Ensuring your used car tyres are NCT-ready

HELPDESK:Answering your motoring queries

From H Mc: I bought a used car three months ago and it’s up for its NCT this month. I’ve only noticed now that the tyres don’t have the “e” mark that’s required under the new rules.

Do the new rules mean I have to change them now – there is plenty of thread left on them – or is it that I have to get tyres with an E-mark the next time I change them?

Since April 1st the NCT has included a check to ensure that tyres on cars are e-marked. The rules are quite clear in that the NCT rules state that “a vehicle will fail if the ‘E’ or ‘e’ mark is not visible”. The RSA advises that if the tyres fitted to your vehicle do not have an e-mark you should return to the place of purchase and get them replaced.

I understand that you bought privately, so that might not be as easy, but you will not pass the test on the current tyres.

It’s important for all buyers of used cars to check the tyres as part of their pre-purchase checklist.

For those who have had tyres fitted recently that dont carry the e-mark, they are also advised to bring the car back to the place of purchase and get appropriate tyres fitted. It’s illegal to fit non-e-marked tyres and if there are any problems getting this resolved then you should contact the various consumer rights agencies, such as the National Consumer Agency. You will need some proof of purchase in these cases, so it’s important to keep receipts for such transactions.

From TM: I’ve got a scooter that was left by my daughter when she moved to Britain and I’ve had no success in selling it locally. Is there still a market for mopeds in Ireland?

We turned to our colleague on two wheels, Tony Toner, and he tells us there is still a strong market for these bikes, as hard-hit motorists seek to cut down their commuting costs. You can seek assistance from a bike store which might sell the scooter for a commission.

The bike market may well slow down in the near future when compulsory basic training is introduced (probably before the end of this year). While it’s long overdue – and welcome – the added costs may turn some people away from biking, particularly in this very price-conscious sector.

On the issue of cost, Toner says a major concern remains over the tendency of some bikers to look for savings in safety equipment. “Some riders use helmets I wouldn’t put flowers in,” he said.

Send your queries to Motors Helpdesk, The Irish Times, 24-28 Tara St, Dublin 2 or e-mail motorshelp@irishtimes.com