The Motor Ombudsman’s ‘WORN-WARN’ Campaign Wins TyreSafe Online & Social Media Award

The Motor Ombudsman has been recognised at the 2026 TyreSafe Awards after its ‘WORN-WARN’ campaign received the Online & Social Media Award, highlighting the growing importance of educating motorists about the dangers of part-worn tyres.

The Michelin-sponsored award was presented during TyreSafe’s 20th anniversary gala dinner at The Belfry Hotel & Resort in Warwickshire, recognising campaigns that have successfully used digital platforms to improve public understanding of tyre safety.

Raising Awareness of Part-Worn Tyre Risks

Launched earlier this year at the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, the ‘WORN-WARN’ campaign was created to address the increasing number of motorists considering part-worn tyres as a lower-cost alternative to new replacements.

Research commissioned by The Motor Ombudsman found that almost one in three UK adults would consider buying part-worn tyres when replacing worn-out tyres, with financial pressures being the primary motivation. The research also highlighted that younger drivers were even more likely to consider purchasing second-hand tyres, underlining the need for greater consumer education.

To support the campaign, The Motor Ombudsman developed a comprehensive online tyre information hub featuring:

• Practical tyre maintenance advice
• Educational videos
• Guidance on legal tyre requirements
• Information about the dangers of part-worn tyres
• Downloadable digital resources for motorists

The campaign was also supported by accredited garage group Lindleys Autocentres and promoted extensively across digital and social media channels.

Recognition for Effective Safety Messaging

The latest award marks The Motor Ombudsman’s third success in the Online & Social Media category and follows last year’s victory for its “Make Time for Tyres” campaign, demonstrating the organisation’s continued commitment to promoting tyre safety.

Vanessa Horsey, Senior Marketing Manager at The Motor Ombudsman, said the campaign was created in response to the increasing financial pressures facing motorists, which could encourage drivers to prioritise lower costs over vehicle safety.

She added that while the campaign has already achieved significant reach, there remains considerable work to educate motorists about the risks associated with fitting part-worn tyres.

TyreSafe Chair Stuart Lovatt praised the campaign’s ability to turn complex tyre safety guidance into clear, practical advice that resonated with motorists across digital platforms.

According to the judges, the campaign successfully combined engaging online content with trusted educational resources to create meaningful conversations around tyre safety and reach millions of UK drivers.

Why This Matters for Independent Garages

For independent garages and MOT testing stations, the award highlights the increasingly important role workshops play in educating customers about tyre safety.

While part-worn tyres can be sold legally in the UK if they meet strict regulations, many are found to be unsafe or incorrectly marked. During routine servicing, tyre replacements and MOT inspections, garages remain well placed to explain the risks of worn or poorly maintained tyres and help motorists make informed decisions.

As cost-of-living pressures continue to influence vehicle maintenance choices, clear advice from trusted repairers is likely to become even more valuable in helping improve road safety.

With tyre defects remaining one of the most common MOT failures, campaigns such as ‘WORN-WARN’ reinforce the importance of regular tyre inspections and responsible replacement practices across the aftermarket sector.