How to check the tread depth on your tyres!

Added: 15 March 2019

Do you know how to check the tyre tread depth on your vehicle?

According to our ongoing Twitter poll only 56% of drivers knew how to check the tyre tread depth on their vehicle.
The legal tyre limit for the minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, however it is recommended that you change your tyres before the legal limit is reached to prevent any accidents. We recommend you change your tyres once the tread reaches 3mm.

With 44% of drivers unaware of how to check their tyre depth we have put together a short video tutorial to demonstrate how easy it is for you to do this at home. All you need is a 20p coin.

There are several different indicators your tyres may need replacing, see our list below to see if your vehicle is showing any signs:

• The tyre is flat.

• The tyre has signs of wear, such as cuts in the tread or sidewall.

• The tyres MUST have a tread depth of 1.6mm - below could result in £2,500 fine per tyre and 3 penalty points.

• Bulges in the sidewall.

• Uneven wear patterns - this could mean your tyres are unbalanced.

• If the tyre is worn on the outside - this could just mean it needs to be inflated or a possible leak. Check your tyre pressure regularly.

If you’re unsure how to check them yourself, call in to a HiQ branch and they’ll be happy to perform a free tyre check! Click here to find your nearest branch.