Regularly checking the tread on all four of your tyres can help diagnose potential problems, as well as avoiding unexpected tyre indicator lights on the dashboard or not passing an MOT. Check them at least once a month, as well as before and after long journeys.
Tyre tread is vitally important for grip, traction and resistance to aquaplaning. Uneven wear might be a sign of incorrect tyre pressure or a wheel alignment issue.
In the UK, the legal limit of tyre tread is 1.6mm, but it’s important to check tyres regularly and keep them well maintained. For winter tyres, you should consider changing your tyres at 4mm of tread.
1. Park your vehicle on a flat and level surface. Make sure the handbrake is engaged and the vehicle is in park or in gear.
2. Remove the hubcap or wheel cover from the tyre.
3. Using a tread depth gauge measure the depth of the treads in several locations around the tyre, or use the 20p coin trick.
4. Look for any signs of wear or damage to the tyres, such as cuts, bulges, or cracking.
5. Look for any uneven wear on the tyre, you can check the TWI (Tyre Wear Indicator) sidewall markings which will line up with the tyres tread wear indicators.
6. Check the tyre pressure using a tyre pressure gauge to make sure it is at the correct level.
7. If necessary, adjust the pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendation.
8. Reinstall the hubcap or wheel cover and replace any valve stem caps that were removed.
An easy way to check the tread depth of your tyres is with a 20p coin. Place the edge of the coin into the main tread groove of your tyre. If the outer band of the 20p coin is visible, then the tread depth is below the UK legal limit of 1.6mm. If the inner band of the 20p coin is visible, then the tread depth is above the legal limit. It is important to regularly check tyre tread depth to ensure that your tyres are safe and legal.
To use a depth gauge, insert the end of the gauge into the tread of the tyre and press down until the gauge is level with the tread surface. Read the measurement on the gauge, which is typically in millimetres, and compare it to the legal limit. If the tread depth is below the legal limit, it’s time for a replacement.
Measuring tyre tread depth with wear indicators is a simple process. To begin, locate the tread wear indicator on your tyres which can be bars or shapes. The tread wear indicator bars are in the grooves of the tyre tread, and they sit at the same level as the treadwear indicators. By looking at the top of each tread wear indicator bar to the bottom of the main tread block you can check to see how close they to the legal limit.
In the UK, the legal minimum tyre tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. It is important to check your tyre tread depth regularly, as reduced tread depth could impact tyre performance in wet conditions, potentially leading to a greater risk of aquaplaning. If you have an accident with illegal tyres, you may be subject to a fine, points on your license, or even vehicle impoundment. Illegal tyres are unsafe, and your vehicle's performance and safety will be affected. To ensure your safety and peace of mind, it is important to always use tyres that meet the legal requirements for your vehicle.
Looking for more information on tyre care? Read our Guide to Tyres for tips and advice on maintaining, and even extending the lifespan of your tyres.
*20%/11,000km higher mileage than next best tested competitor. Mileage (i.e., until legal treadwear limit is reached) compared to four latest designs from competitors in summer HP segment (Michelin Primacy 4, Continental PremiumContact 6, Bridgestone Turanza T005, Pirelli Cinturato P7 Blue). Tested by TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH in November 2019 by order of Goodyear. Tyre size tested: 205/55R16 91V; Test car: VW Golf Mk7; Test location: open roads in central Germany. Report number: 713171748. Full report available at: https://www.goodyear.eu/en_gb/consumer/tire-test-reports/tire-test-reports-summer.html
