Part-Worn Tyres – Why Pellon Tyres Sells New Tyres

Part-Worn Tyres – Why Pellon Tyres Sells New Tyres

Here at Pellon Tyres and Autocentre in Halifax, we do not sell part-worn tyres.

After many years in the tyre trade, my preference remains to supply new tyres suitable for the customer’s vehicle and budget.

That does not mean every part-worn tyre is illegal. They can be sold legally when the relevant requirements are met. However, a low price or a reasonable-looking tread pattern is not enough to establish that a tyre complies.

What are part-worn tyres?

Part-worn tyres are previously used tyres offered for sale again.

Their remaining tread, condition and previous use can vary considerably. Looking at the outside alone does not tell you everything about their history or structural condition.

What rules apply?

The Motor Vehicle Tyres (Safety) Regulations 1994 set requirements for supplying part-worn tyres.

These include requirements relating to condition, testing, tread depth and markings. Among the main points:

• The original tread grooves must remain at least 2mm deep across the full tread width and around the entire circumference.

• The tyre must pass the prescribed inflation test.

• It must not have prohibited structural damage, exposed cords or unrepaired penetration damage.

• It must carry the required approval and other markings.

• “PART-WORN” must be permanently and legibly marked in uppercase letters at least 4mm high, without cutting or hot-branding.

Retreaded part-worn tyres have additional marking requirements. This is a summary rather than a complete seller’s compliance checklist.

Read the detailed Trading Standards guidance on part-worn tyres.

Is 2mm the same as the normal road-use limit?

No. The minimum tread requirement for selling a part-worn tyre differs from the usual 1.6mm road-use minimum for cars, which applies across the central three-quarters of the tread and around the circumference.

A tyre sold with only 2mm of tread has relatively little remaining tread above that road-use minimum.

Condition matters as well as depth: sufficient tread does not make a damaged tyre acceptable.

Does a cheaper price mean better value?

Not necessarily. Consider how much usable tread remains, the fitted price and how soon replacement may be needed.

I understand that motorists have to watch their spending. Here at Pellon, we can discuss new tyre options at different prices rather than assuming everyone wants a premium brand.

The important thing is choosing a suitable specification and understanding what you are buying.

Tyre safety advice for Halifax motorists

Whether you drive around Halifax, commute along the M62 or travel further afield, regularly check tyre pressures, tread and condition.

For more information, visit TyreSafe’s part-worn tyre advice page.

New tyres from Pellon

You can search for new tyres on the Pellon Tyres website and arrange fitting at our Halifax depot.

For advice about suitable tyres and availability, call 01422 351314 or 01422 362030.

Learn more about our garage on the Pellon Autocentre website.

If we have helped you, please consider leaving Pellon a Google review.

Written by Eric Roberts.