Regularly measuring tyre tread depth is crucial for the vehicle and we must take into account the right measurement to stay safe on the road. As a reminder, the legal depth is at least 1.6 mm.
How to correctly measure the tyre tread depth?
1° Using a tyre tread gauge
To measure how deep the tread of the tyre is you can use a tread depth gauge, which is a simple tool designed for it.
You can buy it from an automotive store or even online. It is very simple to use.
Insert the probe into several tread grooves across the tyre. The tool will provide precise measurement of how much millimetres is left of the tread depth.
2° Using a ruler or a coin
You can also use a ruler or a coin. The ruler will give exact measurements but don’t forget the space before the 0 which shouldn’t be counted in. For the coin, use a 10c or 20c coin which you can insert in the depth.
The trick is to measure several areas of the tyre and not just once, this will guarantee an accurate assessment
3° Using the wear bars
They are always present on a tyre. Once the tread depth is low it can be checked by examining the wear bars. They are positioned across the tread grooves. If the wear bars are flush with the tread, it indicates that the tyre has reached the minimum tread depth and should be replaced. You can find a Tyre shop near you to get your tyres changed.
Yes. Until 1.6mm is acceptable, but below that measure, the tyre should be changed because it is considered the legal minimum measurement for safety reasons.
How long does 1 mm of tyre tread last?
The answer is not common to all tyres because of the tyre itself, the driving style, the weather and road conditions. On average though, 1mm of tyre tread can last between 4800 and 8000 km.
Why should I measure tyre tread depth?
Measuring tyre tread depth and changing tyres in accordance can prevent risks of grip loss, increase of braking distance and aquaplaning. A shallow tread depth can cause worn tyres and they will need to be replaced.
When should I measure tyre tread depth?
Regularly, but especially when the driving feels different, when the driving is aggressive and high-speed, if the road is rough or abrasive and before winter. Winter tyres are more efficient when the tyre depth is deep enough for a safe grip.