What should be the tire tread depth (pattern height) for their operation to be permitted by the “Road Rules”? This question is increasingly being asked by car owners, especially in light of recent changes in traffic rules that determine punishment for those drivers whose car ends up with “bald tires.”
We will consider below what the average motorist needs about tread depth.
From this article you will learn:
Types of tires
Tires come in three types: , and , and, accordingly, they have different tread depths. This is due to the fact that tires are designed to solve specific problems.
For example, winter wheels have a deep tread due to more efficient self-removal of snow and liquid, as well as better cross-country ability, while summer tires are focused primarily on driving on asphalt and therefore the tread is not pronounced.
There are intermediate tire options like all-season or, but their rules are still equated to a specific season (universal increasingly refers to summer tires, and friction tires to winter tires).
Tread height
According to changes in the Road Traffic Rules dated January 1, 2015, vehicles (passenger cars) with a tread height of at least:
- 1.6 millimeters - on summer tires;
- 4 millimeters - on winter tires.
Otherwise, if a traffic police officer detects a smaller residual tread height of the tire in use, a fine of 500 rubles may be imposed on the vehicle owner. Therefore, it is necessary to change tires in advance to those allowed by regulations.
How to determine the remaining tread height?
The tread height of the tire is determined by the corresponding indicators, which are located transversely in each groove of the tire. If the tread is compared with the indicator to the same height, it means that it is time to replace this tire with a new one, because further operation is prohibited by law. If there is no wear indicator on the tires (very rare at the moment), then you can use a ruler or caliper, as well as a coin and other available materials.
A few words about the cut tread...
Some car repair shops offer a very interesting service that promises to temporarily extend the life of tires with worn treads - using a special machine to deepen the worn tread by cutting off the top layer of rubber. The machine-machine is called a regroover.
After this procedure, tires actually last for a certain period and even retain their grip. However, some unscrupulous sellers make a business out of this and sell worn tires with chopped tread at the price of used tires with moderate wear.
Visually identifying a cut tread is extremely difficult and the main problems can only appear during operation. Below are some signs of cut tires:
- Peeling of rubber.
- Imbalance in movement and difficult wheel balancing.
- Susceptibility to frequent punctures.
- Unnaturally smooth and even tire tread, which has a glossy surface tint.
A car owner planning to buy used tires should beware of such offers, as such “cut tires” can cause a serious accident.
5.1. The remaining tire tread depth (in the absence of wear indicators) is less than:
- For vehicles of category L (motorcycles and mopeds) - 0.8 mm;
- For vehicles of categories N2, N3, O3, O4 (trucks) - 1 mm;
- For vehicles of categories M1, N1, O1, O2 (passenger cars) - 1.6 mm;
- For vehicles of categories M2, M3 (buses) - 2 mm.
The remaining tread depth of winter tires intended for use on icy or snowy road surfaces, marked with a sign in the form of a mountain peak with three peaks and a snowflake inside it, as well as marked with the signs “M+S”, “M&S”, “M S” (if absence of wear indicators), during operation on the specified coating is less than 4 mm.
Note. The designation of the vehicle category in this paragraph is established in accordance with Appendix No. 1 (Road Signs) to the technical regulations of the Customs Union “On the safety of wheeled vehicles”, adopted by decision of the Customs Union Commission dated December 9, 2011 No. 877.
5.2. Tires have external damage (punctures, cuts, breaks), exposing the cord, as well as delamination of the carcass, peeling of the tread and sidewall.
5.3. The fastening bolt (nut) is missing or there are cracks in the disk and wheel rims, there are visible irregularities in the shape and size of the mounting holes.
5.4. The tires are not the correct size or load capacity for the vehicle model.
5.5. One axle of the vehicle is equipped with tires of various sizes, designs (radial, diagonal, tubed, tubeless), models, with different tread patterns, frost-resistant and non-frost-resistant, new and reconditioned, new and with an in-depth tread pattern.
The vehicle is equipped with studded and non-studded tires.
