How do I check tyre tread depth?

Your tread depth and how to check it

Checking your tread depth is an important safety check to ensure that you are safe on the road. There are two simple methods that are available to all drivers.

20p test

This is the easiest and fastest way to check your tread depth:

• Get a 20p coin and place it in the tread grooves of the tyre
• If you can see the outer band of the coin above the tread, this means that your tyres could be below or close to the legal limit
• If the outer band of the coin is covered by the tread, then that means that you have more than 1.6mm

Check the tread in different areas of the tyre to make sure that the wear is even.

Using a tread depth gauge

For a more accurate measurement of tread depth, buy a tread depth gauge. These can be found at any shop that sells car accessories. Place the gauge into the grooves of the tread and read the measurement. Make sure to check at least three points on the tyre to make sure the wear is even.

What is the minimum depth that is safe?

The law in the UK states that the minimum depth for car tyres is 1.6mm on the centre three quarters of the tread. However, many safety organisations state that tyres should be replaced before they reach 3mm of tread depth, as this affects the vehicle's ability to brake in wet conditions.