Nobody wants to fail the NCT, and here at Sean McManus Tyres we will do our best to ensure your tyres are in perfect condition, saving you time and money.
The NCT takes into account various aspects of your vehicle’s tyres, including tyre condition, thread depth and tyre specification. To help you prepare your tyres for the NCT, we have compiled a list of the most common faults.
- Not all tyres fitted on the same axel are the same type or size. (radial/cross ply etc.)
- Your tyres have an insufficient speed rating for the maximum legal speed limit.
- In some cases, your tyres may extend too far beyond the bodywork of your vehicle.

- Tyres have been fitted the wrong way. (For instance, incorrect direction for directional tyres or wrong side out for asymmetrical).
- Insufficient load capacity. Check your tyres match your car or van’s load maximum.
- A ‘space-saving tyre’ has been fitted on the axel. Typically, these tyres are designed for short term use following a puncture. To avoid this, be sure to quickly replace any damaged tyres.
- An E-Mark is not clearly visible on the tyre. An E-mark confirms that a tyre meets minimum EU or International (UNECE) standards in relation to its dimensions, load and speed rating. E-mark tyres have been tested to ensure adequate tread depth and performance ability. This can be easily checked at home.

To help you along, here’s a quick guide on how to read your tyre in relation to E-marks:
- The E-mark consists of an ‘E’ or ‘e’ and a number within a circle or a rectangle
- A capital ‘E’ denotes UNECE approval, a small ‘e’ EU approval. Either is acceptable.
- The number following the ‘E’ or ‘e’ denotes the Member State that granted approval.
- Following the circle or rectangle is a type approval certificate number, issued for tyre size and type.
To find out how we can help you fully prepare your tyres for your NCT, you can reach us using the link below.