At what minimum residual tire tread depth (in the absence of wear indicators) is the operation of motor vehicles (category L) prohibited?
| 1. | 0.8 mm. | |
| 2. | 1.0 mm. | |
| 3. | 1.6 mm. | |
| 4. | 2.0 mm. |
For motor vehicles belonging to vehicles of category L (in accordance with Appendix No. 1 to the Technical Regulations on the Safety of Wheeled Vehicles, approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of September 10, 2009 No. 720), the residual depth of the tire tread pattern (in the absence of wear indicators), at which the operation of the vehicle is prohibited is at least 0.8 mm.
At what minimum residual tire tread depth (in the absence of wear indicators) is it prohibited to operate a passenger car (category M1)?
| 1. | 0.8 mm. | |
| 2. | 1.0 mm. | |
| 3. | 1.6 mm. | |
| 4. | 2.0 mm. |
For a passenger car belonging to vehicle category M1 (in accordance with Appendix No. 1 to the Technical Regulations on the Safety of Wheeled Vehicles, approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of September 10, 2009 No. 720), the residual depth of the tire tread pattern (in the absence of wear indicators), at which the operation of the vehicle is prohibited is at least 1.6 mm.
It is prohibited to operate trucks of categories N2 and N3 if the remaining tire tread depth (in the absence of wear indicators) is no more than:
The remaining tread height of a bus tire must not be less than 2 mm.
In what cases are you allowed to operate a car?
Of all the listed cases, only installing retreaded tires on the rear axle of a car is not a reason to prohibit the operation of your car.
Are you allowed to install tires with different tread patterns on the same axle of a passenger car?
The tread pattern significantly affects the grip of the tires on the road, so it is not allowed to install tires with different tread patterns on the same axle.
Many car owners have at least once had the idea of saving money and “re-fitting” their car not with new tires, but with used ones. In addition, sellers assure that tire wear is minimal. In practice, it turns out that used tires are almost always in poor condition. However, new tires are often not ideal. From the article you will learn what the tread depth and height of a new winter tire should be.
The tread is the outer layer of a car tire that is in direct contact with the road surface. It is on this part that a special pattern is applied, consisting of volumetric elements and grooves of a certain depth and direction. Its purpose is to provide maximum grip on the road surface, effectively remove snow and moisture from the contact point between the wheels and the road surface.
It is obvious that the percentage of wear of the outer layer has a direct impact on the stability of the machine, its maneuverability and controllability. In addition, proper operation of the braking system is also impossible if the wheels are heavily worn.
Video “How to independently determine the tire tread height”
In this video you will learn how to determine the tread height of your tires without measuring tools.
How to Measure Tread Depth
Regular monitoring of the height of the residual winter tread pattern, as well as timely replacement of tires before the percentage of wear reaches a critical value, allows you to minimize the risk of accidents.
There are several ways to measure the thickness of the outer layer of rubber. Thus, modern copies are equipped with built-in indicators that monitor wear: as soon as the thickness of the ornament reaches the minimum permissible value, their presence will affect the quality of car control, and the driver will understand that he must change the tires. Sometimes colored layers of rubber are used as a kind of indicator of the urgent need to replace tires - as soon as they appear on the surface of the tire, it’s time to visit a tire shop.
To more accurately measure depth, professionals use a special device - a depth gauge. But experienced drivers know that it is quite possible to do without it, having an ordinary 10-kopeck coin on hand. We insert it edgewise into the groove of the ornament and evaluate the result: if the inscription “kopecks” is completely hidden, your tire is in excellent condition; if the rubber covers only the floral pattern, you can ride on wheels, but you should prepare for an early tire change; If only the rim is hidden in the groove, change the wheels immediately.
For a more accurate picture, measurements are taken along the entire circumference of the wheel. If it turns out that the degree of tire wear is different in different places, you need to go to a service station and adjust the wheel alignment angles.
