Thinking of buying part worn tyres? the biggest thing you have to remind yourself is that these are indeed second hand tyres that more than likely have been used on another car or van. The main source and market leader of these used tyres are from the coninental tyre companies from Europe.

There can be common issues with a part worn tyre, this is mainly due to them being sold with 50% less tread on them when compared to new tyres. They usually are found to have at least a few thousand kilometres behind them too. With this noted it must be understood that part worn tyres are still used tyres.

Please exercise awareness when going ahead with any potential purchase of used tyres. It must be said however, that in a majority of situations that these part worn tyres will indeed be perfectly road worthy but its always a good idea to ask as many questions to whoever you are buying them from, whether its the garage or a member of public. It is best to identify any damage that could become unrepairable in the future.

Due to this type of tyre being second hand, their asking price is relatively lower than new tyres. This of course, is possibly the number one factor that these cheap part worn tyres are so enticing to the buying driver of the vehicle. It can be this attractive price that enables buyers to continue to keep their car running and road legal. The vehicle industry (most notably the tyre companies) proceeds to warn every one of the dangers of used tyres, however both sides of the coin must be dutifully considered before a legal decision was made.

The trading standard office’s viewpoint on the matter is one of which that they will continue to make drivers aware of any dangers they must think about proir to any purchase. This makes sense aslong as the driver is aware the difference in health & safety between a tyre with tread at its legal limit next to a tyre that is half worn but still has all its other functions in perfect working order.

If your heart is set on buying a second hand tyre, then always get a demonstration from a professional at the garage before hand. Topics to cover would be tyre inflation, bumps or bulges that may be visible on the tyre. One last thing to remeber is to check for signs of aging, if you see these signs then it is advised that you dont go ahead with any purchase.

Part worn tyres and the legalities involved

The trade of second hand tyres is growing, but this is only possible if the following legal guidlines are adhered to:

* Cuts longer than 25mm that effect the cord or ply of the tyre * Damages that has went unrepaired which has penetrated the tyre * Ply or cord that has been exposed whether its from the internal or external part of the tyre * Tears, bumps, swollen rubber bubbles

Part worn tyres must also have official markings so the buyer is aware of what they are getting, these markings must:

* Display all the design and type markings, including things such as load and speed ratings. * Display the words “PART WORN” in small capital letter (4mm in height) * If they are to be sold on the rim then this must be internally inspected

Hopefully once you have digested the above information you will be able to make your own mind up regarding part worn tyres and whether or not used car tyres are for your.