MOT & Spare Wheels: What You Need to Know

The question of whether a spare wheel is checked during an MOT is a common one amongst UK motorists. Many drivers are unsure about the specific requirements and how a spare wheel, particularly a space saver, might impact their vehicle's roadworthiness certification. This article aims to demystify the process, providing clarity on what testers look for and what you need to be aware of to ensure your vehicle passes its MOT.

Understanding the MOT Test and Wheels

The MOT test is a legal requirement in the UK designed to ensure vehicles are safe and meet environmental standards. A crucial aspect of vehicle safety relates to its wheels and tyres. Tyres provide the essential contact between your vehicle and the road, influencing grip, braking, and steering. Therefore, the condition and type of tyres fitted are rigorously inspected.

What the MOT Tester Looks For

During an MOT, the tester will examine the condition of the tyres fitted to your vehicle. This includes checking for:

• Tread Depth: The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around its entire circumference.
• Damage: Cuts, bulges, or tears in the tyre sidewall or tread are not permitted.
• Wear Pattern: Uneven or excessive wear can indicate underlying suspension or steering problems.
• Tyre Type: Tyres must be of the correct type and size for the vehicle, as specified by the manufacturer.

The Spare Wheel: A Special Case

Now, let's address the core of the question: the spare wheel. The crucial point to understand is that the MOT test primarily focuses on the wheels and tyres currently fitted and in use on the vehicle. This means the spare wheel, if it's stored in its usual place and not currently mounted on the vehicle, is generally not inspected as part of the standard MOT test.

However, there's a significant caveat. If you are using your spare wheel as a replacement for a damaged or missing wheel on your vehicle at the time of the MOT test, then it will be subject to the same scrutiny as any other tyre.

Space Saver Wheels: The Nuances

This is where things get a little more complex, especially concerning 'space saver' or 'temporary use' spare wheels. These are designed for short-term use only and are typically smaller and narrower than standard tyres.

According to MOT testing guidelines, if a space saver wheel is fitted to the vehicle at the time of the test, it must meet certain criteria:

• Same Axle: The most critical rule is that tyres fitted to the same axle must be of the same size and type. This means if you have a space saver fitted on one side of the front axle, the other side of the front axle must also have a space saver of the same size and specification. You cannot mix a full-size tyre with a space saver on the same axle.
• Condition: Like any other tyre, the space saver must be in good condition, with adequate tread depth (meeting the 1.6mm minimum) and free from damage.
• Inflation: The space saver should be correctly inflated.

The common misconception that fitting a space saver to the 'other side' makes it pass is often misinterpreted. What is meant is that if you have a space saver fitted to, say, the front passenger side, you must also have an identical space saver fitted to the front driver's side to comply with the 'same axle' rule. You cannot have a space saver on one side and a full-size tyre on the other on the same axle.

Can You Fail an MOT for a Space Saver?

Yes, you can fail an MOT if a space saver wheel is fitted and it doesn't comply with the regulations. The most common reason for failure would be having a space saver fitted on one side of an axle, with a different type or size of tyre (especially a full-size tyre) on the other side of the same axle. Additionally, if the space saver itself is damaged, worn below the legal limit, or incorrectly inflated, it will also result in a failure.

What About Other Wheels?

If you have a full-size spare wheel that is not currently mounted on the vehicle, its condition is generally irrelevant to the MOT test. However, it's always good practice to ensure your spare wheel is properly inflated and in good condition, as you never know when you might need it.

Summary of Key Points

To summarise, the spare wheel itself is usually not inspected unless it is fitted to the vehicle at the time of the MOT. If a space saver is fitted, it must comply with the 'same axle' rule and be in good condition. Mixing tyre types or sizes on the same axle is a definite fail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Do I need to take my spare wheel out for the MOT?

A1: No, you do not need to remove your spare wheel if it is stored securely and not fitted to the vehicle. It is not part of the standard inspection.

Q2: What if my car only has a space saver fitted?

A2: If your car is currently running on a space saver (or two, on the same axle), the space saver(s) will be inspected for condition, tread depth, and inflation. Crucially, if a space saver is fitted, both wheels on that axle must be space savers of the same size.

Q3: Can I use different brands of tyres on the same axle?

A3: While ideally, tyres on the same axle should be identical (make, model, size, tread pattern), the MOT primarily tests for size and type consistency. However, using different brands can affect handling and may be flagged as an advisory.

Q4: What happens if my spare wheel is flat?

A4: If your spare wheel is flat and stored away, it won't affect your MOT. If you are using a flat spare wheel on the vehicle during the MOT, it will likely fail due to insufficient tread depth or obvious damage.

Q5: Does the MOT check the pressure of my spare wheel?

A5: The MOT does not check the pressure of a spare wheel that is stored away. If a spare wheel (including a space saver) is fitted to the vehicle during the test, its pressure will be checked, and it should be correctly inflated.

Ensuring your vehicle is compliant for its MOT is essential for road safety and legal operation. Understanding the specific rules surrounding spare wheels, especially space savers, can prevent unexpected failures and keep you moving. Always ensure tyres fitted to the same axle are consistent in size and type, and that all tyres in use meet the legal standards for tread depth and condition.