Drivers urged to check for this symbol as vehicle's insurance could be invalidated
Motorists have been urged to perform a quick check of their vehicle as they could be unwittingly driving with 'defective' tyres.
An investigation by Auto Express revealed that some tyres categorised as 'part-worn' are being sold without the legally required markings to indicate they are second-hand.
The study also discovered that in some instances, the used tyres were being sold without undergoing proper inspection and showing signs of significant internal damage.
The motoring group cautioned that defective tyres can result in handling problems or blow-outs, which could put yourself or other road users at risk, and could render your insurance void.
UK law mandates that a part-worn tyre must display a 'PART WORN' mark in uppercase letters at least 4mm high.
This mark must be permanently and clearly applied to the tyre, excluding hot branding or any other form of cutting into it.
Another requirement is that the part worn mark must be immediately adjacent to every approval mark (E-/e-mark) on the tyre. The legal obligation is outlined in the Motor Vehicle Tyres (Safety) Regulations 1994, under the Consumer Protection Act.
Chris Rosamund, consumer editor at Auto Express, stated: "If anyone sells you a used tyre for use on the road, it is classed as a "part-worn" under the regulations, and therefore must be inspected and stamped."
He issued a warning that your insurance could be invalidated as a consequence: "Your insurance could be invalidated if it could be proved that a tyre was defective and caused an accident.
"Whether it was part-worn when sold to you would be purely incidental at that point. You could equally be driving on defective tyres that you damaged yourself."
A recent TyreSafe investigation into dubious tyre sellers revealed that a shocking 94% of part-worn tyres were being sold illegally.
Alarmingly, over six in 10 of these tyres were found to be dangerous, with Mr Rosamond highlighting the near absence of law enforcement in this area.
He emphasised the critical nature of the issue, stating: "While you might not buy potentially dodgy used tyres, your life could be negatively impacted by someone else who has. It's time for the Government to step in."
Auto Express has reached out to the Government, advocating for an officially endorsed accreditation system for tyre retailers to boost safety standards.
The campaign also includes calls for enhanced enforcement and supervision, suggesting a role for the DVSA to support the already stretched local Trading Standards offices.
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