Tyre worn close to the legal limit
How it can appear on an MOT certificate
- “Tyre worn close to legal limit”
- “Tyre tread depth below requirements of 1.6mm”
What it is
The legal minimum tread depth for a car tyre is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, all the way around. "Close to the legal limit" is an advisory; below 1.6mm is a fail.
Why it matters
Less tread means less grip, particularly in the wet, and longer stopping distances. Driving on tyres below the legal limit can also bring a fine and penalty points.
What to check when viewing a car
Check the tread on every tyre, including the inner edge. A 20p coin is a rough guide: if you can see the coin's outer band when it's inserted into the main grooves, the tread may be getting low. Budget for tyres if this was advised.
Has the car you're looking at had this before?
Free: every MOT, every defect explained in plain English, mileage, tax and ULEZ.
What the MOT categories mean
- Dangerous
- A direct and immediate risk to road safety, or a serious impact on the environment. The car fails and shouldn't be driven until it's repaired.
- Major
- It may affect the car's safety, put other road users at risk or harm the environment. The car fails and should be repaired straight away.
- Minor
- No significant effect on safety or the environment. The car passes, but it should be repaired as soon as possible.
- Advisory
- Something to keep an eye on that could need repairing in future. The car passes.
Related: tyres and wheels
- Tyre worn on the inner or outer edge
- Tyre cracking or perishing
- Tyre damaged: bulge, cut or lump
- Wheel bearing has play or is rough
- Tyre pressure monitoring (TPMS) warning light
Buying a used car?
General information about this type of MOT defect, not advice about a particular car. How serious it is depends on the car; have any car you're buying inspected by a qualified mechanic.