How To Check Tyre Tread Depth
Worn tread reduces grip, especially in the wet. Tread wear indicators and a simple gauge show how much is left.
DifficultyEasy
TimeAbout 5 minutes
AreaTyres and wheels
What you need
- Tread depth gaugeInexpensive and more accurate than a coin.
- TorchHelpful for inner edges.
Step by step
- Find the tread wear indicatorsSmall raised bars in the main grooves, often marked TWI on the sidewall.
- Measure in several placesAcross the width and around the tyre.
- Compare with the legal minimumIt varies by country; in the EU it is generally 1.6 mm for passenger cars.
- Look for uneven wearWear on one edge or in patches points to pressure, alignment or suspension problems.
- Check the sidewallsLook for cuts, bulges and cracks.A bulge on the sidewall means the tyre must be replaced.
When to go to a workshop
Replace tyres before they reach the legal limit if grip matters to you; many experts suggest earlier replacement, especially for winter tyres. Have alignment checked if wear is uneven.
Questions about How To Check Tyre Tread Depth
Is the legal minimum enough?
It is a legal limit, not a safety target. Wet grip drops noticeably as tread wears.
Do old tyres need replacing?
Rubber ages over time. Check the manufacturing date on the sidewall and follow the tyre maker’s advice.