One of the most essential tests that you can perform on your vehicle is to examine the depth of the tread that is allowed by law there knowing the minimum legal tread depth is crucial.

So,

What is the minimum legal tread depth for a car?

As your vehicle’s only road contact is its tyres. Thus, tyre condition is crucial to safety.

The tread depth that is considered to be the minimum required by law varies according to the kind of vehicle. In the United Kingdom, 1.6 millimetres of tread depth is the bare requirement for automobile tyres.

When it comes to determining the condition of your tyres, it can be helpful to be familiar with the various types of tread wear patterns that can occur.

So, How can you check the tread depth of your tyres?

Use a tread depth gauge for quick, uncomplicated measurements.

Look for any sign of damage when gauging the tread depth. If you notice any damages, you should get your car checked out at a reputable tyre shop to determine whether or not the problem can be fixed or if you need to get new car tyres.

Try the 20P test if you don’t have a gauge.

Insert a 20p penny into the tyre where the tread is the thinnest. If you are unable to see the outside ring around the coin’s edge, this indicates that your tyre has a tread depth of at least 3 millimetres and is secure. If you are able to see the rim of your tyres, the tread depth is less than 3 millimetres and you should get your tyres inspected by a specialist. When it comes to traction, more tread is always better.

Don’t forget the Tread Wear Indicator

The main grooves in the tyre tread contain wear indicators that are evenly spaced apart from one another. In case of uneven wear, inspect the tyre in a number of different spots.If they have worn down to the tread level, you should get new tyres.

Note Well: If your tyre treads are below 3 millimetres, you should check them more often. Tyres should be changed before the tread reaches 2 millimetres of remaining depth to maintain the minimum legal tread depth. The minimum thickness required by law is just 1.6mm, but anything under 3mm may significantly reduce performance and safety.
It is important to keep in mind that tyres with a shallow tread depth have a very low level of traction in wet and snowy conditions.

You need to develop the habit of checking on the health of your vehicle on a regular basis, paying particular attention to the tyre pressure and the straightness of the wheels as it is essential to have dependable tyres that promote safe driving.