What Are the Legal Limits for Tyres

Essentially, if you are a safe driver, read the road well and take turns at a reasonable speed, mixing the tires is fine and little difference is noticed. A sports car driver who drives a little faster is likely to benefit from the same tire brand and tire model on each wheel. Consult your vehicle`s manual or seek professional advice if in doubt. If you`re replacing a single tire, make sure it`s the same size and speed as your other tires. Car tyre repairs can only be carried out by a tyre specialist and in accordance with the UK standard AU159 in force. Permanent repairs can only be done after the tire has been removed from the wheel to allow for thorough inspection both inside and outside to ensure there is no hidden damage that could lead to catastrophic failure. While UK Tyre Law states that a wheel must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, most automotive experts would recommend replacing a tyre once the tread reaches 2-3mm. This is confirmed by the RoSPA study, which showed that the braking distance on smooth concrete increases by 44.6% to the legal minimum tread depth. The legal minimum tread depth for cars in the UK is 1.6mm in a continuous strip that covers the central three-quarters of the tread width and its entire outer perimeter. In wet weather, tread grooves help remove water from the contact surface between your tires and the road surface, allowing your car to brake, steer and accelerate properly. In the United States, tires are required by law to have easily recognizable tread wear indicators. If the tread pattern wears out, it eventually becomes the same as the tread wear indicator. At this point, the tire needs to be replaced.

It has too little tread to provide traction. If safety wasn`t convincing enough, remember that it`s also illegal to drive with bare tires. In wet weather, tread grooves help remove water from the contact surface between your tires and the road surface, allowing your car to brake, steer and accelerate properly. Without sufficient tread depth, your tires may not function properly in wet conditions, reducing your safety on the road. It is therefore advisable to consider replacing your tires well before they reach the legal minimum. For safety reasons, it is recommended to replace your tires before the legal limit is reached. Many car manufacturers recommend a 3-millimeter exchange. It`s always best to play it safe! There is no legal obligation to carry a spare tire and the condition of the tire has no effect as long as it remains a spare tire. Once installed, however, it must comply with British law. Before checking the condition of your tires, make sure that you are on a flat surface, with sufficient distance from the curbs, the car is turned off and securely fixed with the parking brake.

However, driving with dangerous or faulty tyres also carries the risk of a fine of up to £2,500 and three points on their licence. If you cannot see the outer strip on the part, your tires will be above the legal limit. Worn tires are especially dangerous in wet conditions, as a tire`s tread helps divert water from the contact surface between the tire and the road. Tests carried out by the British technical organisation MIRA have shown that the braking distance increases considerably as soon as the tyres are less than 3 mm. When replacing tubeless tires, the valves must be replaced or maintained. When checking or adjusting the air pressure, always make sure that the valve is not leaking. A new cap of the gasket type must be attached. In this article, we discuss how to check tread depth, what the legal limit is, and what causes uneven tire wear.

Another easy way to measure tread depth. You can use the 20p test quick and easy. Insert a 20p part into the lowest tread depth of your tires. If you can`t see the outer edge around the edge of the part, your tire is safe and has a tread depth of at least 3mm. If you can see the rim, your tread is less than 3mm and should be checked by a professional. It is very easy to forget about the condition and wear of tires. Potential problems that arise from tire negligence can not only result in penalty points on your driver`s license, but also hefty fines in extreme circumstances. The correct tire pressure for your vehicle can be found in your vehicle`s manual and should be used when the tire pressure is cold. Often two tire pressures are given, one for normal use and one for heavy load. If you no longer have the vehicle manual, the vehicle manufacturer can provide you with this information as well as a tire replacement shop.

Some tires have indicators printed on the wall of the tire itself, usually with a line or arrow positioned somewhere under the outer tread. Tyre fitting and repair should only be carried out by a qualified tyre specialist who has the necessary equipment and expertise. Improper installation can lead to driver injuries and damage to tires and rims. Wheels should be balanced or replaced based on tire pressure. Remember: – Check the tread depth of all four tires – Check the interior, center and exterior tires. In an ideal world, you should check the depth and tread pressure of your tire at least once every two weeks and at least once a month. Safe and correct walks are crucial, especially over long distances and on motorways. Book a free tire check More tread means more grip. Keep in mind that although the legal limit is 1.6mm, anything less than 3mm can seriously affect performance and safety.

The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm on a continuous tread that covers the central three-quarters of the tread width and bypasses its entire circumference. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial, as too low or too high tire pressure can quickly increase wear and affect your car`s handling. Tread drawing marks are available on most tires, as shown in the diagram. If the tread pattern is at the same level as the markers, the tyre reaches its legal minimum limit. When checking tires, make sure there are no deep cuts on the sidewalls and no bulges. READ MORE: Should I buy winter tires? Advantages, disadvantages and costs explained Unladen tires cause the opposite when the outside of the tire wears out faster than the center. PSI tires (pounds per square inch) can be found in the vehicle manual. Tire pressure should be checked regularly and especially before a long journey. Check tire pressure when tires are cold.

If the tire is flush with these, it is below the legal limit and must be replaced.