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September 29, 2006
LA TIMES LOOKS AT TIRE PERFORMANCE PROBLEMS
In two recent articles, Los Angeles Times reporter Ralph Vartabedian has taken a close look at safety problems associated with tires – first, the inadequacies of built-in tire pressure warning systems being mandated by NHTSA and, second, the drawbacks of low aspect ratio tires, known as “slim” tires.
Reporting on criticisms of the warning systems, Vartabedian reported that a “close look at tire pressure monitoring systems shows that, in general, they will fail to relieve car owners of the burden of closely watching their tire pressures. While they may help to alert people of dangerously low air pressure, they will generally not warn drivers of air pressure low enough to cause slow tire damage.” He recommends that car owners check their tire pressure manually at least once a month.
In another article, Vartabedian compared “slim” tires, which are popular for their “cool” look, to “rubber bands.” He noted that
“engineers and safety experts say low aspect ratio tires — which have shorter sidewalls — are more vulnerable to road hazards, such as potholes and other obstructions that can test a tire's ability to flex at high speed, than their standard counterparts. Officials from Goodyear, Michelin and Bridgestone — the three largest tire makers — all acknowledged in interviews that their low aspect ratio tires are more likely to be damaged by impacts in normal driving…“Although consumers like the low-profile tires, safety experts are dubious about their practicality. ‘My observation, other than styling, is why have them?’ asks Clarence Ditlow, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety in Washington, D.C. ‘My advice to consumers is don't buy them.’ Perhaps. But many don't have a choice. Manufacturers are offering autos with wheel wells designed to fit only a low aspect ratio tire, especially luxury cars with a sporty image.”
Posted by MVHAP at September 29, 2006 12:11 PM