Driving with defective tyres can lead to a fine, penalty points and a vehicle that needs immediate attention. For an ordinary car, GOV.UK warns of a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for using a vehicle with a dangerous tyre. The actual allegation and circumstances matter.
What can make a tyre defective?
Insufficient tread is one issue, but it is not the only one. Serious cuts, exposed reinforcement, structural damage and an unsuitable fitment can also matter. A tyre with visible tread is not automatically roadworthy.
For ordinary cars, the familiar tread requirement is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread breadth around the full circumference. Other vehicle categories can have different requirements. Check condition as well as depth.
Do four defective tyres automatically mean twelve points?
Do not predict a court outcome by multiplying a points figure by the number of tyres. Rules about offences committed on the same occasion and the circumstances of the case can affect sentencing. Several defects are serious, but an online arithmetic example is not legal advice about the actual charge.
If you receive a notice, check what offence is alleged and obtain appropriate advice. Do not rely on a general tyre guide to calculate a disqualification outcome.
Does a recent MOT protect the driver?
An MOT records the vehicle's condition at the time of the test. It does not establish that the tyres remain safe after an impact, puncture or further wear. The driver still needs to keep the vehicle roadworthy between tests.
Keep records of inspections and repairs, but do not treat a receipt as a substitute for checking the current condition.
A practical prevention routine
Check pressures against the vehicle instructions, measure tread at several points and inspect visible tread and sidewalls for damage. Where access is difficult or wear is uneven, arrange a professional inspection. Deal with a fault before another journey rather than waiting for the next scheduled service.
Official reference: GOV.UK: check your vehicle is safe to drive.