Second hand tyres v New Tyres: Comparison

Author Name – Jack Underwood

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There are a number of tyre safety guides, which warn you about the major risks that occur when purchasing second hand tyres. Within this article, we will be looking at the differences between part worn tyres and new tyres. If you are looking to purchase new tyres for your vehicle, then this can be done online to be fitted at your local National Tyres branch, alternatively, we also offer a mobile tyre-fitting process.

part worn tyres

What are part worn tyres?

Part worn tyres are tyres that have been used on another vehicle and then sold on to you. These could have been potentially been used on a number of other vehicles. Realistically you are unlikely to know the history of the tyre if you decide to go for part worn tyres. Despite part worn tyres not being illegal, there are specific principal requirements that need to be passed to legally sell part worn tyres. However, many part worn tyres are sold illegally and when compared to new tyres, they have not been stringently tested and inspected.

What is the difference between a new tyre and a part-worn tyre?

On average a new tyre has around 9mm of tyre tread when fitted to your vehicle. The tyre becomes illegal when the tyre tread reaches 1.6mm, however, we strongly recommend that tyres are changed when the tyre tread reaches 3mm. Bald tyres are illegal and can result in disastrous circumstances.

In a study conducted by Tyre Safe, a well-respected tyre charity, it was found that 94% of part worn tyres that were inspected by Tyre Safe were being sold illegally.

Depending on your driving style and road conditions, it can vary how long tyres will last from new. However, it is estimated that the average lifespan of a tyre is around 20,000 miles. In a 2021 study by Nimblefins, they found out that the average UK driver drives their vehicle for around 7,400 miles per year. This means that it is possible for the average driver's tyres to potentially last up to three years. However, regular tyre checks and tyre maintenance are vital to ensure you get the maximum lifespan out of your tyres.

Will more expensive tyres save me money in the long run?

Unfortunately, whenever you need a new tyre, it rarely comes at an appropriate time, we understand that is it an inconvenience. New tyres can be costly, especially premium tyres however we urge UK drivers to not sway and purchase part worn tyres, the consequences could be catastrophic. Here at National Tyres, we offer a Payment Assist Plan which requires no credit checks and helps you spread the cost monthly, allowing you to purchase new tyres for your vehicle at an affordable rate. We also offer excellently priced mid-range and budget tyres which will be much safer for you and last longer than purchasing tyres that are part worn.

Is it cheaper in the long run to buy new tyres over used ones?

Yes. Even if you purchase part worn tyres which are from a premium brand, you will still save more money over time if you purchase a new tyre that is a budget or a mid-range. Part worn tyres will not last as long as new tyres and you can have no certainty over the history and safety of that tyre. It is important to note that car insurance companies will not pay out if you have purchased tyres that are part worn. In a study conducted by Auto Express, they found that there were 6 million unsafe part worn tyres on UK roads.

Buying new tyres online

Here at National, we stock a wide range of new tyres at affordable prices. We have been in the tyre business for over 50 years and have around 240 branches within the UK, ensuring there is bound to be a branch local to you. If you want to purchase new tyres online, then please click on the button below.

Related: Order new tyres

Remember, if you are on a budget, why not consider a budget or mid-range tyre? You could even look at a premium tyre and use our Payment Assist Plan where you can spread the cost monthly? To book online, please make sure you have your vehicle registration number or tyre size to hand, just to make sure we can find the right tyre for you. If you have any questions at all about part worn tyres or what new tyre you would like for your car, then feel free to give us a call or get in touch online via our live chat function.

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