How to check your tyre tread

To avoid such risks, it is important to check the depth of the tyre tread regularly, but what is the legal tyre tread depth? In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth for car tyres is 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tyre tread, around the entire circumference of the tyre. However, experts recommend replacing tyres before they reach the legal minimum, as the performance and safety of the tyre can be compromised before that point.

To check the tyre tread depth, you can use a tyre tread depth gauge, a small tool that measures the depth of the tread grooves. Alternatively, you can use the "20p test," which involves inserting a 20p coin into the tread groove with the outer band facing down. If you can see the coin's outer band, the tread is too shallow, and the tyre should be replaced.

Regularly checking the tread depth of your tyres is crucial for maintaining their performance and safety, and can help you avoid potential accidents on the road. It is recommended to check the tread depth at least once a month to ensure that your tyres are in good condition.