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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.
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