A new study from HiQ Tyres & Autocare reveals that more than a quarter of tyre replacements in the UK are due to road damage, with potholes and poorly maintained surfaces causing significant wear and tear for British drivers. The study highlights the economic and safety implications of declining road quality across the country, particularly in counties where road conditions are markedly worse.
HiQ’s month-long research, which surveyed tyre replacement data across its nationwide network, found that 28% of all tyre changes in the UK were directly related to damage caused by poor road surfaces. This data brings attention to the ongoing issue of road deterioration, exacerbated by adverse weather and heavy traffic, which has left British motorists with costly repair bills and safety concerns.
The study ranked counties based on the frequency of pothole-related tyre damage, with West Sussex topping the list at 65%, followed by Derbyshire at 41.4%, and Hampshire at 41.3%. By contrast, regions with better-maintained roads, such as Staffordshire (9.8%), Northamptonshire (13.5%), and Devon (14%), reported fewer cases of damage-related tyre replacements. HiQ’s findings are a stark reminder of the urgent need for road infrastructure improvements to relieve the financial burden on drivers and enhance road safety across the UK.
Commenting on the study, Craig Sprigmore, Retail Director for HiQ Tyres & Autocare UK & Ireland, noted, “The results of this research underscore the frustrations that drivers face due to the deteriorating state of the roads across the country. For many, poorly maintained roads are not just an inconvenience—they present real safety risks.”
Road maintenance has become a key concern for both motorists and authorities. Potholes, often formed by freeze-thaw cycles during the winter months, cause cracking and damage to road surfaces, which are further degraded by high traffic volumes. Such road damage often appears suddenly and can lead to severe issues for tyres and suspension systems.
Sprigmore encouraged drivers to carry out regular tyre checks to minimise risks associated with pothole damage. “At HiQ, we’re dedicated to helping our customers keep their vehicles safe on the road. We offer free tyre pressure and safety checks at all of our locations to give customers peace of mind,” he said, adding that maintaining tyre health can prevent further damage and keep repair costs down.
To further support motorists, HiQ Tyres & Autocare’s 160-plus autocentres provide a free accidental tyre damage warranty with every Goodyear tyre purchase, reinforcing the company’s commitment to customer service and road safety. In addition to tyre services, HiQ offers full car servicing and maintenance for a range of vehicles, aiming to provide comprehensive support for drivers affected by poor road conditions.
The report emphasises the critical need for the UK’s road infrastructure to meet the demands of modern traffic, particularly as motorists face increased maintenance costs. Addressing these issues, Sprigmore noted, would not only improve driving comfort but also ensure that Britain’s roads are safer for all.
As the financial and safety impacts of poor road conditions continue to rise, industry experts and motorists alike are calling for more investment in infrastructure to ensure that UK roads are up to standard, reducing both repair costs for drivers and the risks posed by potholes and other hazards.
