Whether it’s general wear and tear over time, the countless number of potholes in the UK, or that solitary nail that’s appeared from nowhere, having to buy new tyres is never a welcome event.
Many motorists have turned to purchasing part-worn tyres to soften the blow in the current economic climate, as they are perceived as being not only better value for money but also just as safe as brand-new tyres.
However, a recent investigation carried out by TyreSafe and Trading Standards set out to prove this theory wrong. The study revealed that thousands of drivers have been exposed to alarmingly high levels of risk, as 93% of part-worn tyres have been sold illegally, with over half having safety critical faults.
Motorists are reminded to consider the true cost of part-worn tyres instead of the low price tags. According to TyreSafe, the lifetime cost of buying used tyres is £6.33 per mm compared with £5.32 for a new tyre.
Stuart Jackson, Chairman of TyreSafe, said:
‘However tempting it may be to save money by paying a lower price at the time of purchase, motorists should be aware of the false economy. Your tyres will have to be replaced much sooner and at a similar price to the ones previously fitted so you won’t benefit in the long term. TyreSafe urges Britain’s motorists to put the safety of themselves and others on the road first and not buy part-worn tyres.’
According to the Consumer Protection Act, it’s a criminal offence for anyone to sell part-worn tyres that do not meet industry standards and requirements.
These requirements are:
- The tyre must be correctly inflated to the correct pressure level.
- The tyre must have at least 2mm of tread depth around its entire circumference.
- The tyre’s integral structure must not be damaged.
Arnold Clark is committed to ensuring your tyres are both safe and legal so if you’re unsure about the condition of your tyres don’t hesitate to visit your local Arnold Clark Service Centre for a free tyre safety check.