Used car tyre checks belong in the buying file before an export order is approved. Ask for evidence for every fitted tyre, including its markings, measured condition and any work the inspector recommends. For a batch purchase, keep that evidence against each vehicle so replacement costs and unresolved questions remain visible in the quotation.
This is a checklist for preparing an inspection request. A qualified tyre professional should assess suitability and condition for the actual vehicle and intended use. Photographs help you discuss findings, but cannot establish everything about a tyre.
Identify what is fitted to each vehicle
Request a legible photograph of each tyre's sidewall and label its position on the vehicle. Record the brand, product name, size and other visible specification markings. Include the spare if one is supplied, and ask the seller to identify any unreadable markings.
Keep the VIN or chassis identifier with the tyre record. A general statement such as "good tyres on all cars" leaves your team unable to compare individual vehicles or price proposed work. For a fleet order, use the same recording fields across the batch and note any differences.
Model pages such as the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Hilux describe sourcing options. Their illustrations are reference images, not evidence of the tyres or wheels fitted to confirmed stock. Ask for the actual vehicle details when a supplier proposes a car.
Match the markings to the vehicle requirements
Obtain a photograph of the vehicle's tyre information label where available, together with the matching owner's manual information. Ask a tyre professional to compare the fitted equipment with the manufacturer's requirements for that vehicle. If the wheels have been changed, request details and an assessment of the proposed fitment.
Michelin's explanation of load and speed ratings shows that tyres with the same dimensions can have different load and speed ratings. A size description alone therefore leaves part of the specification unconfirmed. Record the full markings rather than selecting replacements from wheel diameter alone.
Describe the intended use to the assessor. A staff sedan and a pickup used by a fleet may have different requirements. Have the assessor explain the recommended specification instead of assuming that a tyre fitted to another car with the same model name will be suitable.
Request measured condition and clear findings
Ask the inspector to record tread measurements with units and the positions measured. Request photographs of any uneven wear or visible concerns, with both a wider view and a close-up. Have the report distinguish what was observed from checks that were not possible.
NHTSA's tyre guidance identifies cuts, cracking, bulges and irregular wear among reasons tyres may need replacement or professional attention. It also explains that appearance alone cannot reveal tyre ageing. Use the findings to request a professional assessment before accepting the vehicle's condition.
Avoid relying on a glossy sidewall image or one tread photograph for the whole set. Ask whether the inspection covered both accessible sidewalls, all fitted tyres and the supplied spare. Any restricted access should remain visible in the report. Use our broader dealer inspection checklist to organise related wheel, suspension and vehicle-condition questions.
Record age information and inspection limits
Where a DOT tyre identification number is present, request a readable image of the complete marking. NHTSA explains that its final four digits identify the manufacturing week and year. Ask the inspector to locate and explain the relevant marking if the first photograph does not show it.
Keep the manufacture information alongside the inspection date. Ask the tyre or vehicle manufacturer, or an appropriate professional, which replacement guidance applies. Do not turn the date code into a guarantee of remaining service life, or assume one age limit applies to every vehicle and destination.
If repair history is supplied, retain the details and ask the assessor what can be established about the repair. Record missing history as unknown. A purchasing reviewer should be able to see which conclusions came from documents and which came from the inspection.
Price agreed work before approving the quotation
Request a separate proposal for any tyres that need replacement. Ask for the exact specification, quantity and work included, plus the evidence you will receive after fitting. Have the workshop confirm any associated checks needed for the particular vehicle.
For pressure checks, NHTSA directs owners to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended values on the vehicle label or in the manual. Ask the workshop to record its reference and readings. An unresolved warning or pressure concern should be investigated before you treat the preparation as complete.
Confirm destination requirements with your local specialist. This checklist does not establish import eligibility or local roadworthiness. Keep approved replacement work and remaining costs visible when comparing export quotations.
Include the final record in the handover file
Before dispatch, request updated evidence for any agreed changes and confirm that it still belongs to the approved vehicle. Include the supplied spare and agreed accessories in the handover list. Our shipping condition report guide explains how to organise those records through collection and delivery.
To prepare a request, choose vehicle sourcing options, then state the years, quantity, destination and tyre evidence you require. The sourcing guide explains the quotation process. Actual availability, condition, inspection scope and preparation work need confirmation for the individual vehicles offered.