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A new survey has revealed that despite the fact that 96% of Canadians say tire maintenance is important, the majority of Canadians believe inaccurate maintenance-related myths. These widely held misconceptions are costing Canadians money at the gas pumps, reducing their vehicle's safety as well as emitting unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions. 

The 2005 Canadian Consumer Tire Attitude Study was conducted in February 2005 on behalf of The Rubber Association of Canada. 

The survey results are being released as part of National Be Tire Smart Week (April 24-30, 2005), an initiative sponsored by The Rubber Association of Canada. 

According to the survey, Canadians' greatest tire maintenance misconceptions include: 

• One out of two Canadians (51%) said they would measure their tire pressure when they "looked low" - in fact, you cannot tell if tires are mis-inflated just by looking at them. 

• One in three drivers (29%) mistakenly believes that the correct pressure is listed on tire sidewall - in fact, this is the maximum tire pressure. The recommended tire pressure is listed on the vehicle's information placard (often found on the driver's side door or doorframe). 

• Two out of three Canadians (63%) don't know to measure tire pressure when tires are "cold" - when the car has been stationary for at least three hours or when it has been driven less than two kilometers. 

There is some good news from the survey - more people are measuring their tire pressure on a regular basis. Two years ago, only 39% of those surveyed said they measured their tire pressure each month. In 2005, that's up to 48%. 

"The survey results are encouraging in that many more people understand the improved safety and fuel efficiency benefits from taking care of their tires," said Glenn Maidment, President, The Rubber Association of Canada. "The results indicate that there is still much more work to be done, however." 

Be Tire Smart Week, and the ongoing Be Tire Smart-Play Your PART tire maintenance campaign, are aimed at increasing Canadians' understanding of the cost savings, safety and environmental benefits of proper tire inflation. 

"If tires were properly maintained, over the typical seven-year life of a vehicle, Canadians could save approximately $850-$1000 on reduced fuel consumption and tire replacement costs. As well, fewer harmful greenhouse gas emissions would be released into the atmosphere," said Maidment. "Properly maintained tires also improve a vehicle's safety and handling." 

During Be Tire Smart Week, tire manufacturers and dealers and major Canadian retailers will distribute informational material to Canadian drivers to improve their customers' understanding of proper tire maintenance benefits. 

To find out more about tire maintenance, visit www.betiresmart.ca 

Source: CNW Group