Why part-worn tyres are a false economy

18th June 2012

Van operators and drivers may be putting themselves and other road users at risk of injury if they choose to fit part-worn tyres to their vehicles.

Campaign group TyreSafe issued the warning following a month-long nationwide investigation where it purchased a random sample of 50 part-worn tyres.  They were inspected by an independent tyre expert, who found that 98% of them were being sold illegally. 

Of even greater concern was that over a third of the tyres were found to contain potentially dangerous forms of damage or non-compliance.  Serious safety breaches included dangerous and unsafe repairs, exposed cords, bead damage and evidence of run-flat damage.

Vehicle owners often choose part-worn tyres in the belief that they offer better value. However, TyreSafe’s investigation disproved this myth as it found the average cost per millimetre of useable tread was £6.33, whereas the comparable cost when selecting an equivalent new tyre was 16% lower at £5.32.

“Although a number of regulations exist which permit the sale of part-worn tyres, it’s clear from our investigation that these are not being adhered to,” Stuart Jackson, the chairman of TyreSafe, said.  “Before buying part worn tyres, I would urge drivers to ask themselves if the risk is really worth it?

“Even if properly marked, it is impossible to know the history of a part-worn tyre, which makes it extremely difficult to be sure about its internal condition and safety credentials.  With rigorous quality controls on all new tyres, fitting these as replacements is undoubtedly the safest option.  It’s often the best value too.”