Here is why you should not buy used tyres

Hello Paul, I have just bought a locally used Toyota and I need to replace its worn out tyres. Due to financial constraints, I can only afford used tyres. Are there any dangers of driving on used tyres and what precautions can I take when buying them. Joshua.

Hello Joshua, used tyres are part worn out tyres that have already been driven on but have been stocked by used tyre or scrap dealers. Motorists are motivated to buy used tyres because it saves money. The used tyre industry is a growing one with many dealers who offer incentives such as low prices, are able to sale one tyre to you and are conveniently available in your neighbourhood. However, driving on used tyres can be a huge gamble because of the risk paused by the condition of some used tyres.
To understand the risk, you need to realise that tyres are a vehicle’s only contact with the road. Tyres use friction to provide traction which affects handling, maneuverability, braking and fuel efficiency. When you buy used tyres, they may not fulfil the above functions, depending on their condition.
There are challenges paused by buying used tyres. There are no legal comebacks or any form of responsibility to you for the performance of these tyres. You are likely to buy the wrong tyre tread design (off road or mixed), speed rating or purpose. There is no history available about the used tyres. The used tyre deals are usually not subjected to quality controls, date of manufacture, condition of treads and side walls. This is because the used tyre dealer is often not a professional tyre consultant.
The part worn tyres may compromise your safety on the road and that of others when they suffer catastrophic failure.
If you must buy part worn out or used tyres follow these precautions: buy from a reputable seller and a top tyre brand. The tyres ought to have the same tread design, depth, size and condition. Check the date of manufacture, tyres are considered expired after 6 years from production. Manufacture date on reputable tyres in inscribed by 4 digit DOT (Department of Transport) code which shows tyre build week and year. Look out for tread wear using a tread depth gauge or tread wear bars on the tyres. Check the used tyre side walls for damage during accidents, poor parking or lateral forces. Look out for signs of tyre repair especially if the interior tyre carcass was damaged by sharp objects.
Be wary if you find used tyres with cuts, bumps or big cuts around the rim. Do not drive for speeds more than 90 kms/ hour and dont drive for more than 100 kilometres. Part worn out tyres may not with stand the air friction heat buildup when driving fast. That said where one has a choice it is better to buy new tyres.