Tyres are the most common dangerous defect found in MOT tests, according to a leading expert. Dan Joyce, operations director and head of the MOT programme for Kwik Fit, said tyres "often" fail the annual assessment.
Common tyre failures
Tyres can fail a DVSA MOT check for several safety concerns, including insufficient tread depth, lumps in the rubber, or damaged cords. Tyre issues could also receive a "dangerous" defect report, which would immediately make a vehicle illegal to drive on UK roads.
Expert advice
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Dan said: "Tyres. Tyres are the most common dangerous defect found in the MOT. Drivers need to remember that a modern car may be fitted with lots of advanced safety technology, but the only things connecting the car to the road are the contact patches of the four tyres.
"Drivers should regularly check their tyre tread depth, pressure and look for uneven wear. It’s not only the key safety check drivers can make, keeping tyres at the correct pressure and properly aligned will maximise their life, improve fuel efficiency and so save money in the long run."
Cost of replacement
With four tyres on each car, the average price of replacing them can slowly add up if multiple are damaged. Cheaper budget options usually cost between £40 and £70, but most road users will want to opt for mid-range options which can cost around £100 per tyre. However, total costs can depend on the make and model, with performance or 4x4 tyres likely to exceed £300 per tyre.
MOT failure statistics
According to the RAC, tyres are among the most common reasons behind an MOT fail on UK roads. Tyre issues were the fourth most common issue, accounting for 7.7% of failures on UK assessments. This was just beaten by brake problems (10%), suspension woes (13%) and lighting and signalling failures (18.9%).
The RAC previously explained: "A car can have all the safety systems in the world, but if the four bits of rubber connecting it to the road aren’t up to scratch, you could have a disaster on your hands.
"You should check your tyres regularly, not just at MOT time – yet they count for the fourth most popular failure rate for the annual test."
