TYRE TECH 1

UK Laws on Driving with Worn Tyres: What You Need to Know

Driving with worn tyres is not only dangerous but also illegal in the UK. Tyres are a critical safety component of any vehicle, and their condition directly impacts braking, steering, and overall road safety. To ensure the safety of all road users, the UK has strict laws governing tyre tread depth and condition. Here’s everything you need to know about the legal requirements, the penalties for non-compliance, and why maintaining your tyres is so important.

​

What Does the Law Say About Worn Tyres?

Under UK law, tyres must meet specific standards to be considered roadworthy. The key legal requirements are:

1. Minimum Tread Depth
   The legal minimum tread depth for car tyres in the UK is 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. This applies to all tyres on the vehicle, including the spare.

2. Tyres Must Be in Good Condition
   Tyres must be free from cuts, bulges, or other damage that could compromise their safety. Any visible damage or wear that exposes the tyre’s cords or structure makes the tyre illegal.

3. Correct Tyre Size and Type
   Tyres must be appropriate for the vehicle and fitted correctly. Mixing tyre types (e.g., radial and cross-ply) on the same axle is prohibited.

4. Inflation Pressure
   While not explicitly part of the tread depth law, tyres must be inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can lead to poor handling and increased wear.

​

Why Is Tread Depth So Important?

Tyre tread is designed to provide grip and channel water away from the contact patch between the tyre and the road. Worn tyres with insufficient tread depth significantly increase the risk of:

• Aquaplaning (losing grip on wet roads)

• Longer braking distances

• Reduced control in corners and during emergencies

• Increased likelihood of punctures or blowouts

The difference between a tyre with 1.6mm of tread and one with 3mm of tread can be staggering. For example, stopping distances on wet roads can double as tread depth decreases.

​

What Are the Penalties for Driving with Worn Tyres?

Driving with illegal tyres can result in severe penalties, including fines and penalty points on your driving licence. The specific penalties are:

• Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN):
  If caught driving with worn or defective tyres, you could receive a £100 fine and 3 penalty pointson your licence per tyre. This means if all four tyres are illegal, you could face a £400 fine and 12 penalty points, which could lead to a driving ban.

• Court Prosecution:
  In more serious cases, or if the offence is deemed severe enough, you could be taken to court. The maximum penalty for driving with illegal tyres is a £2,500 fine and 3 penalty points per tyre. For example, if all four tyres are illegal, you could face a £10,000 fine and 12 penalty points.

• Insurance Implications:
  Driving with illegal tyres can also invalidate your car insurance. If you’re involved in an accident and your tyres are found to be below the legal limit, your insurer may refuse to cover the costs, leaving you personally liable.

​

How to Check Your Tyres

To avoid fines and ensure your safety, regularly check your tyres for wear and damage:

1. Use a Tread Depth Gauge:
   Measure the tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tyre. If it’s below 1.6mm, the tyre needs to be replaced immediately.

2. The 20p Test:
   Insert a 20p coin into the tread grooves. If the outer band of the coin is visible, your tread depth is likely below the legal limit.

3. Look for Damage:
   Check for cuts, bulges, or embedded objects that could compromise the tyre’s integrity.

4. Check Inflation:
   Ensure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure, as specified in your vehicle’s handbook.

​

Tips for Maintaining Your Tyres

• Rotate your tyres regularly to ensure even wear.

• Replace tyres before they reach the legal minimum tread depth (experts recommend replacing them at 3mm for optimal safety).

• Always replace tyres in pairs or sets to maintain balanced handling.

• Regularly check your spare tyre to ensure it’s roadworthy.

​

Conclusion

Driving with worn tyres is a serious offence in the UK, and for good reason. Worn tyres compromise your safety and that of other road users, increasing the risk of accidents. By ensuring your tyres meet the legal requirements, you can avoid hefty fines, penalty points, and potential driving bans. More importantly, you’ll be driving safely and responsibly. Remember, your tyres are the only part of your car that touches the road—keep them in good condition, and they’ll keep you safe.

New chat