How To Check If Your Tyres Are Legal

Make sure your tyres are above the 1.6mm legal limit

The condition of your BMW’s tyres is not only important to the safety and performance of your car, but it is also a legal requirement that they are maintained to a particular standard. Therefore, it is vital to know how to check whether your vehicle’s tyres are legal and whether they need replacing. We recommend getting your tyres checked by a trained professional annually, so you can rest assured that your BMW can deliver an outstanding performance safely. Our BMW-trained technicians are available to provide advice on everything you need when it comes to your BMW. When you come to us, you can rest assured knowing that your vehicle is in safe hands.

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What is the legal tread depth on tyres?

The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across three-quarters of the tyre tread, and around its complete circumference. Tyres with any visible cuts, tears or bulges that expose the ply or cord can also make your BMW unroadworthy, so a regular check is recommended. If you are unsure as to whether your tyres meet the legal standards, you can book your BMW in for a tyre check at your local Group 1 BMW dealership.
How do you check your tyre tread depth?

Checking tyre tread depth is straightforward; all you need is a tread depth gauge which can be purchased from most automotive accessories retailers. Alternatively, you can use a 20p coin and place it in the main tread grooves of your tyre. If you are unable to see the raised edge around the coin, your tyre’s tread is likely to be greater than the 1.6mm legal standard.

However, if the outer band is visible when the 20p coin is inserted, your tyre is likely to be deemed as unsafe. If you are found to be driving on tyres that do not meet the minimum depth, you risk facing a points penalty on your licence and a significant fine for each illegal tyre.

With below-standard tyres, you are not only endangering yourself, but also other road-users. Stopping distances increase dramatically when tread becomes worn, particularly in wet or icy conditions.
How do you know when to replace your tyres?

The average tyre should last around 25,000 miles; however, this is dependant on the type of vehicle and your preferred driving style. We recommend having your tyres checked annually to ensure your vehicle’s safety on the road; and in the meantime, you should check the condition of your tyres when you check your tyre pressure every fortnight.
What happens if you have an accident on illegal tyres?

Driving with tyres that are below the legal limit, or worse - bald - is incredibly dangerous for yourself, your passengers and other road users. If you are involved in an accident and your tyres do not meet the legal standards, you must be aware of the consequences.

Your insurance claim is likely to be invalidated by your insurer, meaning that they won’t pay out any money for the repairs needed to your BMW. But that’s not all. Driving with defective tyres could get you a fine of up to £2,500 and three points on your license per tyre.

Tyre tread gauges allow you to check your tyre tread depth from the comfort of your own home, so there is no reason why you should be driving on illegal tyres.
Why choose us for BMW tyres?
When you come to Group 1 BMW, you can expect to benefit from an unrivalled service that has our customers’ best interests in mind. We strive to deliver a dedicated experience that will see you get the most from your visit to your local Group 1 BMW centre.
- BMW approved tyres to guarantee safety and performance
- Convenient locations with appointments scheduled around you
- Friendly and welcoming service from our expert BMW technicians
- Servicing, tyres and MOTs are all available in one place
Contact your local Group 1 BMW dealership to find out more information about BMW tyre checks. Alternatively, fill in the enquiry form below and a member of the team will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

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