Drivers are being warned to double-check their tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are in working order after the revelation that a number of cars failed their MOTs.
Charity TyreSafe are advising motorists to get their TPMS checked after faulty systems may have caused thousands of vehicles to fail their roadworthy tests.
TPMS give up-to-date information on tyre pressures, using individual sensors mounted to the valve inside the tyre or by calculating the pressure using the ABS system. However, drivers may not be aware that such systems can fail.
Stuart Jackson, chairman of TyreSafe, explained: "Ensuring tyre pressures are correct is a cornerstone of road safety. TPMS is a potentially life-saving technology which helps the driver monitor those pressures when they need it most – out on the road.
“As with all safety systems, drivers need to check their TPMS is fully-functioning regularly, not only to pass the MOT but to help reduce the risks of a tyre-related incident whenever they drive."
Motorists are reminded that if the TPMS sensor does need replacing, it should not be replaced with a standard valve.