Millions of motorists are failing their MOTs annually due to fundamental tyre defects, with fresh Freedom of Information data showing that 3.1 million individual tyre faults resulted in MOT failures between July 2023 and July 2024.
Specialists at Scrap Car Comparison are now urging drivers to carry out one straightforward home inspection, which could mean the difference between success and failure in the test. October figures from YouGov showed that 60% of motorists confessed to only changing their tyres when absolutely essential, indicating they may be driving on dangerous, deteriorated tyres unknowingly.
While tread depth is frequently discussed, many drivers neglect to consider their tyres' age and the rubber's overall state, which can also create safety concerns.
Matt Clamp, customer service manager at Scrap Car Comparison, said: "MOT tests are something that can often fill car owners with dread. Tyres are an element of a vehicle that owners can easily check themselves, so there's little reason why a car should fail for these faults.
"However, tyre perishing is something that is often overlooked. Even cars with low mileage aren't immune to this, which often catches owners out. In fact, perishing can actually be accelerated due to inactivity."
While it's common knowledge that MOT tests scrutinise a tyre's tread and depth, as well as any cuts and bulges, MOT testers are also tasked with looking for signs of age-related deterioration, such as cracking and degradation of the sidewalls and tread. Evidence of perishing can result in a minor warning, like an advisory, but could also lead to a failure if the level of degradation is more severe.
Tyres deteriorate over time due to a variety of factors, including natural ageing, wear and tear, and exposure to elements like UV rays and heat. This causes the rubber compounds to weaken and become brittle, leading to both cracking and an increased risk of bulges in the sidewall, as well as a loss of road grip.
Incorrect wheel alignment, improper tyre pressures, and poor driving habits such as aggressive acceleration and braking can also hasten this degradation.
Contrary to popular belief, tyres that have seen less use don't necessarily last longer, as inactivity can actually speed up the rate of perishing. Regular use activates and disperses protective chemicals in the rubber compounds, which doesn't occur if the tyres remain static, thus accelerating the ageing process.
Every tyre will have a DOT code on the sidewall, which indicates the date of manufacture and can be a good indicator of whether it may be time for a replacement. The last four digits of the DOT code indicate the date of manufacture, with the first two digits showing the calendar week of production and the final two representing the year - for example, 1524 would mean the 15th week of 2024.
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As a general rule of thumb:
Any tyres over five years old should be checked annually by a specialist
Tyres of 10 years old or more should be replaced, regardless of tread condition
Though five years is the age at which perishing is most likely to occur, tyres that have been exposed to high temperatures and UV rays, or have been left unused for long periods, are likely to perish faster. As well as checking DOT codes, vehicle owners should look out for visible cracks and fissures, which can often appear as a 'cracked eggshell' texture.
Matt advised: "Getting in the habit of regularly checking your tyres can help to avoid any last-minute panics before your MOT, and also help your tyres last longer. Perishing can occur faster if tyres aren't inflated to the correct pressure, so checking this regularly could help avoid the need to fork out for new tyres as often. If possible, storing your car in a garage or out of reach of the sun will also improve the longevity of your tyres, but as this isn't achievable for most drivers, just making sure you're using your vehicle regularly will be beneficial."