DVSA’s Tyre Testing Uncovers Major Label Discrepancies and Safety Concerns

Significant Failures in Tyre Testing Raise Industry Concerns

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has released its findings from the 2024 Vehicle Market Surveillance Unit programme, revealing significant discrepancies between actual tyre performance and their label claims. Of the 30 tyres tested across three different sizes, 20 failed to meet one or more of the declared values—raising concerns about tyre label accuracy and consumer safety.

Following retesting of 17 of the 20 failed tyres, the results showed:

• 1 tyre failed across all three parameters: wet grip, noise, and fuel efficiency.
• 2 tyres failed both wet grip and noise values.
• 9 tyres failed wet grip values.
• 1 tyre failed its noise value.
• 4 tyres met all parameter values upon retesting.

However, three of the original failed tyre models could not be retested as they had ceased production, limiting further assessment.Spotlight on Part-Worn and Retread TyresIn addition to new tyre testing, the DVSA also conducted a mystery shopper investigation into part-worn and retreaded tyres. The findings highlight the ongoing risks associated with used tyre sales:Part-Worn Tyres

• Out of 53 part-worn tyres purchased, five were found to be unroadworthy.
• Only two out of 53 were correctly marked as “PART WORN” as required by regulations.
• Six tyres were over 10 years old, with the oldest being more than 19 years old.

Retreaded Tyres

• Eight retreaded tyres were purchased and inspected—all of which complied with regulations.
• The retread industry has welcomed the UK’s mandatory implementation of ECE regulations 108 and 109, which set safety and quality standards for retreaded tyres.

Regulatory Concerns and Next Steps

The findings reinforce the need for strict compliance and enforcement of tyre safety regulations. Under The Motor Vehicle Tyres (Safety) Regulations 1994, part-worn tyres must meet minimum safety standards, including clear marking with “PART WORN” in letters at least 4mm high. Similarly, retreaded tyres require proper type approval to be legally sold.

The DVSA has confirmed it will continue market surveillance testing into 2025, focusing on tyre size variations from different manufacturers while ensuring wet grip, noise, and fuel efficiency values match official labels.

Industry Implications

These findings highlight the urgent need for increased enforcement in the tyre sector. Retailers and manufacturers must take greater responsibility for accurate labelling and compliance, while consumers are urged to remain vigilant when purchasing part-worn tyres. With the DVSA set to continue investigations next year, further scrutiny of the industry is expected.

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Q&A: Key Findings from the DVSA’s 2024 Tyre Testing

How many tyres failed the DVSA’s testing in 2024?
20 out of 30 tyres failed to meet at least one declared performance value.

What were the main failure points in new tyres?
The most common failure was wet grip, followed by noise levels and fuel efficiency.

Were any of the failed tyres retested?
Yes, 17 tyres were retested—with one failing all three parameters and nine failing wet grip alone.

What did the DVSA find in part-worn tyres?
Five out of 53 part-worn tyres were found to be unroadworthy, and only two were correctly marked as required by law.

Did retreaded tyres comply with regulations?
Yes, all eight retreaded tyres tested were found to be compliant with UK regulations.

What happens next?
The DVSA will continue testing in 2025, ensuring popular tyre sizes are accurately labelled and meet safety standards.

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