Random tyre inspections

At the end of August and first half of September, random tyre inspections are carried out in different parts of Sweden.

How random tyre inspections are done

The polic conducts normal traffic inspections, in which the driver is asked to present his/her driving license and is given a breathalyser test. When this has been completed, the driver is offered the opportunity of having the car’s tyres inspected. The tyre inspection is voluntary.

While tyre specialists check the inflation pressure and depth of the tyres’ tread, traffic safety experts from NTF (The National Society for Road Safety) explains the importance of having adequate tread and the correct inflation pressure in the tyres. Information is also given about labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters. The driver is also asked to answer several questions. When the tyre inspection has been completed, the driver is given a device to measure tread depth, a form listing the measured tread depth and inflation pressure of the car’s tyres, and an information flyer.

The tread depths and inflation pressures that are checked during the random inspections is recorded. The results forms the basis of a random tyre inspection report.

Joint efforts for increased awareness

The tyre inspection project is a joint effort between the NTF, Bilprovningen (Swedish MOT), The Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI), Däckbranschens informationsråd (the Swedish tyre trade’s information council) and the Swedish Energy Agency. Its purpose is to increase motorists’ awareness of the significance of tread depth with respect to traffic safety, and the importance of proper inflation pressure for the environment, traffic safety, and for personal finances. The purpose is also to inform about labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters. The project began in 2004.