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Maintaining your tyres on the long run is crucial as if the damage goes unnoticed for a very long period, your tyres might come under an illegal state. In The United Kingdom, there are certain conditions to be met for the tyres to be classified as legal. The first and foremost thing is, what is the legal limit for tyres in The U.K? The minimum limit for your tyre to be considered legal is 1.6mm of depth across 75% of the tyre all around.
It is recommended that you get your tyres checked every month and if you notice any damage to the tyres, immediately seek professional help. The legal limit for tyres in The United Kingdom is 1.6mm across 75% of the tyre. But it is recommended to change the tyre when it reaches about 3mm deep. Now that you know the legal limit for tyres in The United Kingdom let us look at some ways that can classify your tyres as illegal.
The Legal Limit for Tyres in the UK
Legal Limit
Yes, as said in the beginning, the legal limit is 1.6mm, and it’s better to change by the time it is 3mm. Now, why is this recommended? Why is a specific mm of depth necessary? This is because your tyres are designed so that when running on wet roads, they need to channel the water away and maintain a grip on the road to avoid accidents and save fuel.
Damage
Always check for bumps or cuts on the tyre and get it repaired as soon as possible. It is undoubtedly dangerous to drive a vehicle with damaged tyres and also cost you money. If caught by the police, you will be charged a fine for having a damaged tyre. For every tyre, the driver can be endorsed three points on their licence.
Under or over-inflated tyres
Under or over-inflation of tyres is the most common thing to happen to the tyres. Both underinflation and overinflation give birth to problems while driving, and both are equally dangerous. If you have an underinflated tyre then it is likely that your tyre will have a firmer grip on the road, which is also not good. This might cause problems when trying to turn your vehicle on the corners. On the other hand, overinflated tires also cause problems by not having enough grip on the road. In this scenario, your car is more likely to skid, which can be seriously damaged if you drive fast. Bothe situations of tyres do cost you money as fine, and you may also receive points on your licence.
Tyres that do not match your vehicle
The best tyres for your cars are the ones mentioned in the booklet that came with your vehicle. A different tyre that was not built for your type of vehicle would be tough to be installed until significant changes are made in the vehicle. The type of tyres you use for your vehicle can have a substantial impact on your vehicle’s overall performance.
Mixing of Tyre ply
Different plies have different performances. Mixing plys on your vehicle, that is, using other tyres with different plys will make your vehicle take load differently. And so mixing plys is illegal in The U.K.
Studded tyres
These tyres have metal studs on them which help significantly in snowy weather. Although, The United Kingdom does not experience such extreme weather conditions, which makes studded tyres unnecessary. As there is no snow, the studs will form a grip on the road and deteriorate the tarmac on the streets. Therefore, studded tyres are not legal in The United Kingdom.
Worn off tyres
After a long period of regular or rough use, it is natural for the tyres to wear off. At first, when the tyres are brand new, the tread depth is about 8 and 9mm. But over type, the depth can reduce due to long periods of contact with roads. And as the depth decreases, so does the grip on the road. As we all know, if the grip reduces, there are more chances of you meeting an accident. So to avoid any damage to you or the road, worn-off tyres are illegal as well.
How do I check the tyre tread depth?
There are devices built just to check the depth of the tyre pattern and ensure your tyres are under the legal limit. The tyre pressure gauge is one of them. This device has a variety of versions from digital to laminated cards. This device, the tyre gauge, will give you a precise measure of the tyre tread depth.
If you want to check it at home before you go for professional help, you may insert a 20p coin inside the tyre depth cavity and look at the coin at eye level. If you can see the coin’s rim, you might need to change your tyre. If not, you are ready to go on your next ride. But do try to get a proper measurement done to avoid any legal charges. It is better to be safe than sorry. Isn’t it?
Conclusion
As we now know, the legal limit for tyres in The United Kingdom is 1.6mm and to be changed when the tyre tread depth approaches 3mm. Generally, it takes up to 3 to 5 years for the tyres to wear off. But the replacement of tyres must depend on the condition of the tyres and not the duration. Following the laws are crucial as not doing so can get you in trouble, and not following the tyre limits can also cost you to receive points on your licence. We have also looked at how you can classify your tyres as illegal. Always use tyres that suit your vehicle and those in good condition. So from now on, remember to get your tyres checked every month, follow the rules and regulations to save yourself, others, fuel and also the roads. Have a beautiful journey, there is always someone waiting for you, who truly cares for you. So drive safe!
