Tyres play a critical role in MOT results, yet many UK drivers are unsure how seasonal tyres affect their annual test. Whether you use winter tyres, summer tyres, or switch between the two, understanding what testers look for can help you avoid unnecessary MOT failures and stay road legal year-round.
Summer tyres are designed to perform best in temperatures above 7°C. They offer better grip on dry and wet roads during warmer months and are fitted as standard on most vehicles in the UK.
Winter tyres, on the other hand, use a softer rubber compound and deeper tread patterns to improve traction in cold, wet, icy, or snowy conditions. While winter tyres are common in parts of Europe, their use in the UK is optional rather than mandatory.
Both tyre types are legal in the UK, but they must meet MOT standards regardless of season.
Your MOT test does not assess whether your tyres are suitable for the current season. Instead, testers focus on safety and legality. This means winter tyres will not cause an MOT failure simply because it is summer, and summer tyres will not automatically fail in winter.
However, any tyre fitted to your vehicle must meet minimum tread depth requirements (1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre), be free from damage, and be correctly fitted for the vehicle.
Problems usually arise from wear, age, or incorrect fitting rather than the tyre type itself. Winter tyres, for example, can wear faster in warmer weather due to their softer compound. Excessive wear may push them below the legal tread limit by the time your MOT is due.
Another issue is mixing tyre types. While it is legal to have different seasonal tyres on the front and rear, it can affect handling and stability. Some MOT testers may record this as an advisory if it impacts safety.
All-season tyres combine features of both winter and summer tyres, making them a popular choice for UK drivers who want convenience. From an MOT perspective, all-season tyres are treated the same as any other tyre. As long as they meet legal requirements, they will not negatively affect your test.
Before your MOT, it’s wise to check your tyre condition using a trusted vehicle check service such as 👉 https://checkmot.com/ to review previous advisories and spot potential issues early.
There is no legal requirement to change winter tyres back to summer tyres before an MOT. However, if your winter tyres are heavily worn or showing signs of heat damage, replacing them beforehand could improve your chances of passing.
Similarly, if you are running summer tyres in winter conditions, poor tread depth or cracking due to cold weather may lead to an MOT failure.
Check tread depth regularly, inspect tyres for cuts or bulges, ensure correct tyre pressure, and avoid mixing different tyre sizes or structures. Seasonal tyres are perfectly acceptable, but only when they are properly maintained.
Will winter tyres fail an MOT in summer?
No. Winter tyres are legal year-round as long as they meet MOT standards.
Do I need to tell the MOT tester I use seasonal tyres?
No. The tester will assess the tyres fitted on the day of the test.
Is it illegal to mix winter and summer tyres?
It is legal, but not recommended. It may result in an advisory if it affects safety.
Do all-season tyres pass MOTs easily?
Yes, provided they meet tread depth and condition requirements.
What is the most common tyre-related MOT failure?
Insufficient tread depth is the most frequent reason for tyre-related MOT failures.