It is the question we get asked more than any other at the workshop. The honest answer is that it depends on the vehicle, how much you drive and how long you are keeping it.
When part-worn makes sense
A good part-worn tyre is the cheapest sensible way to get legal, safe rubber back on a vehicle. It tends to be the right call when:
- the car is older, or you are planning to sell or scrap it in the next year or two
- it is a second car or a runabout that does low mileage
- you need to replace a single tyre and match the tread depth on the other side of the axle
- you need to get back on the road today without spending more than you have to
The part-worn tyres on our racks typically carry around 5mm to 8mm of tread. A new tyre starts at roughly 8mm, so many of them have most of their useful life left.
When new is worth it
New tyres cost more up front, but you get the full tread depth, the longest life, and a tyre whose history is not in question. New usually makes more sense when:
- you are keeping the vehicle for several years
- you cover high mileage, so tread disappears quickly
- the vehicle carries heavy loads or tows regularly
- you want a specific brand or pattern across all four corners
What the law says about part-worn tyres
Part-worn tyres sold in the UK have to meet a set of legal requirements. Among them:
- at least 2mm of tread across the full width and the whole way around
- the words PART-WORN permanently marked on the sidewall
- no cuts, lumps, bulges or exposed cords
Every part-worn tyre we sell is also inflated and pressure tested before it goes on the rack. Anything that does not pass is not sold. You can read more about how we handle them on our part-worn tyres page.
Pairs matter either way
Whichever you choose, try to keep matching tyres across each axle. Two tyres of the same pattern and similar tread depth make the car brake and corner evenly. We will always look for a matching pair or set when the stock allows.
Still not sure?
Ring us on 01823 662777 with your tyre size and tell us a bit about the vehicle. We will tell you what we would do if it were our own car, and what we have in stock in both new and part-worn.
