Tyre tread depth is a critical safety measure that every driver should know how to check. Here's the quick and easy way to test yours at home.
Tyre tread depth is one of the most significant safety factors on any vehicle, yet it is routinely overlooked. In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Most tyre safety experts and leading manufacturers recommend replacing tyres at 3mm however, particularly given the wet road conditions regularly experienced across Leeds and West Yorkshire throughout the year.
The easiest home check is the 20p test. Simply push a 20 pence coin into the main tread grooves in several places across the tyre. If the outer border of the coin is obscured by the tread, you are above the legal limit. If the full outer rim is visible, your tyre is at or near the minimum and should be replaced as a priority.
Driving on illegal tyres in Leeds carries penalties of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points. More importantly, worn tread dramatically increases stopping distances on wet roads — a very real hazard given the UK climate. If you want a professional assessment, our mobile tyre team can visit you at home or work in Leeds for a free tyre safety inspection.
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