05/09/2026
🚕⚠️ UKCheckpoints — Taxi & PHV Tyre Safety Warning ⚠️🚕
A new tyre safety campaign has been launched specifically for taxi and private hire vehicle drivers following a number of enforcement cases involving dangerously worn and illegal tyres.
Recent enforcement action has highlighted just how quickly tyre defects can put a licensed vehicle off the road:
🔴 Sefton-licensed PHV — immediately suspended after officers discovered a tyre with white reinforcing cords exposed across the inner surface.
🔴 Another Sefton PHV — removed from service after two tyres had exposed cords during a joint operation involving Liverpool City Council Licensing and Merseyside Tunnel Police.
🔴 Bristol-licensed PHV — suspended during overnight enforcement after a tyre was found worn almost completely smooth.
🔴 Knowsley-licensed driver — prosecuted after operating with two illegal tyres, receiving penalty points and fines.
The campaign reminds professional drivers that taxis and PHVs can cover significantly higher mileages than private cars, making regular tyre inspections particularly important.
🛞 Remember the ACT check:
A — Air pressure
C — Condition
T — Tread
Drivers are being encouraged to check tyres regularly for:
❌ Exposed cords
❌ Cuts or bulges
❌ Dangerous damage
❌ Incorrect pressures
❌ Insufficient tread
Part-worn tyres also need particular care. They must meet legal requirements, including being properly inspected and pressure tested before sale, permanently marked “PART-WORN”, having at least 2mm tread remaining and being free from dangerous defects.
⚠️ Previous checks by Trading Standards, police and local authorities have uncovered part-worn tyres with structural damage, exposed cords, unsafe repairs and missing statutory markings.
For taxi and PHV drivers, an illegal tyre isn't simply a maintenance issue — it can mean prosecution, penalty points, a vehicle suspension and lost earnings.
🚔 UKCheckpoints will continue highlighting enforcement activity and roadworthiness issues affecting professional drivers across the UK.
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