Tyre law in the UK is simple but strictly enforced - and the penalties surprise most drivers. Here is everything you need to stay legal.
The 1.6mm Rule
Your tyres must have at least 1.6mm of continuous tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tread width and around the entire circumference. Anything less makes the tyre illegal and your car unroadworthy.
The Twenty-Pence Test
Slide a 20p coin into your main grooves. If you can see the coin's outer band above the tread, your depth is likely under the legal limit and it is time for a professional check. Keep one in the glovebox - it takes seconds.
The Real Cost Of Illegal Tyres
- Fines of up to £2,500 per illegal tyre
- Three penalty points per tyre - up to twelve for a set of four
- Insurance potentially invalidated after an accident
- An automatic MOT failure
We Check For Free
No coin needed - drive into our Walsall depot and we will measure every tyre properly with a depth gauge, free of charge. If replacements are needed we will quote honestly for budget, mid-range or premium options.
Frequently Asked
Is 3mm tread legal?
Yes - legal, though stopping distances are already noticeably longer than fresh rubber. We suggest planning replacement around 3mm.
Do spare wheels need tread?
A spare carried on the vehicle must meet legal standards if used on the road, so check it occasionally too.