⚠️ Why Driving on Bald Tyres Is So Dangerous (and Illegal)

⚠️ Why Driving on Bald Tyres Is So Dangerous (and Illegal)

By Andrews Car Centre – Tyre Specialists in Lincoln

Your tyres are the only part of your car that actually touches the road — so when they’re worn down, your safety (and everyone else’s) is at risk.

At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we regularly see cars come in with tyres that are well past their legal limit. Many drivers don’t realise just how dangerous (and costly) bald tyres can be.

Here’s why you should never ignore tyre wear, and how to stay safe and legal on Lincoln’s roads.

🚨 What Does “Bald Tyres” Mean?

A tyre is considered bald when the tread depth falls below the UK legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central ¾ of the tyre.

Once below this limit, tyres lose their ability to:

• Grip effectively in wet weather

• Disperse water to prevent aquaplaning

• Provide stable braking distances

⚠️ The Dangers of Driving on Bald Tyres

1. Longer Braking Distances

   • Worn tyres can add metres to your stopping distance, especially on wet roads.

2. Increased Risk of Aquaplaning

   • With little tread left, tyres can’t clear water effectively, causing you to skid.

3. Poor Handling

   • Steering feels less responsive, particularly in corners.

4. Higher Risk of Blowouts

   • Tyres worn to the canvas are far more likely to fail at speed.

💷 The Legal Consequences

Driving with bald tyres isn’t just unsafe — it’s expensive.

• Fine of up to £2,500 per tyre

• 3 penalty points per tyre

• Possible MOT failure

That means four bald tyres could cost you £10,000 in fines and 12 points on your licence.

🔍 How to Check Your Tyres

✅ Use a 20p coin – slot it into the tread. If the outer rim is visible, your tyres are below the legal limit.
✅ Look for wear bars – small rubber indicators in the grooves.
✅ Inspect for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.

If in doubt — let us check them for you.

🛠️ Tyre Services at Andrews Car Centre

We offer:

• Free tyre checks while you wait

• Same-day tyre fitting in Lincoln

• Budget, mid-range and premium tyre options

• Wheel alignment to help tyres last longer

• Van tyres and all-season/winter tyre fitting

📍 Book a Tyre Check or Replacement in Lincoln

Don’t wait until you’re caught out on the road (or at the MOT). Keep your tyres safe, legal and roadworthy.

👉 Call Andrews Car Centre today, book online, or visit our Dixon Street garage in Lincoln.

✅ Trusted local garage
✅ Honest advice
✅ Competitive prices

🔍 Related Searches We Help With:

• Bald tyre penalty UK

• Car failed MOT on tyres Lincoln

• Tyre replacement near me

• Tyre checks Lincoln garage

• Same day tyre fitting Lincoln

Latest News