Can MOTs Fail on Tyres?

MOTs are one of those things all of us dread, as for some it can involve a hefty garage repair bill. In the UK, many vehicles fail their MOT first time round, but can a car fail a MOT on tyres?

To answer your question, yes, a car can fail a MOT test on tyres. In the UK, around 10% of MOT fails were due to tyres, one of the easiest parts of your vehicle to check and replace! So why are they failing?

Reasons a car can fail a MOT due to tyres

Tyre tread depth

Tyres with a tread depth lower than 1.6mm is illegal and will result in a MOT fail. Not only will it result in a fail, illegal tread depth can result in you getting points on your driving licence and a fine of up to £2500 per tyre! Before you rush off to MOT, get them checked!

If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, you can use a 20p coin. Place the coin in the tread grooves of in three different places on the tyre. If you can see any part of the outer band on the coin, your tread tyre is too low and needs to be replaced.

Using the wrong tyres

Another common reason for failing a MOT test is if your car is found to be using the wrong tyres. You should be using tyres that are the correct size for your vehicle and those that are specified in your vehicle handbook. Check this by comparing the tyre size printed on the sidewall, against the front and rear sizes stated in your handbook.

If you have recently suffered from a flat tyre and are using a space saver or lightweight tyre you need to replace this for your MOT test. These tyres are only designed to get you home or to a garage following the damage. Not many people realise that they are not suitable for prolonged use.

For a full guide on a MOT checklist click here! https://mycarneedsa.com/blog/what-is-checked-on-an-mot

Tyre condition

During the MOT test, the inspector will examine the general condition of our tyres looking out for any serious bulges, lumps or cuts that can cause you to fail. You should be checking your tyre’s condition on a regular basis for any damage. Signs of tyre damage to look out for:

·Visible signs of the ply and cord

·Lumps

·Bulges

·Cuts

·Punctures

·Tears

If you find any of the above, you need to contact a tyre specialist immediately.

One of the parts you need to replace most on a car is its tyres, and if you need help finding somewhere to buy and fit your new tyres at a reasonable price, get quotes from garages in your area with MyCarNeedsA.com https://mycarneedsa.com/tyres-wheels-and-tracking