Jan 2012: Cost A Major Factor Deterring Purchase of Winter Tyres – Survey Reveal

The winter tyre debate rages on. A survey carried out by Roadside service provider Mondial Assistance reveals that the comparative high costs of winter tyres is the top reason UK motorists fail to fit them.

The Survey Details

The firm carried out a survey amongst 200 respondents, who were asked about their winter tyre plans.

A surprising 60% of the people surveyed said that they do not intend to switch to winter tyres at all. Further, 46% out of this group revealed that the reason for this decision is the high cost of winter tyres.

“Winter Driving Conditions Can be Tricky”, Mondial

Mr. Lee Taylor, Automotive Director, Mondial Services UK expressed surprise at this result.

Mr. Taylor reiterated that winter weather with its snow and icy surfaces present unique challenges to driving and it is best to be prepared with winter tyres to reduce risk of accidents.

In the past 2 years, the UK has experienced three severe winter spells. And it appears that 2012 is going to be no different.

Mr. Lee admitted that the results were doubly puzzling because over 64% motorists on the survey acknowledged that driving in the snow was difficult, yet they cited high cost as the reason for not switching to winter tyres.

Not Prepared to Invest in Snow Socks and Snow Chains

The survey further revealed that only 27% of the respondents were serious about fitting snow socks for their tyres and a mere 4% were considering snow chains.

Snow socks are strong fabric that fit tight over the existing tyres and improve their snow grip. Snow chains are chains that are attached to the tyres and provide maximum traction while driving trough ice and snow.

The snow chains have to be purchased in accordance with the tyre size. Of the female respondents surveyed, 33% opted for the not so practical, but perhaps the safest winter driving strategy – ‘non-driving in snow’. Only 10% of the male respondents said they would exercise this option.

Avail of Cost Effective Winter Tyre Packages, Urges Mondial

In response to motorists’ concern over costs of winter tyres several manufacturers are offering cost-effective winter tyre packages, revealed Mr. Taylor.

Some of these packages include storage of summer tyres and suitable servicing for winter tyres. Besides, using summer and winter tyres as per the season ensures that each set of tyres gets worn only half as much and thus both sets will last longer.

Benefits of Winter Tyres

Winter tyres are designed for better performance on ice and snow. Weather department has indicated that UK will have a tough winter in 2012 with snow similar to last year.

Without suitable winter tyres, chances of getting stuck in snow are high. Moreover the rubber compound used in regular tyres loses its flexibility at temperatures below 8 degrees Celsius.

This results in reduced grip and increased braking distances increasing the chances of accidents. The special grade of silica used in winter tyres retains its flexibility at the lowest of temperatures ensuring safety in the most extreme winter weather conditions.

All major tyre brands have their collection of winter tyres. It is best to opt for winter weather tyres soon. After all, no expense is too great when it ensures your safety and that of your family.