CAMDEN TYRESServices · NW1

Pre-MOT tyre checks · Camden NW1

Pre-MOT tyre checks in Camden

Every MOT checks your tyres for tread depth, condition, size and type, so a worn or damaged tyre means a fail. A quick check before your test can stop that. Drive in to Camden Tyres Services at 166 Royal College Street, NW1 and we'll look over all four tyres and tell you honestly if anything needs doing.

Tyre sidewall showing the size 215/45 R17 marked on the rubber

What does the MOT check on tyres?

The MOT tester checks that each tyre has at least 1.6mm of tread across the central three-quarters of its width all the way round, has no cuts, bulges, tears or exposed cord, is properly seated on the wheel, and that tyres on the same axle are the same size and type. On cars first used from 2012, a tyre pressure warning light showing a fault is also a fail.

Minimum legal tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre
1.6mmMinimum legal tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre
Maximum fine per illegal tyre, plus 3 penalty points
£2,500Maximum fine per illegal tyre, plus 3 penalty points
Tyres must match in size and type on each axle
Same axleTyres must match in size and type on each axle

Why choose us

What you get

  • Avoid a retest

    Sort a worn tyre before the test, not after a fail.

  • All four tyres

    We check tread depth, sidewalls, bulges, cuts and matching sizes on each axle.

  • Your choice of fix

    If something needs doing, choose part-worn or new - we'll price both.

  • Quick

    A tyre check takes minutes. Drive in during opening hours.

The process

How pre-mot tyre checks works

  1. Step 1: Drive in

    Come to 166 Royal College St during opening hours - Monday to Sunday.

  2. Step 2: We check all four

    Tread depth measured, sidewalls and tread inspected, sizes compared.

  3. Step 3: You get a straight answer

    We tell you what passes, what's borderline and what would fail.

  4. Step 4: Sorted if needed

    Replacements fitted while you wait, so you're ready for test day.

FAQs

Pre-MOT tyre checks: your questions answered

Can't see your question? Call 020 7485 4067 or see all our tyre FAQs.

What tread depth fails an MOT?

A car tyre fails the MOT if the tread is below 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of its width, anywhere around the tyre. Many tyres have tread wear indicators, small raised bars in the main grooves, which sit at 1.6mm. If the tread is level with them, the tyre needs replacing.

Will a bulge in my tyre fail the MOT?

Yes. A lump or bulge in the sidewall usually means the internal structure of the tyre is damaged, often from hitting a kerb or pothole. It's an MOT fail and, more importantly, the tyre could fail suddenly on the road. Get it replaced as soon as possible rather than waiting for your test.

Can I have different tyre brands on my car?

Yes. The MOT doesn't require the same brand on every wheel. What it does check is that tyres on the same axle are the same size and type of construction. For the best handling it's still sensible to have the same model on each axle - ask us what's available in your size.

Other services

  • Stack of used car tyres outside a tyre garage

    01

    Part-worn tyres

    Quality used tyres with legal tread left, at a fraction of the price of new. Checked and fitted while you wait.

  • Close-up of the deep tread on a set of new car tyres

    02

    New tyres

    New car tyres supplied and fitted in Camden. Tell us your size and we'll give you a straight price.

  • Alloy wheel and tyre close up, ready for a puncture check

    03

    Puncture repairs

    Nail in the tyre or a slow leak? We find it, check it can be repaired safely and fix it while you wait.

Pre-MOT tyre checks for drivers in Camden Town, Kentish Town, King's Cross & Somers Town, Primrose Hill & Chalk Farm, Hampstead & Belsize Park, Gospel Oak & Dartmouth Park and Euston & Regent's Park.

Need pre-mot tyre checks? We're on Royal College Street.

166 Royal College St, London NW1 0SP. Mon–Fri 8.30am–7pm, Sat 9am–6pm, Sun 10am–4pm.