Almost one fifth of van MOT failures are a result of unsafe tyres

Almost one fifth of van and pick-up drivers are overlooking a simple yet critical vehicle maintenance check – and it’s costing them when it comes round to their MOT test. 

A recent report from the annual UK MOT vehicle check-up produced a shocking statistic that 17% of van and pick-up vehicles are failing their MOT tests as a result of illegal tread depths. 

Not only is this oversight posing a potential safety risk to these vehicle owners and other road users, but it can also disrupt business operations if a van needs to be off the road for tyre replacements. 

Tyres can easily be forgotten when it comes to routine vehicle maintenance, unless a puncture or a similar urgent fault occurs. However, with a few very simple, regular checks, MOT failures due to tyre neglect can be avoidable. It’s particularly important for light commercial vehicles to pay attention to tyre maintenance, as carrying heavier loads can take a toll on tyres and accelerate wear.

Checking for tread depth

Tyre tread depth must be above 1.6mm to be considered legal, but it’s worth noting that tyres can still be considered dangerous as they approach this level. To check tread depth levels, you can simply place a 20p coin in the main grooves of the tyre. If you can’t see the outer band on the coin, your tyres are within the legal limit. Otherwise, they will need replacing as soon as possible. 

It’s important to check each tyre individually, as they could be wearing unevenly depending on tracking or alignment issues – you can read more about checking your tyre alignments here.

Uneven wear

If you experience feelings of vibration or notice that the vehicle is pulling to one side while driving, this could be a sign of low tread depth and uneven wear. If you are unsure, it’s advised to get your tyres checked over by a professional.

Not only can tyre maintenance enhance a vehicle’s performance, but selecting the right tyre for the weather conditions can also elevate the driving experience and ensure tyre longevity. As we head into the warmer months, it’s worth considering summer van tyres for optimum efficiency:

LSV88

The LSV88 is designed with durability and handling in mind, with reinforced casing for ultimate carrying capacity. Deep grooves offer traction and high wear resistance, while staggered sipes provide improved handling and braking in wet conditions.

4Seasons Van

Applicable not only to summer but all year round, the 4Seasons Van tyre blends comfort and handling with longevity. The advanced silica tread compound boosts rolling resistance for improved fuel efficiency, and micro sipes through the centre of the tread improve traction and grip in wet weather.

For more information about the Landsail van tyre range, contact your local Landsail dealer.