Overview
- An AA winter message and guidance from car expert Fuzz Townshend encourage drivers to use a 20p coin to gauge tread depth before travelling.
- UK law requires at least 1.6mm of tread across the central three-quarters of each tyre, with penalties of up to £2,500 and three points per illegal tyre.
- RAC-cited MIRA testing shows stopping distances increase sharply below about 3mm, with wet braking differences of up to 44% between 3mm and 1.6mm.
- Reduced tread hampers water dispersion and raises aquaplaning risk in heavy rain, making timely checks especially important in colder, wetter conditions.
- The AA advises checking multiple spots on every tyre, monitoring pressure as temperatures drop, testing the battery, using winter-grade screen wash, and carrying a basic emergency kit.