Can You Fail MOT On Tyres?

27^th June 2023

Every year, many vehicles fail their MOT test first time due to their tyres, with a staggering 2.4 million vehicles failing their MOT due to brake and tyre related issues each year. According to The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), a yearly average of 61% of dangerous defects were caused by tyres alone from the 1st April 2021 to 31st March 2022. So, are your tyres legal?

Take a look at the most common tyre faults which could cause you to fail your MOT test:

What if you use the wrong size tyres?

Using tyres that are the wrong size for your vehicle can result in an MOT fail. When fitting new tyres, you should consult your vehicle handbook to find the correct tyre size before buying new tyres. Your vehicle handbook may specify a different size for the front and rear tyres, but it is essential that the tyres fitted on the same axle are the same size.

How to check if your tyres are the right size

To check if the tyres fitted to your vehicle are the correct size, you can find the recommended tyre size in your vehicle handbook and check that this matches the size of your tyres. Your tyre size will be printed on the sidewall of your tyres.

What about tyres with different construction?

It is a legal MOT tyre requirement to only fit tyres that are the same construction to the same axle. For example, cross-ply and radial tyres must not be fitted to the same axle as this could result in you failing your MOT. If you are unsure of the structure of your tyres, contact a tyre specialist for guidance.

Should you avoid part-worn tyres?

When purchasing new tyres, it's recommended to buy brand new tyres as you avoid the risk of buying potentially dangerous tyres. Additionally, you are more likely to save money in the long run as part-worn tyres are likely to have a shorter life span.

Many Council Trading Standards have reported that a number of garages are selling part-worn tyres with incorrect labelling. Some other issues with part-worn tyres included:

Repairs not carried out in accordance with Non BS AU 159
Unrepaired penetration damage
Bead damage
Deep cuts or ply exposed
Run-flat damage

What should your tyre tread depth be?

Another MOT tyre rule states that driving on tyres with a tread depth lower than 1.6mm is illegal, and can result in a fine of £2,500 per illegal tyre. You can also receive points on your licence if you are caught driving on them. Unsurprisingly, tyre treads lower than this limit will also fail the MOT test.

How can you check your tyre tread depth?

You can check your tyre tread depth with a 20p coin. All you need to do is place the coin in the grooves of your tyre. If the outer band disappears, your tread depth is meeting the legal requirement. However, if the band is clearly visible - this indicates that your tread depth is below the legal limit and needs replacing.

You should check your tyre tread every three weeks to ensure it is above the legal limit and replace them when necessary. Here at The Tyre Group, we recommend that you replace your tyres at 3mm as from this point your gripping capabilities and resistance against aquaplaning are seriously affected.

What is TPMS?

Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) are electronic sensors in tyres, which alert the driver if the tyre pressure has become too high or too low. The TPMS will send a warning light to your dashboard to alert the driver of the tyre pressure issue - however, many people aren't aware that the TPMS is also checked as part of their MOT test. To avoid a TPMS MOT fail, ensure that your TMPS system is serviced when you next change your tyres.

What if your tyre sidewall is damaged?

If you suffer tyre damage at any point, regardless of whether your MOT test is due - you must have your tyres checked over by a specialist who will be able to determine the extent of the damage.

Signs of tyre damage include:

Lumps and bulges
Visible signs of the ply and cord
Cuts, punctures and tears

How can the Tyre Group help?

Still not sure whether your tyres meet the MOT tyre rules and standards needed to keep you safe on the road and pass your MOT test? Visit your local Tyre Group branch where our tyre specialists will inspect your tyres for free. For more information, contact our expect team today who will be happy to help.

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