🛞 What Does a Bald Tyre Look Like? (And Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Replace It)
🛞 What Does a Bald Tyre Look Like? (And Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Replace It)
By Andrews Car Centre – Tyre Safety Experts in Lincoln
Not sure if your tyres are past their best? If you're asking yourself whether they’re “bald,” the answer might already be yes.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we regularly replace tyres that are well beyond legal limits — often without the driver even realising. Here’s how to spot a bald tyre, why it’s dangerous, and when to get it checked or replaced.
👀 What Does a Bald Tyre Actually Look Like?
A bald tyre is a tyre that has very little or no tread left, especially across the centre of the tyre.
Key visual signs include:
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Smooth rubber surface – no visible grooves or tread pattern
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Tread depth below 1.6mm (legal minimum in the UK)
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Tread wear indicators flush with the surface
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Shiny, slick appearance – especially in the centre
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Exposed cords or fabric (very dangerous)
If your tyre looks more like a racing slick than a road tyre — it’s bald and unsafe.
⚠️ Why Bald Tyres Are Dangerous
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Longer stopping distances, especially in wet conditions
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Higher risk of aquaplaning
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Increased chance of a blowout at speed
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Reduced grip and stability when cornering
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Poorer braking and acceleration response
Bald tyres are not just a performance issue — they’re a serious safety hazard for you and others on the road.
🚔 Legal Risks of Driving on Bald Tyres
In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central ¾ of the tyre and around the full circumference.
If you're caught driving on a bald tyre, you could face:
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£2,500 fine per tyre
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3 penalty points per tyre
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MOT failure if picked up during a test
🧰 How to Check Your Tyre Tread
Try the 20p test:
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Insert a 20p coin into the tyre’s tread groove.
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If you can see the outer band of the coin, your tread is likely below the legal limit.
Or… visit us for a free tyre check. We'll measure tread depth and inspect for damage while you wait.
📍 Book a Tyre Check or Replacement in Lincoln
If your tyres look worn or feel unsafe, don’t leave it to chance.
👉 Call now, book online, or visit Andrews Car Centre on Dixon Street, Lincoln for trusted tyre checks and replacements.
✅ We stock budget, mid-range & premium brands
✅ Same-day fitting available
✅ Free pressure and tread checks
✅ Tyres fitted while you wait