A third of UK tyres are worn part of the legal limit
18th October 2024
As we look to raise awareness during Tyre Safety Month, it seems more fitting than ever to talk about the importance of looking after your tyres, especially when a recent study found some drivers continue to allow their tyres to wear beyond the legal limit, with more than a third of tyres are worn past the legal limit.*
In detail: What the study revealed
The study by HiQ analysed 13,800 tyre changes and measured the proportion of tyres being changed due to tread depth being beyond the 1.6mm legal threshold. It asked managers from HiQ Tyres & Autocare stores to record the proportion of tyres replaced due to excessive wear.
From the sample, it was found 36% of tyre changes happen because of excessive wear, defined as tyres being beyond the 1.6mm legal limit – and the continued importance of educating motorists on how and why to look after their tyres.
Interestingly, data revealed a clear divide between the north and south of the UK – in the North (including North East, North West, Scotland, and Yorkshire), the proportion of wear-related tyre changes was 40%, almost 74% higher than the south. Meanwhile, in southern regions (London, East Anglia, South East and South West), 23% of tyre changes were prompted by excessive wear. The Midlands fell in between with 33%.
Why is it important to look after your tyres?
Making sure you don’t drive on tyres which are beyond the legal limit is crucial for several reasons, each contributing to safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Safety:
Well-maintained tyres provide better traction and control, especially in adverse weather conditions. Proper tread depth ensures that your tyres can grip the road surface effectively, reducing the risk of skidding and hydroplaning.
Fuel efficiency:
Properly inflated tyres with a legal level of tread reduce rolling resistance, meaning the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to move the vehicle. This leads to better fuel efficiency and can save you money on fuel costs in the long run.
Performance:
Tyres in good condition ensure that your vehicle operates at peak performance, helping you get the most miles per gallon. Regular maintenance like alignment and rotation helps maintain even wear, contributing to better fuel economy.
Tips on how to make sure you’re within the legal limit
With it vitally important from a safety perspective and to ensure you are driving legally on the road, there is a quick and easy way to check your tyre wear – the 20p test.
Simply 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 you can see the outer band of the coin, your tyres are likely to be illegal and will need replacing as soon as possible. Read about this test in more detail here.
Alternatively, you can also check the tread depth by using a depth gauge.
These simple tests could save you risking safety and a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre and three licence penalty points, according to the DVLA.
If you are interested in looking for more ways to maintain your tyres, visit our blog
