One third of northern beaches’ drivers unaware of dangerous tyres or brakes
A new NRMA survey has revealed the shockingly high number of vehicles being driven around on Sydney’s northern beaches with faults. Read expert advice to ensuring your car meets road safety standards.
Manly
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One out of every three cars on the northern beaches is being driven around with either dodgy brakes or tyres, a new survey suggests.
Motorists’ group NRMA said that data it collected showed that car owners were waiting too long to have their vehicles serviced.
The NRMA is using the survey results to recommend that motorists service their vehicles at least every six months to avoid putting themselves at risk of serious accidents.
From June 2018 to June 2019 the NRMA surveyed staff at its network of car servicing centres, including its outlets at Brookvale and Narrabeen.
It found that one in three cars serviced by the NRMA on the northern beaches had potentially dangerous tyre or brake issues.
The top four maintenance issues brought up in the survey were brakes, tyres, suspension work and cooling system repairs.
Narrabeen store manager Eli Hovagimian said one of the NRMA’s key roles was to advocate for the safety of motorists.
He said the survey figures were a reminder of the importance of having a vehicle regularly serviced.
“All these components play an important role in maintaining the vehicle’s ability to perform efficiently and safely on the road,” Mr Hovagimian said.
“Under or over-inflated tyres can suddenly burst, reducing your ability to control your vehicle. While worn tyres are more likely to slip, take longer to brake or have a weak grip on the road, contributing to a possible accident,” Mr Hovagimian said.
“Replacing tyres before they completely lose their tread and maintaining optimal tyre pressure are musts for preventing these mechanical failures on the road.”
Mr Hovagimian said bad brakes were a leading cause of crashes caused by mechanical malfunctions.
“Common brake-related issues include faulty or worn brake lines, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) malfunction or worn brake pads and discs. All of these issues can compromise brake performance resulting in longer stop distances and increased accident risks.
“If your vehicle’s due for an inspection, it’s important to get that inspection done so you know if there are any issues that need fixing before your safety is put at risk.”
Mr Hovagimian, who lives on the northern beaches, said his crew often see rusty brake lines due to the salt water in the area.
Visit www.mynrma.com.au/cars-and-driving/car-servicing. NRMA members receive 10 per cent off their invoice.