Is it illegal to have different tyres on the same axle?

Hello, I’ve just bought a used 2023 MINI Cooper S from a MINI dealer. I’ve noticed that there are three Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres and one KPATOS on the off side rear.

Michelin suggest that this could be illegal and it strikes me as being potentially dangerous. I would welcome your thoughts and recommendations.

Asked on 16 February 2024 by Peter Busby

Answered by David Ross
Although having one odd tyre on your vehicle is less than ideal, unless the tyre is a different size to your existing Michelins it is not illegal. It is however a budget tyre which has clearly been fitted as a cheap replacement due to a puncture or damage on the original Michelin. Given the low mileage we would expect the Michelins to still have plenty of tread left, so we would recommend replacing the Kpatos with a matching Michelin.
Similar questions
I have just got a BMW X1 M Sport which has mixed tyres. It has 3 Pirelli 225/50R18 99W and the nearside front is a LingLong 225/50R18 95V. Is it safe to leave it like this?
I have read that you can be fined by the police for having mixed tread tyres fitted on the same axle. Is this true? My local Citroen dealer replaced one of my Cross Climate Michelin tyres with a Michelin...
My MINI Cooper has runflat tyres. I have just had the first service after two years at 9200 miles. The tread on the front tyres is now circa 3mm and the rear set is at circa 5mm. The wear seems excessive...
Related models
More refined and better steering feel, much more fun to drive than previous MINI, excellent engines.