What Are Part Worn Tyres & Should You Buy Them?
When we talk about the maintenance of a car, one of the crucial aspects is choosing the right set of tyres. Part-worn tyres also known as used tyres, which have been used before but still have more than the legal tread depth limit on them, this become the popular choice for many drivers. They offer a budget-friendly option to buy premium tyres at affordable prices but there is no safety guarantee.
There are more affordable options you have such as budget tyres that are brand new. Many tyre manufacturers offer good-budget tyres that offer better safety than used tyres such as Continental Tyres Corby.
In this blog post, we are going to share a comprehensive guide on part-worn tyres and answer whether you should go for part-worn tyres or go for budget tyres.
What Are Part Worn Tyres?
Part-worn tyres are used tyres which have been used by someone before and remain in a condition deemed fit for use. The major difference between new tyres and used tyres is their wear and history. While new tyres come with a full lifespan ahead, the part-worn tyres already lose some rubber and have less lifespan.
Each year, it is estimated that over 5.5 million used tyres are bought in the UK which is around 10% of all tyres sold every year.
The majority of part-worn tyres come in the UK from Germany. In Germany, the drivers adhere to the recommended winter tyre tread depth of 4mm and replace them before they reach the 1.6mm legal limit which is the same as in the UK.
How Much Are Part Worn Tyres?
One of the major factors why people are tempted to purchase part-worn tyres is their cost. In general, used tyres are more cheaper than brand-new tyres. But the price may vary depending on the brand, type, size and the tread depth left.
On average, used tyres may cost about half or even less than their original price. But the key thing is to balance the cost with safety and quality when choosing a part-worn tyre.
How Long Do Part Worn Tyres Last?
Brand-new tyres can last anywhere from four to five years depending on how you use your tyres, but the part-worn tyres have a much shorter lifespan because they are already been used by others and have thin tread depth. Their exact duration will be difficult to tell because it depends on their initial condition and how well they are maintained.
It is important to keep this in mind because these factors will help to avoid frequent replacements which might not be worth the initial cost benefits. Always remember the cheapest option isn’t always the best one. It’s better to invest a little bit more in tyres to get better quality and safety.
Are Part Worn Tyres Legal?
The part-worn tyres are second-hand tyres which are legal and widely used option in the UK. But, their safety largely depends on the specific regulations and the condition of the tyres when they are sold.
As per the Motor Vehicle Tyres Regulations 1994, which is part of the Consumer Protection Act, there are strict rules for selling used tyres. The legal tread depth requirements are set to ensure consumer safety and product reliability.
In the legal requirements, the used tyres there not compromise the structural integrity, should pass the inflation test, have visible original grooves with a minimum depth of 2mm across the tread tread and have specific markings.
Where To Buy Part Worn Tyres?
Purchasing the part-worn tyres from a reliable source is important to get the best quality tyres. You can purchase these used tyres from tyre shops, online retailers or specialised tyre dealers.
It is important to buy your used tyres from a place that has a good reputation for safe and quality part-worn tyres. Always check the tyres or have them checked by an experienced tyre specialist before buying.
Some tips to remember when buying part-worn tyres:
- Examine the Tread Depth: As you know the legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but is recommended to purchase part-worn tyres which have more tread depth for better longevity and safety. Most of the tyre experts recommend replacing your tyres when they reach the tread depth of 3mm.
- Check for Legal Compliance: Your tyres don’t have any cuts, lumps or bulges and the original tread must be visible with a depth of at least 2mm across the full tyre tread.
- Age of the Tyre: You can also check the age of the tyre by looking at the date code on the sidewall. Tyres which are older than five to eight years need to be ignored because they are now harder and at risk of cark in the rubber.
- Inflation Test: Check if the tyres can pass the inflation test before purchasing them. It is also the legal requirement to pass the inflation test to sell used Car Tyres in Corby.
- Look for Damage: Check if there are any signs of damage such as bulges, cuts or punctures. Check them from the outside and inside as well if possible, as internal damage isn’t visible from the outside.