Tyres aren’t cheap. Buying an entire new set of tyres can set you back around £300 for mid-range tyres or more for premium tyres. Given the cost-of-living crisis, many people reach for budget tyres instead.

But true cost isn’t just the price tag. It’s the performance, safety, fuel use, MOT risk, and lifespan. If one set of tyres wears through within two years and another set lasts five, then the set that lasts five could be double the price and still be better value.

Below, we’ll look at where cheap tyres actually save money in the long run, or if it’s just a false economy.

Why Cheap Tyres Cost Less

Cheap tyres cost less because they’re cheaper to make. That’s it. They use lower-quality rubber, simpler tread patterns, and shorter development and testing times.

That doesn’t mean they’re intrinsically unsafe when new; just that performance is different. Usually, that’s fine. But it can result in lower wet grip ratings and higher rolling resistance.

The question: Does the lower upfront cost outweigh the drawbacks?

Performance Differences: Budget Tyres vs Premium Tyres

Go into any tyre centre, and you’ll find a range of price options. Most people never get to test out the different tyres as if they were trying on a pair of shoes. Generally, as the price increases, there is a very real and very noticeable change in performance, especially between budget vs premium tyres.

Here’s an overview:

Lifespan and Hidden Costs

Perhaps the biggest cost of cheap tyres isn’t the price tag; it’s the longevity.

Cheap tyres wear down faster because the rubber compound is lower quality, even if it’s technically harder. They simply don’t last as long. Cars might need to replace budget tyres 30-40% sooner. So, if the price difference is only 30% less, you’ve not really saved any money.

But that’s not the only hidden cost. More frequent replacements, higher risk of MOT failure due to tread depth, and more fuel used all add up. It could be as much as £20 per tyre after a year of real driving.

Given that budget tyres at their lowest cost around £45, that’s a noticeable difference.

Are Cheap Tyres Safe?

Yes, cheap tyres aren’t going to blow out the moment you use them. They deliver exactly what they promise: an affordable tyre option. But safe on a dry road in 15°C temperatures is very different than on black ice in the heart of winter.

Cheap tyres have shorter braking distances and less grip on corners, potentially increasing the risk of an accident. It all depends on the situation.

If you’re unsure which tyres offer the best value for your car and your mileage, our technicians can help.