This page gives information about the Motor Vehicle Tyres (Safety) Regulations 1994
It is an offence to supply a part worn tyre unless it is safe and properly marked.
Safety
A part worn tyre must not have:
Cuts longer than 25 millimetres or 10% of the section width of the tyre which are deep enough to reach the ply or cord;
lumps, bulges or tears caused by separation or failure of its structure;
internal or external exposed cord or ply.
On a part worn tyre:
the base of the grooves in the tyre's original tread pattern must be clearly visible
all grooves must be at least two millimetres deep
any repairs must be to the British Standard BSAU159e:1990.
Markings
A part worn tyre must:
show all the original marking for its type and design including speed rating and load index
be marked with the words PART WORN in capital letters at least four millimetres high. This marking must be permanent and legible and not be made by cutting or branding.
Any tyres sold on the rim should be internally inspected before sale.
This leaflet is not an authoritative statement of the law and is intended for guidance only, reference should be made to the legislation for more detailed information.