A recent investigation into the sale of used cars in the UK has uncovered concerning findings regarding the condition of tires. The study revealed that approximately 16% of vehicles on the market have tires that are deemed ‘potentially dangerous,’ raising doubts about their ability to last until the next MOT inspection. Moreover, around 8% of cars are being sold with tires that would warrant a ‘warning’ during an MOT assessment, with many of them having treads at or below the legal limit of 1.6mm, including those sold by dealerships.
The research, conducted in collaboration with Professor Peter Wells from Cardiff University’s Centre for Automotive Research, analyzed nearly 500 vehicles across more than 100 locations nationwide. The results, presented during Tyre Safety Month, highlighted that 16% of the vehicles examined had a tread depth of 3.6mm or less, a level considered risky by Professor Wells given the typical annual tread wear rate of 2mm. This stage is crucial as tire performance begins to decline, with new tires usually having an 8mm tread depth.
Moreover, a significant portion of vehicles exhibited even poorer tire conditions, with approximately 8% having treads measuring 3mm or less, a threshold that could trigger a ‘warning’ during an MOT inspection. At this point, tire performance notably deteriorates, particularly in wet conditions, diminishing by about 20%. Among the 481 vehicles studied, four were identified with treads at 1.6mm or lower, with three of them having over 10 months left until their MOT expiry, indicating they might become illegal by then.
Although tires with a 1.6mm tread depth are legally compliant, they pose substantial risks as they require a significantly longer braking distance compared to new tires. This heightened stopping distance could be critical in avoiding accidents, emphasizing the importance of tire safety for all motorists.
One alarming case involved a dealership selling a car valued at £8,000 with visibly worn tires measuring 1.55mm tread depth and a ten-month MOT. Similarly, another major dealership offered a £15,000 vehicle with a 12-month MOT and tires at the legal limit of 1.6mm. Despite meeting legal requirements, such tires are highly compromised and could jeopardize road safety.
In response to these findings, Halfords is providing complimentary tire checks nationwide to assist recent secondhand car buyers in ensuring their tires meet safety standards. These checks, including the 10-Point Check for Halfords Motoring Club members, aim to empower drivers to proactively monitor their tire conditions and enhance road safety awareness.
The survey conducted by Motorvise examined tire tread depths on 481 vehicles available for sale at various dealerships across the UK, with private sellers also included in the assessment. The methodology and data analysis were overseen by Professor Peter Wells, ensuring rigor and accuracy in the research findings.
Furthermore, public sentiment aligns with the need for stricter regulations concerning tire safety in used car sales. An overwhelming 81% of respondents believe it should be obligatory for all secondhand cars sold in the UK to have adequate tire tread depth to last until their next MOT inspection. This collective call for enhanced safety measures underscores the critical role tires play in ensuring roadworthy vehicles and safeguarding motorists and pedestrians alike.