Overview
- National outlets on Friday urged motorists to run a one‑minute tyre‑tread check this weekend, citing wet April conditions and expert advice from Ollie Green of Collect Service Go.
- The simple 20p test asks drivers to place a 20p coin in the tyre grooves and check for the coin’s outer band, which signals tread that may be below the legal limit.
- UK law sets a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, with penalties up to £2,500 and three points per illegal tyre, which can add up to £10,000 and 12 points across four tyres.
- After dry spells, rain mixes with oil and dust to form a slick film on the road, and worn tyres lose grip more easily, raising the risk of skids and loss of control.
- Experts also warn that wear can be uneven across a tyre, insurance claims may be at risk if a car is judged unroadworthy, and a quick check can cost less than fines or a crash.