Nearly 20% of van MOT failures are from unsafe tyres

Vehicle and tyre checks are vitally important to ensure a safe and comfortable drive and every year, van owners and fleet managers must ensure they are booking their vehicles in for that all-important MOT check. Whilst this may sometimes feel like an inconvenience, it’s hugely important to ensure vehicle safety is prioritised, not only for drivers but for other road users, too.

A recent study* – the annual UK MOT vehicle check-up – revealed that more than a third of vans and pick-ups submitted for an MOT in the past year failed their initial test. Taking a deeper dive into where vehicles fell short, it uncovered that 17% of vans failed MOTs due to the tread being below the legal limit.

Failing a MOT test can be frustrating and whilst it can incur additional costs, there’s also the added risk of being without your vehicle. Not to mention it can be confiscated if it doesn’t have a valid MOT.

When it comes to your tyres, well-maintained tyres and proper tread depth ensures your vehicle has better traction and control on the roads, especially in adverse weather conditions, which keeps you safe whilst driving.

To ensure you aren’t faced with any surprises at your next MOT appointment, below we’ve summarised some of the telltale signs that might indicate your tyre tread is thinning and needs replacing:

• Tread wear bars: On your tyres, you’ll be able to see rubber bars which may appear when the tread is nearing the legal minimum depth and a clear indication as to when it’s time to replace your tyres.

• Uneven wear: When looking at your tyres, it may appear that they look more rounded rather than flat – this could indicate tyre wear. Sometimes one tyre can wear faster than the other, which can also indicate alignment issues.

• Sidewall and visible damage: Another indicator of thinning tread levels may present themselves in the sidewall of the tyre. Keep your eye out for visible cracks and bulges on the sidewall of the tyre, also taking a visual inspection of the whole tyre, to identify any general wear and tear such as cuts or separations in the tread.

• Vibrations while driving: Finally, if you’re out driving and you feel unusual vibrations, hear unfamiliar noises, or find that your vehicle is pulling to one side, this too could be a sign of uneven wear and a reduction in the tread depth.

Tyre tread depths are crucial for ensuring vehicle safety, particularly vans as they must be able to carry heavier loads in comparison to cars. Tyres with a tread depth below 1.6 mm will fail an MOT. There is a quick and easy way to check your tyre wear – the 20p test. Read about this test in more detail here.

Alternatively, you can also check the tread depth by using a depth gauge.

It’s important for van drivers to pay close attention to potential problems as soon as they arise, rather than waiting for the issues to be highlighted during the annual MOT check.

The right tyre not only enhances the vehicle’s performance but also significantly contributes to safety on the road. As we head towards the warmer months, van drivers and fleet owners may be considering investing in summer tyres for ultimate performance and efficiency. Davanti’s offering of reliable and effective van tyres includes products such as:

Vantoura DX450

Another option available is Davanti’s Vantoura DX450 van tyre, designed to handle heavy loads while offering exceptional mileage capabilities. This highly durable commercial van tyre is engineered to provide efficiency and balanced performance in all loading scenarios. It’s stable handling in wet and dry conditions ensures that van fleets can keep moving efficiently.

DX440

The DX440 is a commercial, summer van tyre with the strength and durability to endure heavy loads in all conditions. Designed to perform on both normal road terrains and in demanding site conditions, the high-wearing DX440 endures heavy loads without compromising handling or comfort.

With an understanding of the various types of tyres available, van drivers can be equipped to make an informed decision tailored to their specific driving needs.

Learn more about our commercial van range on our product page.