The Motor Ombudsman has unveiled its ‘WORN-WARN’ tyre safety campaign, shining a spotlight on fitting part-worn tyres.
Launched at the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, the online and social media awareness drive is designed to highlight the risks associated with used tyres. As these carry an unknown history and potentially hidden structural damage, they can present potential dangers for drivers.
The launch of the latest initiative, backed by charity TyreSafe, comes in response to a survey of 2,000 UK adults by The Motor Ombudsman. This found that 31% of those polled would consider buying part-worn tyres if their vehicle’s tyres needed replacing. The figure which rises to 47% amongst the 25 to 34 age group.
When asked about what the primary motives would be for those who would opt for second-hand tyres, 67% explained that saving money compared to when buying new, would be front and centre. The study equally revealed that cost-of-living pressures have made it more likely for 88% of people to turn to second-hand purchases to make already-stretched household budgets go even further.
Other key motivations cited by respondents for going down the route of part-worn tyres was the fact that they would offer a temporary solution until they could afford brand-new tyres (37%), whilst a similar proportion (36%) explained that they would benefit from the convenience of used tyres often being immediately available for fitting.
The rules on part-worn tyres
Sellers of part-worn tyres are subject to strict rules, including that they must be labelled as ‘PART-WORN’ on the sidewall to clearly show their condition. Nevertheless, 43% of prospective buyers polled were unaware of this requirement, further reinforcing the dangers of the public buying such a critical safety component without knowing to look out for this crucial stamp.
Similarly, for consumers considering buying part-worn tyres, being able to read the ‘Department of Transport’ (DOT) code on the sidewall – the equivalent of its ‘date of birth’ which shows the age of a tyre, is just as essential, as it may appear in reasonable condition to the untrained eye, but at the same time be beyond its intended lifespan.
The research found however, that 69% of respondent admitted to not knowing what the DOT code meant, and would likely take what was said by the seller at face value.
Paul Brown, General Manager of the Tyre Division at The Motor Ombudsman-accredited Lindleys Autocentres garage group, and spokesperson for the ‘WORN-WARN’ campaign said: “As motorists continue to face increasing financial pressures, it can be tempting to cut back on vital car maintenance, as the recent Motor Ombudsman study has found. However, spending money on tyres should never be compromised, and buying new at a reputable fitter should always be the first choice regardless of budget, meaning consumers are not taking a gamble when it comes to a tyre’s condition.”
Brown added: “The ‘WORN-WARN’ campaign also provides garages and workshops, like ourselves, with a brand-new suite of eye-catching assets and tools to help educate motorists on what to look out for when buying and maintaining tyres – a subject that should not be overlooked.”
Price should not factor in safety
Speaking to Auto Repair Focus at the UK Garage and Bodyshop Event, Brown commented: “Prices are rising and tyres are an easy option when looking to buy something cheaper. But the message we are trying to get across is that the tyres on each corner of a vehicle only have a footprint-size contact patch with the road. Tread depth is important, but this is not the only important thing to consider.
“Drivers need to be informed about the potential hazards of part-worn tyres, and perhaps the benefits of moving to a budget new-tyre option where you know its history. Price can drive purchase decisions, but safety should never be driven by price.”
Stuart Lovatt, Chair at TyreSafe, added: “Tyres are the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road, but millions of part-worn tyres enter the market every year with an unknown history, hidden structural damage, or inadequate inspection by either sellers or vehicle owners. They may appear great value on the surface, but they can unfortunately compromise braking performance, increase the chance of blowouts, and put road users at risk of serious harm.
“We are delighted to be backing this valuable campaign by The Motor Ombudsman, which works perfectly in tandem with our continued work in educating consumers about making informed and safe choices, understanding the risks that used tyres can bring, and ultimately urging them to think twice before cutting corners.”
