Tyre Aquaplaning

What is Aquaplaning?

Aquaplaning is an issue faced in the UK due to the high levels of rainfall which can create pools of deep surface water on the road which can get between the tyre and road surface. When the vehicle meets deep surface water the tyres can lose contact with the road if the tread is unable to clear the water. If the tyre is unable to grip the road this will cause a lack of traction which means that the driver is unable to maintain control of the vehicle as braking and steering become near impossible. Aquaplaning can not only be a frightening experience for the driver but is also likely to cause an accident due to the lack of vehicle control. 

Vector 4Seasons Gen-3

Aqua Control Technology

Many Goodyear tyres contain specially designed tread technology designed disperse water to minimise the risk of aquaplaning. The latest Goodyear Vector 4Seasons features advanced Aqua Control Technology, designed to provide excellent aquaplaning resistance throughout the life of the tyre. The tread design allows for continuous water dispersion to ensure the tyres of the vehicle maintain contact and grip the road in wet conditions.

How to Avoid Aquaplaning

The risk of aquaplaning can be minimised by taking these simple steps:

Checking tread depth and monitoring tyre pressure

Monitoring tread depth and ensuring tyres are inflated to the correct pressure allows for optimum tyre performance.

Use dry tracks/avoid puddles

If it is safe to do so, following a dryer path on the road and avoiding large areas of standing surface water.

Avoid driving in poor conditions

Reducing the likelihood of coming into contact with a high amount of surface water or extremely wet conditions will minimise the risks of aquaplaning.

Avoid harsh braking in wet conditions

Slowing the vehicle over a longer distance is much less erratic and helps to maintain control of the vehicle in wet conditions. 

Vector 4Seasons Gen-3

Driving in the Rain

Tyre in the rain

Tips for Driving in the Rain

In Aquaplaning and deep surface water is not the only risk associated with driving in wet conditions. In moderate to heavy rainfall drivers are recommended to take further precautions in order to maximise the safety of their vehicle. There are checks you can make before your journey to ensure your vehicle is in the best condition possible to deal with the elements and adaptations that can be made to your driving style to increase the level of vehicle control.


Car driving in the rain

Be Prepared for Driving in the Rain

The unpredictability of the British weather means your vehicle needs to be in the best condition to deal with the potential risk of heavy showers at any time. You can do this by regularly making these easy checks:

  • Wipers and screen wash: always make sure they are in good working order and the screen wash is kept topped up,
  • Lights: Make sure your lights are working so that visibility isn’t reduced,
  • Tyres: keep an eye on the basics such as tyre tread and pressure and invest in the correct tyres for the season.

Car driving in the rain

How to Drive Safely in the Rain

Alongside keeping your vehicle in the best condition to face wet weather, it is also recommended to adapt your driving style to maximise vehicle control and safety:

  • Reduce your speed in heavy rain: the wet road surface will offer less grip to the tyres compared to dry conditions which can affect the ability to control the vehicle,
  • Keep your distance from the vehicle in front: braking distances increase on wet roads; the distance will also help to increase visibility with less tyre spray from the vehicle ahead,
  • Ensure windows are kept free from fog and condensation: good ventilation from the air conditioning can help to maintain good visibility,
  • Remain focused on the road ahead: this will help to minimise rushed or jerked vehicle movement which can lead to a loss of control on rain-slicked roads,

Vector 4Seasons Gen-3

The latest generation of the Goodyear All Season tyre is designed to provide excellent driving performance in all weather conditions, all year long. Combining elements of both winter and summer tyres, the Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 is designed to provide year-round performance against the elements. 

Aqua Control Technology

Designed with Aqua Control Technology, the deepened and widened tread groves to ensure continuous water dispersion throughout the lifetime of the tyre. 

Dry Handling Technology

Stronger shoulder and crown blocks reduce deformation of the tyre during heavy manoeuvres, resulting in improved handling and shorter braking distance in dry conditions. 

Snow Grip Technology

The increased number of sipes intersecting in the centre of the tread provide better grip and handling on snow. 




Vector 4Seasons Gen 3 Tyre




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