Should I purchase new or part-worn tyres?

Eventually, you’ll need to replace your tyres regardless of the model of car you have. Once your tyres become dangerously worn, you’ll notice vibrations while you’re driving, strange noises, a lack of grip and punctures. Depending on who you ask, part-worn tyres will be considered a cost-effective replacement or a dangerous risk. Below, we explore whether you should purchase new or part-worn tyres.

What are part-worn tyres?

Part-worn tyres are tyres that have already been used. They’re usually sold by scrap merchants, dealerships or other sources that are looking to make a little extra money on the side when they dispose of a car. If they think the tyres still have a little more life in them, they’ll try and informally sell them on. Ultimately, each part-worn tyre will be different. You might be able to find one that’s barely been used, or you might be offered one that’s potentially lethal.

The best places to purchase tyres

For the safest possible tyres, you should buy new tyres from a reputable seller. By buying Michelin tyres, you can have peace of mind that you’ll have the optimal grip in most weather conditions. If you do buy part-worn tyres, you should make sure you’re using a trustworthy seller and check the tyres to see if they’re in good condition. To measure the tread, for instance, you could carry out the penny test to get a good idea of the condition they’re in. 

Price comparison

Part-worn tyres will naturally cost less than new tyres for a one-off purchase. However, it’s worth factoring in how often you’ll need to replace your part-worn tyres. If the tread falls below 1.6mm, you’ll have to instantly replace the worn tyre again: this can quickly add up over time. On the other hand, new tyres in the UK have a tread of 8mm, giving them plenty of years of life. What’s more, if you’re caught driving with illegal tyres the price could rise even further: you could be fined up to £2500 for each tyre. 

Is buying part-worn tyres safe?

The safety of a part-worn tyre will depend on the specific tyre you’ve found. However, without the correct tread and internal structure, the chance of losing grip on the road increases significantly. You can check a tyre before you buy, but there may be internal problems you won’t notice. The best way to stay safe is by avoiding part-worn tyres completely. 

Purchasing new tyres can feel like an unnecessary hassle. But by going for new, reputable tyres, you can actually save money over time, and you’ll be calm in the knowledge that you’re as safe as possible on the road.