Tyre MOT failures are spiralling – It’s time to join forces for safer roads

And how being part of Co-Pilot’s Vision Zero Community is helping TyreSafe support
a shared mission to save lives

By Michael Bourne, Operations Director, TyreSafe, July 2025

Newly released data reveals a stark truth: over 2.15 million vehicles failed their MOT in 2023–24 due to tyre defects. Even more alarming, more than 750,000 of those had been issued tyre-related advisories in the previous test - warnings that appear to have gone unheeded until the risk became critical.

Tyres are fundamental to road safety. As the only contact between vehicle and road, worn, underinflated or damaged tyres can significantly increase braking distances, reduce grip, and compromise vehicle control - particularly in adverse weather conditions.

What the Numbers Tell Us

At TyreSafe, we believe these figures highlight a wider issue: tyre safety simply isn’t receiving the attention it demands. Relying on a once-a-year inspection, with limited awareness around follow-up actions, is putting drivers, passengers and other road users at avoidable risk.

We don’t see this as a matter of blame - it’s about shared responsibility. In 2023 alone, more than 1,600 people were killed and over 139,000 injured on UK roads. These numbers make it clear that there is more to do - and that working together is essential.

That’s why TyreSafe continues to align its efforts with road safety stakeholders including Co-Pilot, the NPCC, RoSPA, PACTS and many others. We’re here to support and strengthen initiatives that raise awareness, encourage safer choices, and help reduce preventable harm.

Areas Where Collaboration Matters

While TyreSafe does not campaign for legislative or regulatory change, we stand firmly behind efforts that improve tyre safety through practical, non-political means.

We believe progress can come from shared initiatives focused on:
● Helping drivers better understand MOT advisories and what action might be needed.
● Exploring how technology and data can be used to support safer decisions.
● Raising public awareness of how tyre condition affects safety.
● Exchanging insight to support consistent, joined-up messages across sectors.

As Richard Stowe of Verifleet aptly puts it: “We wouldn’t ignore advice from a doctor — so why are we still so passive when it comes to safety warnings about our vehicles?”

The Power of the Vision Zero Community

Being part of Co-Pilot’s Vision Zero Community has given TyreSafe the opportunity to connect with like-minded organisations who share a common goal: making our roads safer through partnership, not policy.

Through this growing network, we’re:
● Sharing expertise to better understand emerging risks and opportunities.
● Supporting consistent public messaging to help change behaviours.
● Collaborating on campaigns and educational resources.
● Learning how data can inform a preventative approach to vehicle maintenance.

This community-driven approach aligns with TyreSafe’s core mission: to educate, engage, and equip people with the knowledge they need to make safer choices around tyres.

Moving Forward, Together

Yes - the MOT data is concerning. But it’s also a call to action, not just for TyreSafe, but for everyone with a role to play in road safety.

We’re proud to work alongside partners who are pushing boundaries, raising the bar, and finding new ways to tackle persistent challenges. By contributing our insight, supporting awareness efforts, and staying focused on education, we aim to ensure tyre safety is no longer the forgotten factor in crash prevention.

Because this isn’t about ticking a box - it’s about saving lives. And the more we collaborate, the closer we get to that goal.