A new study has revealed that a large proportion of motorists have been leaving themselves open to hefty fines, licence points, and even disqualification by neglecting basic tyre maintenance.
A nationwide survey found that 37 per cent of drivers have admitted delaying tyre replacements until their car’s annual MOT test signals potential failure — meaning many could be driving on illegal or unsafe tyres for months at a time.
The research has now painted a troubling picture of complacency among motorists, with the findings suggesting that drivers are effectively gambling with both their safety and their wallets.
Between annual MOT inspections, thousands of motorists could be operating vehicles with defective tyres, which is a criminal offence that carries severe penalties.
Despite the clear risks, 40 per cent of drivers who postpone tyre purchases said they only act once an MOT test raises the issue.
Another 23 per cent admitted they’ve never seriously considered the dangers of worn tyres.
But the experts have warned that driving illegal tyres is not a minor infraction, with each defective tyre resulting in a £2,500 fine and three penalty points.
With four substandard tyres, that could mean £10,000 in fines and 12 points, marking enough to trigger an “automatic” driving ban, even for those with previously clean licences.
Newly qualified drivers face even harsher consequences, as just two illegal tyres could see them accumulate six points, which is enough to have their licence revoked entirely under the UK’s probationary driving rules.
Drivers could receive a £2,500 fine and three penalty points for each incorrect tyre
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PAGarry Mantle, Technical Trainer at Protyre, said: “If your tyres are cut, damaged or worn, they could create a risk to your safety on the road and, if you’re pulled over by the police, you could be fined, get points on your licence, and you could even lose your licence.
“We’re urging people to think about their tyres between MOTs. Tyre safety is easy to check and should be on drivers’ minds all year round.”
Protyre has now urged drivers to adopt its ACT simple safety check routine, which stands for Air pressure, Condition and Tread.
These quick, regular checks can help motorists stay safe and avoid unnecessary fines.
One of the easiest ways to check tyre tread depth is with a 20p coin, the expert explained.
By inserting the coin into the tyre’s main grooves, motorists can quickly assess whether their tread meets the legal standard.
If the outer band of the coin is visible, the tread may be below the required 1.6mm minimum depth and the tyre should be inspected by a professional immediately.
If the band remains hidden, the tread is likely still legal. The test takes seconds, costs nothing, and could save drivers thousands in penalties as well as help prevent a serious accident.
To encourage safer habits, Protyre has revealed it will offer free tyre safety inspections at all of its 184 locations across the UK.
These checks include professional assessments of tread depth, air pressure and general tyre condition, all of which ensure the tyres meet UK regulations.
Mr Mantle added that waiting for the annual MOT to discover tyre issues is a risky mistake: “Tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road. Checking them regularly should be as routine as filling up with fuel.”
The research has been released to coincide with Tyre Safety Month, an annual campaign designed to remind drivers that tyre care is not just a once-a-year concern.
Experts warned that wet winter roads, potholes and temperature changes can accelerate wear, making regular checks even more critical as the colder months approach.
With millions of drivers admitting to putting off tyre maintenance, the message from safety experts is clear: don’t wait for the MOT.
