Bald Tyres – Why You Should Check Them Regularly! Your tyres are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. They are the only part of your car that makes contact with the road, so keeping them in good condition is essential.
At Crescent Motoring Services in Burton-on-Trent, we regularly see tyres that are worn beyond the legal limit. Not only can this put you and your passengers at risk, but it could also result in a failed MOT, fines and penalty points.
Here’s why it’s important to check your tyres regularly:
Why Tyre Tread Matters
The tread on your tyres is designed to grip the road and disperse water. As tyres wear down, they become less effective at:
- Braking safely
- Maintaining grip in wet weather
- Cornering confidently
- Reducing the risk of aquaplaning
The less tread your tyres have, the longer it takes your vehicle to stop – especially in the rain.
What Is the Legal Tyre Tread Depth?
In the UK, the legal minimum tyre tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its entire circumference.
However, many safety experts recommend replacing tyres when they reach around 3mm, particularly if you regularly drive in wet conditions.
Although your tyres may still be legal at 1.6mm, their performance will have reduced considerably compared to when they were new.
An Easy Way to Check Your Tyres
One of the easiest ways to check your tyre tread at home is using a 20p coin.
The 20p Test
Simply insert a 20p coin into the main tread grooves.
- ✅ If the outer band of the coin is hidden, your tread is likely above the legal limit.
- ❌ If you can clearly see the outer band, your tyres may be approaching or below the legal limit and should be checked by a professional.
It’s a quick check that only takes a few seconds.
Other Things to Look For
Tread depth isn’t the only thing to inspect.
Keep an eye out for:
- Cuts or splits in the tyre
- Bulges in the sidewall
- Cracks caused by age
- Nails or other objects embedded in the tyre
- Uneven wear across the tread
These can all affect the safety and performance of your vehicle.
Don’t Forget Your Tyre Pressures as well as Bald Tyres
While you’re checking your tyres, it’s also worth checking the tyre pressures.
Incorrect tyre pressures can lead to:
- Poor fuel economy
- Uneven tyre wear
- Reduced handling
- Increased stopping distances
Your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressures can usually be found:
- Inside the driver’s door
- In your owner’s handbook
- Sometimes inside the petrol cap
How Often Should You Check Your Tyres?
We recommend checking your tyres:
✔ At least once a month
✔ Before long journeys
✔ Before family holidays
✔ After hitting a pothole or kerb
A few minutes spent checking your tyres could save you from an expensive repair or dangerous situation.
We’re Happy to Check Them for You
If you’re unsure whether your tyres are safe or you do have Bald Tyres, pop into Crescent Motoring Services.
Our experienced technicians will happily inspect:
- Tyre tread depth
- Tyre pressures
- Overall tyre condition
- Signs of uneven wear
- Wheel alignment issues
We’ll always give you honest advice and only recommend replacements if they’re genuinely needed.
Stay Safe on the Road
Your tyres play a huge part in keeping you, your passengers and other road users safe.
Regular checks can help:
✔ Improve braking performance
✔ Increase grip in wet weather
✔ Save money through even tyre wear
✔ Keep your vehicle roadworthy
✔ Give you peace of mind
If you’d like us to check your tyres, simply call 01283 509000, email info@crescentmotoringservices.com, or pop into Crescent Motoring Services in Burton-on-Trent.
Our friendly team is always happy to help.😉
Never have Bald Tyres. Safe tyres mean safer journeys.