drivers were quizzed by Mr Clutch Autocentres on summer motoring habits and what emergency precautions they took.

Feedback showed that the majority of spare wheels either flat or bald tyre.
Mr Clutch founder, Joseph Yussuf comments: “As the busy summer holiday season approaches, people will be increasing their travel distances and hours on the road. Many people consider driving during the summer months as being safer than in the winter and as a result, become more lax about checking vehicle essentials.
“In fact, driving during the summer can be as equally dangerous as winter motoring. For example, warm weather and poor tyre pressure can cause tyre blow-outs, while freak storms can lead to aquaplaning.”

The survey identified that over 79% of drivers do not carry an emergency kit in their cars, while only 26% regularly checked their tyre pressures. Yussuf continues: “As we have seen over the past coupe of weeks, the Midlands has experiences a spell of warm weather, which can catch people out.
“Along with ensuring their vehicle is properly maintained, people need to prepare for getting stuck in traffic jams. Lengthy delays, such as those which left emergency services airlifting water t stranded drivers on the M25 recently, can lead to dehydration, engine overheating or cars running out of petrol.”

“Although it can seem quite time consuming to carry out regular vehicle checks such as oil, water, screen wash and tyre pressure, and prepare an emergency kit these steps can prove invaluable and make summer driving safer and more enjoyable.”

Yussuf recommends the following basics for motorists worried about those long summertime journey: WATER – make sure that you are well topped up and have sufficient coolant. AIR – check tyre pressure at least once every two weeks and before a long journey. RUBBER – the legal limit for tyre tread is 1.6mm. To be safe, do not let your grip get below or near this level. MILES – check routes before you set off and ensure that you have got plenty of petrol. Also, check that windscreen wipers are working and screen wash is not running dry. WATER AND SNACKS – beat dehydration and hunger in traffic jams and breakdowns. FIRST AID – always carry a kit in your glove box. AUTO KIT – prepare a kit for your boot including jump, oil, screen wash, coolant, tow rope and a torch. TELEPHONE NUMBERS - make sure you have contact details for your Breakdown Company, insurers and people you are traveling to meet. HEAT – although it may be hot during the day, carry a travel blanket to keep you warm if you breakdown at night. ENTERTAINMENT – pack travel games to beat boredom if you become stranded and carry sunglasses and sunscreens to protect against the sun rays.