More tread means more grip. It’s as simple as that.
The legal minimum tread depth for cars in the Ireland and the UK is 1.6mm throughout a continuous band comprising the central three-quarters of breadth of the tread and around its entire outer circumference.
Even though the legal limit is 1.6mm, anything under 3mm can seriously compromise performance and safety.
Drivers who have tyres with less than the minimum tread depth risk a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre in the UK and in Ireland face a fixed charge of €80 and points on their license.
Follow First Stop's advice on how to check your tyres:
Use a dedicated tread gauge – a tool to give you a fast, easy-to-read measurement.
- Check your tread depth on all tyres, don't forget the spare if you have one.
- Check the inner, outer and centre of each tyre.
