You might have noticed signs for sale of partially worn tyres by the side of the road and wondered what exactly they were. However, for others, they are simply too unsafe or even dangerous to consider. For some, they are a quick and inexpensive option to get new rubber installed on their car.
Partially used tyres are exactly what their name implies—used tyres. Part worn tyres are typically sold by scrap dealers or other businesses that deal with used automobiles or write-offs because doing so is a way to make a little more money on the side. If a seller is wrecking a car, they may attempt to rescue the cheap tyres as well, if they are worth salvaging.
People may have different opinions about what qualifies as a salvageable tyre, therefore what one person deems to be a “safe” tyre may be as dangerous as another.
Purchasing a Part worn tyre is similar to purchasing a used electrical item in that you have no recourse if there are any problems with it, and you have no legal recourse if you sustain injuries in an accident that can be directly attributed to the installation of Part worn tyres.
Additionally, we would purchase them in pairs so that you could put two tyres on the same axle that, in theory, should match. It’s highly unlikely that you can find a single tyre that has the same amount of tread wear as the other three on your car if you’re only buying one.
Are used tyres legal?
While selling Part worn tyres is fully lawful, shops must observe the following rules under The Motor Vehicle Tyres (Safety) Regulations, which are part of the Consumer Protection Act:
They must be devoid of incisions larger than 25mm, as well as bulges and masses both internally and externally.
Prior to sale, they must pass an inflation test.
- The original grooves must be visible all the way around the tyre.
- Tread must be at least 2mm wide across the tyre’s width and around the full circle.
Part worn tyres that have not got retreaded must bear an ‘E’ mark next to the words ‘PART WORN’. This must be permanently put in at least 4mm high letters and can’t cut or branded into the tyre.
What to watch out for with worn tyres:
Tyre tread wear
The main aspect to look at is tread wear. If the tyre hasn’t been actually driven on much, you should get a lot of mileage out of it. But who’s to say you won’t have to pay again in a few months when your car fails its MoT because the tyres got worn
While most retailers and safety bodies advise replacing your tyres when there is 3mm of tread depth remaining, new tyres have 8mm of tread on them. Anything less than this is not worth working with, and even if there is more tread, it is preferable to go elsewhere if it is not equally worn across the tyre.
Tyres sidewall damage
If the tread is in good condition, it’s time to inspect the sides. If the tyres have come off a car that has been in an accident (again, how do you know if they have or haven’t? ), the tyres are likely to have got damaged in the collision. Perhaps the bodywork made contact with the tyre, or lateral stresses destroyed the sidewall construction.
Regardless of this, bad parking can cause sidewall damage. Any cuts, scrapes, or loose rubber on the sidewalls could indicate damage to the tyre’s construction. Therefore inspect the inside of the tyre as well.
Tyre repair
A tyre that have got punctured by a nail, screw, or other sharp object piercing the tread can get repaired with a rubber plug that seals the tread against leakage.
There is nothing wrong with these repairs, but where the tread get perforated. The belts that help the tyres hold their form will be also damaged. Some tyres cannot be actually repaired, and those that can may have their maximum speed rating reduced. Examine the tyre’s inside carcass for damage once more. If you’re being thorough, it’s probably best to avoid tyres that have any form of damage, either inside or out.
Should you buy worn tyres?
Even in the best-case situation, buying Part worn tyres is a risk. With an unknown history and the possibility of failure, you may be taking your own and others’ lives into your own hands. What could be a short-term savings could cost you dearly in the long run.
Long-term Land Rover Discovery Sport tyre details
If you’re determined to buy some used car tyres. Follow our simple instructions below to offer yourself the best chance of finding a fair bargain.
Top buying advice for worn tyres:
1. Purchase from a trusted vendor.
2. Learn everything you can about the tyre’s history.
3. Look for high-quality tyres.
4. Purchase tyres in pairs so that the tyres on each axle of your vehicle match.
5. Examine the tread depth and uneven wear.
6. Inspect the tyre carcass from the inside out for any damage or repairs.
7. If in doubt, do not purchase.
There should be no shortcuts when it comes to road safety for yourself and other drivers. Although they may be less expensive, the risks associated with Part worn tyres make them not worth the money you may save.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while buying partially worn tyres may seem like a cost-effective option. It’s important to consider the safety risks associated with them. Part worn tyres are essentially used tyres and may have defects that could pose a risk to the driver and other road users. It is crucial to purchase from a trusted vendor and inspect the tyres thoroughly for any damage or repairs.
Additionally, it is advisable to purchase tyres in pairs so that the tyres on each axle of the vehicle match. While selling Part worn tyres is legal, it is important to ensure that they meet safety regulations, including having a minimum tread depth of 2mm and bearing an ‘E’ mark next to the words ‘PART WORN’ if they have not been retreaded. Ultimately, road safety