The Bald Tyre
A bald tyre is when the tread has either worn down to below the legal minimum or worn away completely. A tyre’s ‘tread’ refers to the grooves along the outer surface that help you maintain grip on the road.
Although 1.6mm is the legal minimum tread depth, it’s advisable to replace your tyres a lot sooner. Reduced tyre tread can lead to the following:
* Reduced traction
* Increased stopping distances
* Greater risk of aquaplaning
* More prone to punctures
* Penalty points and fines
Therefore, it’s essential to check the condition of your tyres regularly.
Penalty Points for Bald Tyres
Bald tyres can result in 3 penalty points and a £2,500 fine per illegal tyre. In addition, driving with bald tyres is extremely dangerous, and it could also result in losing your driving license and leave you with huge fines.
How do I know if my Tyres are Bald?
Tyre tread can be measured by using a tread depth gauge, checking your tread wear indicators, or using the 20p coin test.
A Tread Depth Gauge
A tread depth gauge is used to help assess wear on your tyres much more accurately. You can measure the tread depth across the full circumference of the tyre.
Tread Wear Indicators
Tread wear indicators are small, raised areas at the bottom of the tyre grooves. If the tread is worn down and level with the raised areas, it means the tread depth is near the legal limit.
20p Coin
Although not the most accurate method, roughly you can see if your tyre tread depth is low by placing a 20p coin into the grooves of the tyre.
If you can see the outer band of the coin once inserted, the tread depth is low, and your tyres need replacing.
Preventing Bald Tyres
Therefore to avoid your tyre tread depth becoming too low, it’s important to check your tyres regularly and ensure they remain legal and road-safe.
You can also call into our garage at Tudhoe, Durham, should you have any concerns and we will be happy to check them for you.
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