A new study has revealed that a large proportion of motorists have been leaving themselves open to hefty fines, licence points, and even disqualification by neglecting basic tyre maintenance.
A nationwide survey found that 37 per cent of drivers have admitted delaying tyre replacements until their car’s annual MOT test signals potential failure — meaning many could be driving on illegal or unsafe tyres for months at a time.
The research has now painted a troubling picture of complacency among motorists, with the findings suggesting that drivers are effectively gambling with both their safety and their wallets.
Between annual MOT inspections, thousands of motorists could be operating vehicles with defective tyres, which is a criminal offence that carries severe penalties.
The updated framework, which applies to both private licence holders and professional drivers of buses and lorries, aims to offer clinicians, who test whether motorists are fit to drive, stricter guidance.
Despite the clear risks, 40 per cent of drivers who postpone tyre purchases said they only act once an MOT test raises the issue.
Another 23 per cent admitted they’ve never seriously considered the dangers of worn tyres.
But the experts have warned that driving illegal tyres is not a minor infraction, with each defective tyre resulting in a £2,500 fine and three penalty points.
With four substandard tyres, that could mean £10,000 in fines and 12 points, marking enough to trigger an “automatic” driving ban, even for those with previously clean licences.
Newly qualified drivers face even harsher consequences, as just two illegal tyres could see them accumulate six points, which is enough to have their licence revoked entirely under the UK’s probationary driving rules.
Garry Mantle, Technical Trainer at Protyre, said: “If your tyres are cut, damaged or worn, they could create a risk to your safety on the road and, if you’re pulled over by the police, you could be fined, get points on your licence, and you could even lose your licence.
“We’re urging people to think about their tyres between MOTs. Tyre safety is easy to check and should be on drivers’ minds all year round.”
Protyre has now urged drivers to adopt its ACT simple safety check routine, which stands for Air pressure, Condition and Tread.
In the UK, motorcycle tyres must meet specific legal requirements to ensure safety and compliance. Key points include:
- Tread Depth: Motorcycles over 50cc the minimum tread depth is 1mm across the central threequarters of the tyre. Motorcycles up to 50cc must have visible tread pattern over the whole tyre.
- Condition: Tyres must be free from cuts, bulges, or other damage that could compromise their structural integrity. They should also be properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
- MOT Compliance: During the MOT test, tyres must be assessed for tread depth and overall condition. If they fail to meet these standards, they may not be deemed roadworthy.
- Type Approval: Tyres must be of an appropriate type and have the correct speed and load ratings suitable for the motorcycle.
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