Monday, October 4, 2010

Warning All Drivers - Pedals Get Stuck Under All Weather Car Mats

Even the most conscientious drivers could find that they are in danger as a result of something that should be protecting their car. All weather car mats are great for keeping dirt off of the carpets and they should still be used, a simple measure can ensure that you remain safe while your carpets remain clean.

Floor mats are a great addition to any car. A one off payment for some good quality tailored car mats will extend the lifetime of your carpets, which cannot be easily replaced. As the weather deteriorates you may think it is a good idea to invest in some all weather tailored mats, and you would be right. It is unavoidable that mud and rain will get into your vehicle; any preventative methods such as changing your shoes before you get in the car are fussy and impractical.

But there have been several cases where pedals have become stuck underneath rubber, all weather car mats. Toyota infamously had to recall their vehicles for their pedals becoming trapped under mats. More recently, Ford recalled some of their 2010 model after receiving similar complaints.

After tests, Ford discovered that it was not a result of faulty design. The cars which had reported sticky pedals had in fact simply been trapped underneath all weather floor mats which were stacked on top of their tailored carpet mats. The advice is that if you intend to use rubber car mats you must first remove the carpet mats, as stacking them can obstruct the pedals. This advice is relevant to any make and model of vehicle.

Pedal entrapment may also occur if the mats are not correctly fitted. Universal mats are prone to slipping and sliding and gathering which is a serious hazard. It is always advisable to buy tailored car mats from a reputable manufacturer who can precisely cut the mats into the right shape for the model of your car.

It is still advisable to buy car mats, but just ensure that they are correctly and safely fitted.

Happy driving.

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