About 97 per cent of part-worn tyres sold at garages in the region have some form of defect – and 45 per cent are not fit for use, according to Trading Standards.
Officers investigated tyres at premises in Yorkshire and the Humber during National Tyre Safety Month, examining whether they met stringent industry safety standards.
Drivers are now being warned they could pay a high price for trying to save money with a used tyre.
Chris Wilson, trading standards manager at Hull City Council, said: “Our findings should act as a stark reminder to anyone thinking about purchasing second-hand tyres. Results suggest some sectors of the trade have developed bad practices, which could be putting consumers at risk.
“Drivers may feel that they can get a bargain by purchasing second-hand, or others may have no choice. Irrespective, they have the right to demand that the products they buy are safe and legal.
“As tyres are the only part of the car that’s in contact with the road surface, their integrity is of the upmost importance. Any faults or defects could result in the driver losing control of their vehicle, risking the lives of themselves, other road users and any passengers that may be in the vehicle.
“A recent conviction of a used tyre retailer in Hertfordshire resulted in a £7,000 fine and the threat of a prison sentence in the event of future tyre safety offences.”
Some of the issues detected in investigations included:
- Tyre not marked as part-worn
- Repair not carried out in accordance with industry standards
- Unrepaired penetration damage
- Run flat/deflation damage
- Bead damage
- Significant age-related deterioration
- Bulges
- Deep cuts or cord/ply exposed
When buying second-hand goods through a retailer, consumers have the same rights as when purchasing new goods.
Items must be of satisfactory quality, be fit for purpose and must meet the expectations of the consumer, bearing in mind of course that the item is second hand and so reasonable wear and tear might be expected. In the case of second-hand tyres there are strict laws in place which mean that at the very least they must be safe to use.
Get more guidance on tyre safety here.
