Part-worn tyres – top buying tips

Based on the person you talk to, worn tyres can be a fantastic savings or risky bet. Therefore, we’ve come up with some guidelines

You might have noticed ads advertising tyres that are worn but not damaged available at the roadside and wondered what they exactly? For some, they’re an affordable and simple way to get new rubber for their vehicle, but to others, they’re dangerous, or risky, to think about.

Part-worn tyres look exactly like you’d expect them to be – tyres which have not yet been used. They are typically being sold by scrap sellers or other companies dealing with second-hand vehicles or write-offs, since the sale of tires that are old are considered a method to earn some extra money on the side. If a seller is scrapping cars, they may attempt to salvage its tyres , too, if they feel they’re worthy of salvaging.

However, the opinion of what constitutes a salvageable tire will differ from person to person and a person’s “safe one could be considered to be dangerous by someone other. The purchase of a tyre that is worn out the same as buying a second hand electronic item. You aren’t entitled to a refund in the event of a problem in it. If you are involved in an accident which can be blamed on the fit of worn tyres, you won’t be able to claim a legal recourse to seek compensation.

The sole reason to purchasing tyres that are worn out is to save the cost. If you’re aware of the background of the tyres that you’re considering (maybe someone you know has rubber from track days that they don’t need anymore for instance) It’s an extremely safe option to purchase, however the truth is that you’re very unlikely to know the kind of history that is associated with a worn tyre.

The quality assurance standards among the vendors who sell partially worn tyres is likely to be inconsistent at most. Certain vendors won’t be concerned about things like damage to the tread or sidewalls like others.

If you’re convinced that used tyres is the best way to start, the first thing we’d suggest is to buy the most well-known brand, as at least you’ll know the tyre you purchase is constructed according to high the highest standards of quality. We’d recommend buying pair of tyres in order to have two tyres on the same axle, which should theoretically correspond. If you’re buying just one tyre, it’s highly likely that you’ll be unable to find one that’s compatible with the three others on your vehicle in regards to tread wear.

What to look for in part worn tyres?

Tire tread wear

Wear on the tread is the most important aspect to check. If the tyre is new and hasn’t been used, it should be able to have plenty of miles out of it. If shoulders are worn out, or the tread is uneven or uneven tread, then who’s to say that you aren’t going to be paying after a few months if your car is unable to pass it’s MoT since the tires have worn?

New tyres come with 8mm of tread. However, many safety and regulatory agencies and outlets recommend replacing your tyres as soon as you have 3mm left of tread. Anything less than that isn’t worth a second thought Even the tread is higher over this amount, if it’s not uniformly worn across the tyre, it’s better to find a different one.

Tyre sidewall damage

When the tread seems not a problem and the tread is not slipping, it’s time for a check of the sidewalls. If the tyres came off of a vehicle that’s had an incident (again what do you tell whether they’ve been involved or not? ) If so, there’s a good chance that the tyres could be damaged during the collision. Maybe bodywork came in contact with tyres or the forces from the side have caused the sidewall to be damaged.

However, the sidewalls are prone to damage through poor parking. Any scrapes, cuts or loose rubber that are visible on the sidewalls may be an indication of damages to the tyre’s design so make sure you check on the outside of your tyre to ensure an even appearance at the inside of the sidewall.

Tyre repairs

Another issue concerns repaired tyres. If a tyre is damaged by an injury caused by a screw, nail or any other sharp object that has pierced the tread, it is possible to repair it by using a rubber plug which seals the tread to prevent leaks.

There’s nothing wrong with these repairs. However, in the event that the tread has been punctured, there could be an injury to the belts which allow the tyres to keep their shape. Some tyres can’t be repaired and might be restricted in the maximum speed they can be rated for. Also, look at the inside carcass for any damage. If you’re doing your homework and thorough, it’s worth to avoid tyres which are damaged in any way to them, in or out.

Do you need to buy tyres that are worn in part?

It is a fact that worn tyres can be risky even in the ideal case. With no history or risk of failure it is possible to take your life as well as the lives of your loved ones into your hands. A possible savings in the short term could cost you a lot later on.

If you’re thinking of purchasing a set of car tyres that are used but not worn, follow these easy steps to ensure you have the best chance of getting the best bargain.

Part-worn tyres – best buying suggestions:

1. Shop with a reputable vendor.

2. Find out all possible about the background and development of the tyre.

3. Make sure you buy tyres from top brands.

4. Buy in pairs of tyres so that the tyres of each axle of your vehicle coincide.

5. Examine the tread depth and look for any uneven wear.

6. Inspect the carcass of the tire inside and out for repair or damage.

7. If you are unsure do not buy.