The Real Cost of Tyre damage in the UK

Key Takeaways

Updated: February 2026
This article was originally published in 2025 and has been updated to reflect current tyre pricing trends and the latest Total Loss GAP Tyre Insurance policy features. If you have 

Tyre replacement costs in the UK typically range from £90 to £500+ per tyre, depending on size, vehicle type and construction. Prices have continued to rise due to raw material costs, supply chain pressures and increased demand.

Tyre Insurance can help cover unexpected tyre damage from potholes, punctures and accidental impacts. Current Total Loss GAP policies can contribute up to £400 per replacement tyre (as shown on your policy schedule), allow up to 5 claims per policy year, and can be purchased at any time provided your vehicle meets eligibility criteria.

 

Why Are Tyres More Expensive in 2026?

Several structural factors continue to influence tyre pricing:

• Raw material costs: Natural rubber, synthetic rubber, oil derivatives and carbon black remain globally traded commodities. Volatility in these markets has a direct impact on manufacturing costs.
• Energy and transport costs: Manufacturing and shipping remain sensitive to fuel and labour costs, which have remained elevated compared to pre-2020 levels.
• Vehicle technology: Larger wheels, low-profile tyres and electric vehicle (EV) requirements have increased average tyre size and specification. EV tyres in particular often require reinforced construction to support greater vehicle weight and torque.
• Road conditions: Pothole-related damage continues to be widely reported across the UK. Seasonal temperature changes can accelerate road surface deterioration, increasing the likelihood of tyre impact damage.

The Average Cost of Tyre Replacement in the UK

The cost of a replacement tyre depends on brand, construction type, size and retailer. Broad market ranges currently include:

Tyre Type	Typical Cost Per Tyre
Standard Passenger Tyre	£90 – £300
Run-Flat Tyre	£170 – £450
Premium Performance Tyre	£200 – £500+
All-Season / Winter Tyre	£120 – £350
Electric Vehicle Tyre	£180 – £500+

Further Costs to Consider

• Wheel alignment and balancing: Often £50–£100 in addition to tyre cost.
• Multiple tyre replacement: Manufacturers may recommend replacing tyres in axle pairs, which can significantly increase overall expense.
• Recovery or call-out charges: If a vehicle is immobilised, recovery costs may apply.

The Hidden Risks of Driving on Damaged Tyres

• Reduced braking performance in wet or poor conditions.
• Increased fuel or energy consumption due to incorrect pressure or structural damage.
• Potential fines and penalty points: Driving on illegal tyres can result in fines and licence endorsements per tyre.

How Tyre Insurance Can Help Manage Rising Costs

As tyre prices increase, some drivers choose standalone Tyre Insurance to help manage unexpected bills.

• Contributes towards accidental or malicious tyre damage.
• Up to £400 per replacement tyre (as shown on your policy schedule).
• Up to £50 (including VAT) towards puncture repairs.
• Up to 5 claims per policy year.
• £10 excess per repair (waived where a call-out charge is paid for that repair).
• Cover available for vehicles up to 10 years old and 100,000 miles at policy start.
• Policies can be purchased at any time, subject to eligibility.

Where replacement is required, claims are assessed in line with policy terms and an equivalent specification tyre may be fitted, subject to availability.

Example Scenario

A driver damages two tyres after striking a pothole. If each replacement tyre costs £260 fitted, the total bill could reach £520. Subject to policy terms and authorisation, a tyre insurance policy could contribute towards those costs up to the applicable per-tyre limit.

Who Is Eligible for Tyre Insurance?

• Vehicle up to 10 years old at start date
• Up to 100,000 miles
• Tyre size up to and including 21 inches
• Electric vehicles eligible (subject to criteria)

Always refer to the IPID and policy wording for full eligibility, exclusions and territorial limits.

Is Tyre Insurance Worth It?

• May be suitable if:
  • You drive frequently on poor road surfaces.
  • Your vehicle uses larger, premium or run-flat tyres.
  • You prefer predictable budgeting for unexpected repairs.
• May be less suitable if:
  • Your tyres are inexpensive and easy to replace.
  • You drive very low annual mileage.
  • Your finance agreement already includes tyre cover.

You can obtain an instant quotation online here: Click for a Tyre Insurance Quote

 

Underwriter: Helvetia Global Solutions Ltd (UK Branch).

Total Loss GAP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 821163).