This is against the background of some 8,000 cars this year failing the National Car Test because of tyres problems, in many cases being incorrectly fitted by untrained tyre dealers. Part-worn tyres sold to motorists are also contributing to record levels of failure.
Incorrect fitting of 'directional' tyres is an increasing difficulty that is 'widespread and endangering', according to Kevin Farrell of the ITIA. He says the new licencing system will both raise standards and ensure consumers can distinguish a reputable operator from an unscrupulous one. "This extends to the sale of part-worn tyres," he says. "Licenced retailers will agree not to sell these potentially dangerous products.”
An ITIA survey last year revealed that over half of second-hand or part-worn tyres sold in Ireland were dangerous or ‘not fit for purpose’ based on tread depth, general condition or age.
Directional tyres feature grooves sculpted in the direction in which the car is travelling, thereby providing maximum dispersal of water in the rain. Fitted the wrong way round, braking performance is seriously impaired, and a car will take much longer to stop in wet conditions. An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates the direction in which a directional tyre should be fitted.
All licensed retailers also have to comply with strict criteria which includes the independent accreditation of staff skills. The ITIA says motorists will have a clearly visible sign to help them identify those tyre retailers who place safety at the forefront of their service.
It's the first time that standards have been introduced to the tyre industry here and is in direct response to a mandate from ITIA members. Some 35 outlets are already licenced, with four tyre retailers in Galway — Ballinasloe Tyres, Byrnes Tyres, Donnellan Auto Service and Treacy Tyres — the first in the country to be granted licences last month.
