To check if your tyre is roadworthy, you’ll want to examine several key factors. Here’s a checklist you can go through:

1. Tread Depth

• Legal minimum (UK, Australia, most EU countries): 1.6mm across the central ¾ of the tyre.

• How to check:

  • Use a tread depth gauge, or

  • Insert a 20p coin (UK) into the tread – the outer rim of the coin should be hidden if tread is adequate.

  • Look for the built-in tread wear indicators (small horizontal bars in the tread grooves).

2. Tyre Pressure

• Tyres must be inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (check the owner’s manual or sticker inside the driver’s door).

• Under or over-inflated tyres can reduce grip and increase wear.

3. Cracks, Bulges, or Cuts

• Inspect the sidewalls and tread for:

  • Cracks (signs of ageing or damage)

  • Bulges or bubbles (indicate internal damage – unsafe)

  • Cuts or embedded objects (like nails or glass)

4. Uneven Wear

• Check if the tyre is wearing more on one side, in the centre, or on the edges. This might indicate:

  • Poor wheel alignment

  • Incorrect pressure

  • Suspension problems

5. Foreign Objects

• Remove any stones, glass, nails, etc., lodged in the tread.

• If a nail or screw has punctured the tyre, have it assessed – don’t remove it yourself unless you’re repairing it immediately.

6. Age of the Tyre

• Tyres older than 6–10 years may be unsafe even if they appear OK.

• Find the DOT code on the sidewall – the last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture (e.g. “1219” = 12th week of 2019).

7. Matching Tyres

• All tyres on an axle must be the same size and type (e.g. both radial or both bias-ply).

• Mismatched tyres can affect handling and braking.