One in Seven Cars Driven on Unroadworthy Tyres
By Oliver Hall
At least one of the tyres on a staggering 16 per cent of vehicles in New Zealand’s major towns and cities is unroadworthy, according to a recent survey.
The 1,600 vehicles surveyed in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch showed a 40 per cent increase over a similar survey conducted in 1999.
Goodyear Dunlop Tyres NZ marketing manager Jamie Stewart said the results are consistent with recent tyre sales and are possibly a reflection of people prioritising their spending over the past 12 months.
Mr Stewart said: “Our 2009 market research has shown that people are prepared to take the risk and put off replacing worn-out tyres.”
He added: “When you consider that one in seven cars you pass on the road has at least one bad tyre, it puts this result into perspective.
“Tyres are a bit of a grudge purchase for many consumers but they’re the only thing connecting you and your passengers to the road.”
Number: Z8037079
Reg: NKF419
