Are cracked tyres legal or illegal?

Cracked tyres and the law

Whether cracked tyres are legal depends on the severity and location of the cracking.

Minor surface cracking

Small, shallow surface cracks, particularly on older tyres, may not make the tyre illegal. They can sometimes pass an MOT if the cracking has not compromised the tyre's structure.

Deep or extensive cracking

Deep cracks, widespread cracking, or cracking that exposes the internal structure will cause an MOT failure and makes the tyre dangerous to use. Replace immediately.

Our advice

If you notice cracking, have the tyre inspected by a professional. Even if the cracking appears minor, it is often a sign that the rubber compound has degraded and the tyre should be replaced soon.