FAQs

Cheap tyres are not always a good buy and that includes part-worn tyres which offer a false economy and here some of the main reasons why:

• Compromised Safety: With their previous usage, part-worn tyres might not provide the same level of grip as new tyres, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
• Limited Lifespan: Part-worn tyres have a significantly reduced lifespan. You may end up changing tyres more frequently, ultimately costing you more in the long run.
• Hidden Damage: Part-worn tyres could potentially harbour internal damage that isn’t visible, which may result in sudden tyre failure.

No, Elite Garages does not stock or sell part-worn tyres since they are secondhand tyres that may not be as safe as they should be. To ensure your safety, and that of other road users, Elite Garages has consciously chosen to only stock and sell new, high-quality tyres, sourced from reputable manufacturers.

Yes, while part-worn tyres are generally cheaper than new tyres, they can offer a false economy as many are sold with low tread depths. This mean that the cost per millimetre of tread is more expensive than new tyres. If your budget is tight, consider buying economy tyres but stay away from part-worn tyres if possible.

Yes, a tyre bulge in the sidewall will result in an MOT failure as the test checks the overall safety of your car, and considers a tyre bulge a serious safety concern.

No, it is not safe to drive on a tyre with a bulge in the sidewall as it indicates internal damage, and the tyre needs to be replaced immediately. Driving on a tyre with a bulge can lead to a blowout or sudden loss of control while driving.

Apart from the legal tread depth limit of 1.6mm, other specific tyre requirements that must be met for the MOT test include the following:

• Tyre condition: Tyres must be in good condition, with no cuts, bulges, or lumps on the sidewall or tread.
• Tyre pressure: Tyres must be inflated to the correct pressure, as specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
• Type and size: Tyres must be the correct size and type for the vehicle, as specified in the vehicle handbook.
• Tyre speed rating: The speed rating of the tyres must be equal to or greater than the maximum speed of the vehicle.
• Tyre load capacity: Tyres must have a load capacity that is equal to or greater than the maximum weight of the vehicle.

In the UK, the legal minimum tyre tread depth for a car to pass its MOT is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre’s tread. Any tread depth below this limit is considered unsafe and illegal, resulting in an MOT failure.

While the minimum legal tyre tread depth is 1.6 mm, many experts recommend replacing your tyres when the tread depth reaches 3mm and no less than 2mm. This can help to maintain better grip, stability and braking performance in all weather conditions.