UK Tyre Law Information
UK Tyre Tread Depth Requirements​
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For passenger cars and light commercial vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) up to 3500kg, the legal minimum tread depth on your tyres should be no less than 1.6mm, across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tread, in a continuous band around the entire circumference of the tyre.

 

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Your vehicle should be fitted with the correct type and size of tyre for the purpose it is being used. They should also be inflated to the correct manufacturers recommended pressure for the load they carry.

 

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The Penalties ​

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Under current law, the penalty for tyres worn below the legal minimum limit is three penalty points ​

and a maximum of £2500 in fines per tyre!​

 

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Should I wait until a tyre reaches 1.6mm of depth? ​

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No!! A tyre loses its effectivity in the wet dramatically when below 3mm of remaining depth. ​

 

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  At and around 1.6mm of depth, a tyre will be unable to dispurse water quick enough to avoid potential aquaplaning and loss of control. Should your tyres depth be less than 3mm but greater than 1.6mm of remaining depth, we recommend immediate replacement or that you adjust your driving style and speed in wet conditions