The tread depth of your tyres is crucial for maintaining grip on the road, especially in wet conditions. When your tyres wear down, their ability to channel water away decreases, increasing the risk of aquaplaning. Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tyres and the road surface, causing a loss of traction that can lead to uncontrollable skidding.

In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth for car tyres is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread. However, many experts recommend changing your tyres when the tread depth reaches 3mm to maintain optimal safety. Tests have shown that braking distances on wet roads can be significantly longer with tyres that have tread depths below 3mm compared to those with deeper treads.

The Impact of Worn Tyres

Driving on worn tyres doesn’t just compromise your safety; it can also affect your car’s performance. Poor tread depth can lead to:

1. Longer Braking Distances: As mentioned earlier, reduced tread depth increases stopping distances, especially on wet roads.
2. Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Worn tyres can lead to increased rolling resistance, which means your car needs more energy (and fuel) to maintain speed.
3. Reduced Handling: Your car’s handling, especially in adverse weather conditions, can be significantly impaired by worn tyres.

How to Check Your Tread Depth

You can check your tyre tread depth easily with a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the main grooves of the tyre. If the outer rim of the coin is visible, your tread depth is likely below the legal limit and you should consider replacing your tyres.

Trust C&G Autos for Your Tyre Needs

At C&G Autos, we understand the importance of keeping your tyres in top condition. Our experts are trained to provide comprehensive tyre inspections and recommend the best tyres for your vehicle and driving style. Don’t wait until it’s too late—ensure your safety and performance on the road by booking a tyre check with us today.

Visit C&G Autos or call us at +44 1753 518727 to schedule your tyre inspection or replacement.