They shared some tips for all motorists
NCT Test centre(Image: Collins)
The National Car Testing Service (NCTS) has issued a stark warning to drivers after over 180,000 motorists failed their NCT test due to one common issue.
In collaboration with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána, they’ve highlighted a significant problem affecting many drivers.
Motorists have been urged to pay more attention to the state of their tyres, as many are only becoming aware of issues during their vehicle’s test.
To raise awareness, they’ve launched Tyre Safety Day, an initiative aimed at emphasising the dangers of neglecting tyre maintenance, particularly as we head into the winter months.
With the onset of colder weather, roads can become wet and slippery, making it harder for tyres to grip and brake effectively, reports RSVP Live.
The minimum legal car tyre tread depth is 1.6 mm – however, for safety, it is recommended to replace tyres when the tread is below 3 mm, as braking performance and grip, especially in wet conditions, are significantly reduced at shallower depths(Image: Getty Images)
Over the past year, the NCTS revealed that a staggering 182,160 drivers failed their NCT due to poor tyre condition – that’s 10.5% of all motorists.
Alarmingly, they found that 43,184 vehicles had dangerously low tread depths of less than 1.6mm.
Mark Synnott, Managing Director of NCTS, pointed out that the service has identified over 200,000 tyres with defects this year alone.
An Garda Síochána has also handed out 1,755 fixed charge notices for tyre offences so far this year.
Sam Waide, CEO of the RSA, said: “Tyres are the only part of your vehicle in direct contact with the road, and they play a vital role in keeping you safe. Worn or defective tyres can mean the difference between stopping in time or being involved in a serious collision.
“Alarmingly, tyres remain the leading cause of NCT failures, which shows that too many motorists are not carrying out basic checks. Tyre Safety Day is a reminder that checking your tyres should be a year-round habit, not something left until test time.”
Inspector Ross O Doherty, Garda National Roads Policing Bureau, also added: “Too often, Gardaí encounter vehicles on the road fitted with tyres that fall below acceptable legal and safety standards, posing risks not only to the driver but to all road users.
“We encourage drivers to make tyre checks a regular habit-looking out for signs of wear, damage, or low tread depth-and to replace tyres when necessary. This simple step can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and ensuring safer journeys.”
The NCTS confirmed that tyres must comply with the appropriate standard and dimensions for your motor, remain defect-free, maintain proper inflation, and possess a tread depth of no less than 1.6mm (1mm for motorcycles).
Below are some safety recommendations they provided for drivers:.
- Conduct a visual inspection prior to each journey
- Check for bulges, cracks, cuts, or uneven wear
- Maintain tyres at the manufacturer’s specified pressure levels. Swap out your tyres when the tread depth dips below 3mm – new tyres typically have a depth of 8mm
- Remember: the legal minimum tread is 1.6mm (1mm for motorcycles).
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