Part Worn Tyres How Safe Are They? Guide and Advice

Thinking of buying part worn tyres? the biggest thing you have to remind yourself is that these are indeed second hand tyres that more than likely have been used on another car or van. The main source and market leader of these used tyres are from the continental tyre companies from Europe.
Some issues you should be aware of with regards to part worn tyres are the fact that a majority of the time these types of tyre are sold with 50 percent less grip when you compare them with normal new tyres. On top of this these used tyres will usually have a good few thousand kilometres of road driving behind them too. All in all, any potential buyer needs to recognise that part worn tyres are used tyres.
So always be cautious when deciding to purchase them. Most cases however the tyre will be perfectly road worthy but you should always check with the previous owner or garage if they have been in any bumps or collisions. You must know these things as there is a chance that damage caused in the past may be irreparable now.
It goes without saying that part worn tyres (because they are used tyres) have a lower retail price than that of the new tyres. This is judged to be the biggest reason why drivers will purchase used tyres as the saving in money could be what keeps the car on the road when regarding other outgoings necessary to run a vehicle these days. Tyre companies all around notify people the hazards of second hand tyres however it is advised that each argument for and against is heard before a decision was made on the legality of them.
The trading standard office viewpoint on the matter is one of which that they will continue to make drivers aware of any dangers they must think about prior to any purchase. This makes sense as long as the driver is aware the difference in health & safety between a tyre with tread at its legal limit next to a tyre that is half worn but still has all its other functions in perfect working order.
If its your opinion that you wish to go ahead with purchasing part worn tyres, you should always view a demo of them getting blown up (inflated) before they get fit into place onto your car. On top of that, please make sure there are no bumps or bulges shown on the tyre. Part worn tyres should be checked for premature aging. If signs of aging are there then you should be advised not to dip into your wallet at all.
The Legal issues of part worn tyres
Part worn second hand tyres are legally sold throughout the world. This is only possible however when they don't have any of the following characteristics.
* Make sure there are no 25 millimetres or longer cuts on the surface of the tyre
* Make sure there is no cord or ply vulnerable on either side of the tyre
* Swollen bubbles or rubber, Tears or bumps must not appear
* Unrepairable damage to the tyre
Proper official markings must be on the part worn tyres also. These need to:
* internal inspections only if the used tyre is sold on the rim
* The ratings of the speed and load ratings must be displayed
* "PART WORN" must be displayed on the tyre
I hope the above information has helped you come to a decision on whether or not part worn tyres are for you. Like most things they have their advantages and disadvantages but always check everything first before you make a purchase.