Ensuring your vehicle’s tyres are roadworthy is essential for safety and a legal requirement in the UK. One of the most important aspects of tyre maintenance is tread depth, which directly affects grip, braking performance, and overall handling. But how deep does your tread need to be, and does the law differ for cars and vans? Here’s what you need to know.
What is the Legal Tread Depth?
In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth for car tyres is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre’s width and around the entire circumference. This regulation is in place to ensure sufficient grip on the road, particularly in wet conditions where reduced tread depth increases the risk of aquaplaning.
For vans and light commercial vehicles, the same legal minimum of 1.6mm applies. However, because vans often carry heavier loads and experience more wear, it is advisable to replace tyres well before reaching the legal limit to maintain optimal safety and performance.
How is Tread Depth Checked During an MOT?
When a vehicle undergoes its annual MOT test, one of the key checks is the condition of the tyres, including tread depth. If any tyre is found to have less than 1.6mm of tread, the vehicle will fail its MOT, making it illegal to drive until the issue is rectified. Even if a tyre is above the legal limit but deemed dangerously worn or damaged, an advisory notice may be issued, indicating that replacement is needed soon.
Penalties for Driving with Illegal Tyres
Driving with tyres below the legal tread depth can result in a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points on your licence. If all four tyres are below the legal limit, this could lead to a total of £10,000 in fines and 12 penalty points, which is enough to result in a driving ban.
Recommended Tread Depth for Safety
While the legal minimum is 1.6mm, many experts, including tyre manufacturers and safety organisations, recommend replacing tyres when the tread reaches 3mm. Studies have shown that braking distances in wet conditions significantly increase as tread depth decreases, meaning that changing tyres earlier can improve road safety.
How to Check Your Tyre Tread Depth
An easy way to check tyre tread depth is by using a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the grooves of the tread—if the outer band of the coin is visible, your tread is likely below 1.6mm and needs replacing immediately. Alternatively, tread depth gauges provide a more precise measurement.
Covering Your Lease with Optional Maintenance Packages
To ensure your car or van remains roadworthy throughout the length of the agreement, you can opt for a maintenance package that covers your tyres throughout the agreement by offering you replacement tyres (subject to fair wear and tear).
All makes and models are eligible for the comprehensive maintenance package that includes replacement tyres, routine servicing, and MOTs where required.
Not only does a maintenance package give you or your drivers peace of mind, it also provides a fixed cost throughout the length of the lease agreement, meaning there are no hidden surprises.
If you are interested in exploring your leasing options with an additional maintenance package, fill out the form below with some basic details and our team will be in touch.
Answering Your Motoring Questions
The legal minimum tread depth for car tyres is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre’s width and around the entire circumference.
No, vans and light commercial vehicles must also have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. However, due to increased wear, replacing them earlier is advisable.
If your tyres are below the legal limit, you could face a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points on your licence. Your vehicle will also fail its MOT.
You can use a 20p coin by inserting it into the tyre grooves. If the outer band is visible, your tread is below 1.6mm and needs replacing. Alternatively, a tread depth gauge provides a more precise reading.
No, motorcycles over 50cc require a minimum tread depth of 1.0mm across three-quarters of the width, while motorcycles under 50cc must have a visible tread pattern.
Yes, if any tyre has less than 1.6mm of tread depth, your vehicle will fail the MOT, and you will need to replace the tyre before the vehicle is roadworthy.
Experts recommend replacing tyres at 3mm because braking performance, especially in wet conditions, declines significantly as tread wears down.