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40% of UK drivers are not confident checking their tyre tread

20th June 2023
A man holding a tyre

New research has revealed that 40% of UK drivers can’t confidently check their tyre tread depth.

Over half of 18-34 year olds do not know how to check that their tread is within the legal limit, and over a third of 35-54 year olds also feel uncertain.

Checking your tread is easy to do at home yourself, and it could save you time and money. 

The simplest method is the 20p test. You’re looking for the tread to be above 1.6mm, otherwise it’s time to change your tyre. 

Take a 20p and place it upright into the main grooves of the tyre. If the outer band of the coin is obscured by the tyre, then the tread is within the legal limit. However if it is clearly visible, your tyres are likely to be illegal and will need replacing as soon as possible.

Failing to carry out regular checks on your tyres could put you at risk of a hefty fine of £2,500 per tyre and up to 3 penalty points if stopped by the police.

For more advice on how to check your tyre tread and other handy tips on regular tyre maintenance, contact your local Landsail dealer or check out Landsail Tyre Teacher Fuzz Townshend 

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