It really is anything but surprising that second-hand tyres are so popular in the UK. If you’ve ever experienced the displeasure of shopping for new tyres, you’ll know exactly how expensive they can be.
The larger and more prestigious the vehicle, the more expensive it is to replace worn or damaged tyres.
Handing over hundreds of pounds for nothing more than replacement tyres is a regrettable affair in all instances. Nobody would dispute the importance of safe tyres, but forking out such huge prices and they need replacing is never particularly pleasant.
As a result, more motorists than ever before are setting their sights on second-hand tyres. A trend that has prompted plenty of debate, with regard to whether or not driving on used tyres represents a disaster waiting to happen.
Truth is, the safety or otherwise of buying second hand tyres comes down to one simple thing – where you buy them from. As far as the experts are concerned, there are two avenues available for purchasing used tyres, and only one of them is safe.
The Safe Option: Reputable Dealers and Garages
A look at the safe option first, buying used tyres from a reputable dealer or garage is usually a safe bet. This is because not only are the second-hand tyres sold extensively inspected and safety tested before being fitted, but they are also repaired (if necessary) to a professional standard.
Plus, the fact that they will usually come with some kind of warranty brings peace of mind into the purchase.
Understandably, the downside to buying used tyres this way is the likelihood of elevated costs. Used tyres from reputable dealers and garages cost way more than second-hand tyres available elsewhere, but are nonetheless guaranteed to be safe.
The Questionable Option: Private Resale
Admittedly, there’s nothing to say that second-hand tyres sold privately cannot be perfectly safe. In fact, they can be an absolute bargain in some instances, where nearly-new tyres in outstanding condition are available at rock bottom prices.
Unfortunately, the problem with all private resale tyres is that there are no formal guarantees. You cannot be sure that the seller has checked their quality or safety, or conducted any necessary repairs before selling them on. In addition, there’s a little to no chance you will be able to return them, if you are not satisfied.
They’re usually far cheaper than dealership or garage-purchase tyres, but there’s a reason for this.
A Clear and Sensible Choice…
Purchased the right way and from the right sources, part-worn tyres can be an absolute godsend. They can be safe, long-lasting and exponentially less expensive than new tyres.
For anyone intent on purchasing used tyres elsewhere, the whole ‘buyer beware’ message applies. Unless you can be 100% sure that they are safe to use, it’s not worth taking the risk.
You really cannot put a price on safety – even when there are savings of hundreds of pounds on the table!
