With this years snow already grinding the nation to a standstill, forecasters are predicting further disruption and a repeat of scenes from last year. With changeable conditions like this it is paramount that our cars have enough tyre tread depth to be able to deal with it.
Legally a road car tyre should have a minimum of 1.6mm depth across the central three quarters of the tyre. Police have the power to fine drivers up to 2,500 and give 3 penalty points if they are found to have tyres below the legal limit.
Although 1.6mm is the legal limit, many experts including those from Skoda recommend a minimum tyre depth of 3mm. The chairman of TyreSafe, Stuart Jackson advised, "You should check your tyres at least once a month for tread depth, as well as correct pressure and any cracks, bulges or uneven wear. At this time of year and as we move into winter, the weather can cause roads to become wet, icy and snowy and these conditions mean that your stopping distances will be increased. Having more tread on your tyres reduces this stopping distance dramatically so we urge everyone to carry out regular checks as the bad weather continues."
Skoda owners can take their
Skoda Fabia estate in Dorset for a free tyre check, Skoda have also supplied a how to list for drivers to check their own tyres.
1. Tyre tread depth should be checked at least once a month at the same time that you check your tyre pressures.
2. A 20p coin provides a useful alternative to a calibrated tread depth gauge.
3. Insert the 20p coin into the main tyre grooves at several places around the circumference of the tyre and across its width.
4. If the outer band of the 20p coin is visible whenever you insert it into the grooves, your tread depth may be illegal and you should have them checked by a qualified tyre specialist.
5. When checking your tread depth, give the rest of the tyres a visual inspection for any cuts or bulges and remove any stones or objects embedded in the tread.
Dont take the risk this winter, give all your tyres including the spare a good visual inspection, if in doubt check in at your local tyre shop who will be happy check all the tyres for you and give further advice.
