ATS Euromaster: Don’t cut corners with part-worn tyres

Financial pressures brought about by the current cost of living crisis make ‘buying cheap’ a temptation for vehicle owners faced with a raft of spiralling expenses, but ATS Euromaster urges motorists not to compromise on tyre safety, especially heading into the more hazardous winter months. The tyre and vehicle maintenance provider emphasises the importance of tyre safety at a time when consumer trends suggest that an increasing number of drivers are attempting to save money by opting for part-worn tyres for their vehicles instead of new.

While understanding why part-worns may be tempting to some, ATS Euromaster stresses that fitting these tyres is “not only false economy, but also (and more importantly) potentially dangerous to the vehicle owner and other road users.”

ATS Euromaster is emphatic that safety is one aspect that should never be compromised. Explaining its issue with used tyres, the company states that “part-worn tyres are not as safe” and offer “diminished tread reducing grip on the road.” It adds that this is especially dangerous in wet or icy conditions with an increased risk of aquaplaning in wet weather. Tread depth can also affect braking performance and handling of a vehicle. Furthermore, ATS Euromaster notes that damage is hard to detect in part-worn tyres and they will not be as puncture resistant as new tyres.

Fines, points & insurance woes

The legal tyre tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre for cars. The tread must meet this minimum depth across its entire circumference. Those caught with illegal or ‘bald’ tyres, could face a fine of £2500 per tyre, so potentially £10,000 if all four are not up to the legal standard. Penalty points are also applicable, with three points per illegal tyre on a driver’s licence, which could lead to disqualification. “This can make insurance claims invalid. So, there is a lot at stake, with loss of life or injury being the most devastating,” comments ATS Euromaster.

RoSPA, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, recommends changing the tyre once the tread level wears down to 3mm. ATS Euromaster notes that this is 1.4mm above the legal minimum but is “based on various studies conducted into tread depth and the impact it can have on road safety.” The company’s technicians recommend that drivers check their tyres once every couple of weeks or at least once a month.

ATS Euromaster is currently the only tyre and vehicle maintenance company with the RoSPA gold award for safety; an accreditation held for eight consecutive years.