Tyres play a crucial role in MOT outcomes, road safety, and overall vehicle performance. If your MOT is approaching, you may be wondering whether fitting budget tyres is enough to pass or if premium tyres are a better investment. While both options can meet legal requirements, there are important differences that UK drivers should understand before making a decision.
This guide explains how tyre choice affects MOT results, safety, and long-term value.
During an MOT, testers do not assess tyre brand or price. Instead, they focus on whether the tyres meet legal and safety standards. Key checks include:
If any of these requirements are not met, your vehicle will fail the MOT regardless of whether the tyres are budget or premium.
Budget tyres are popular because they are affordable and widely available. For drivers covering low annual mileage or preparing a vehicle for sale, they can be a practical option.
Pros of budget tyres:
Cons of budget tyres:
While budget tyres can pass an MOT, they may reach the legal tread limit sooner, increasing the risk of failure at the next test.
Premium tyres are designed with higher-quality materials and advanced tread patterns. While they do not guarantee an MOT pass, they reduce the likelihood of tyre-related failures.
Advantages of premium tyres:
For drivers who want consistency and fewer surprises at MOT time, premium tyres often provide better long-term value.
The right choice depends on your driving habits and vehicle usage:
Checking your tyre condition early using tools such as https://checkmot.com/ allows you to plan replacements before the test.
Although budget tyres cost less initially, they may need replacing more often. Premium tyres typically last longer, reducing the risk of repeated MOT advisories and unexpected failures.
From a safety perspective, tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road. Better grip and braking performance can make a significant difference, especially in wet conditions.
Both budget and premium tyres can pass an MOT if they meet legal standards. However, premium tyres generally offer better longevity, safety, and peace of mind. If you want to minimise MOT risks and improve driving confidence, investing in quality reinforces both compliance and road safety.
Do budget tyres cause MOT failure?
No. Budget tyres only fail if they do not meet legal requirements such as tread depth or condition.
Does an MOT tester consider tyre brand?
No. MOT tests focus on safety and legality, not brand or price.
Will premium tyres guarantee an MOT pass?
No tyre guarantees a pass, but premium tyres reduce the risk of wear-related failures.
How close to the MOT can I change tyres?
You can replace tyres at any time before the test, as long as they are road-legal on the day.
Are mixed tyre brands allowed?
Yes, but tyre types must match on the same axle (e.g. both radial).
How can I check my tyre-related MOT history?
You can review past advisories and failures online using services like https://checkmot.com/