Required tread height for new tires
The required height of the pattern of the outer layer of winter tires differs depending on several factors: the type of car (passenger car, truck, passenger), its category, climatic conditions of the region, etc. Traffic rules (TRAF) clearly regulate this parameter:
"2.3.2. The height of the tire pattern must be at least:
2.3.2.1. For vehicles of category L - 0.8 mm;
2.3.2.2. For vehicles of category M1 - 1.6 mm;
2.3.2.3. For vehicles of categories N and O - 1.0 mm;
2.3.2.4. For vehicles of categories M2 and M3 - 2.0 mm;
2.3.2.5. For trailers (semi-trailers) - the same as for the tractors with which they work.
2.3.2.6. For winter tires, as well as those marked with the “M+S” sign - 4.0 mm.”
Allowable wear
Unlike summer tires, winter tires are suitable for use only for 2-3 seasons. Further, the tread pattern wears off to such an extent that the operation of the vehicle becomes dangerous. Traffic regulations put forward specific requirements for the residual depth of the pattern, depending on the type of vehicle (2018 edition of traffic regulations):
"5.1. The remaining tire tread depth (in the absence of wear indicators) is no more than:
for vehicles of categories L - 0.8 mm;
for vehicles of categories N2, N3, O3, O4 - 1 mm;
for vehicles of categories M1, N1, O1, O2 - 1.6 mm;
for vehicles of categories M2, M3 - 2 mm.”
You should not skimp on your own safety and take winter tires lightly. The life and health of passengers often depends on their condition.
Be careful, no rod, no nail!
Why is the tread height of a new winter tire important? Manufacturers recommend wearing it not to the minimum permissible value, expressed in exact figures, but by 50%. When purchasing a used tire, knowledge of the initial metric characteristics will help to assess the reliability of its mileage based on the residual depth of the pattern.
Car tires are assembled from several layers of textile cord and a metal cord breaker - a cord made of metal wire. The sides of the product are covered with a thin layer of rubber, and the running part is covered with a thick one. This massive rubber layer, essentially the sole of the tire, is the tread.
With the convex elements of the pattern, the tread “clings” to the road, moving the car forward, braking, and turning. The grooves into which the recesses between the protrusions “merge” drain water and slush from the contact patch.
Studs and lamellas contribute to adhesion to a slippery supporting surface. The first ones crash into compacted snow and ice. Many narrow parallel cuts - lamellas - on the tread protrusions play the role of a “suction cup”.
On a note. A tire is a tire that works in tandem with a tube - “covering” it.
The winter tread is characterized by special patterns (with a more contrasting relief, wide grooves) and special rubber that retains maximum elasticity in the cold.
Tread pattern of a winter car tire
Groups into which car tires are divided depending on the type of tread pattern:
- summer, or road, incompatible with slippery surfaces and deep snow (the pattern is longitudinally directed, with narrow grooves);
- all-season (they are also universal), but in fact - inter-season (the pattern is formed by equal-sized checkers of the same shape);
- winter (complex patterns, from more sparse elements) - on a dry, flat road they quickly wear out, make noise, and waste excess fuel;
- all-terrain, or all-terrain (an intricate pattern of isolated elements of complex shape - lugs - and wide cross grooves).
The pattern of a winter tire can be directional. As a rule, its central zone resembles a Christmas tree. Such a tire does not care which way it rotates. It can be installed only on one side of the car: right or left. A hint is the arrow on the side of the product.
This pattern - arrows (or ticks), diverging at the ends from the central axis to the periphery, quickly removes liquid from the area of contact of the tire with the road (forward and to the sides), and “pulls” the car well on a slippery surface, in the snow.
Asymmetrical winter tread pattern“assembled” from several longitudinal patterns of different types. (For example, a path made of elements resembling arrows - for stability during acceleration and braking on ice).
The tire tread pattern should not differ between wheels of the same axle. Otherwise, the vehicle’s movement along a given trajectory is impossible, and its operation is prohibited by law. (The pattern on a pair of front wheels may differ from the pattern on a pair of rear wheels, but you will have to carry two spare tires with you - one for each pair).
The pattern of each stripe is designed taking into account its place on the tread. Therefore, a tire with an asymmetric tread has an “outside” side and an “inside” side. And since such a “composite” pattern usually has at least one track with a directional pattern, such tires are divided into left and right, and are placed only on one of the two sides of the car.
The nature of the pattern divides the tread patterns into “European” and “Scandinavian”
A diagonally directed network of grooves, sipes and lugs along the tread contour (shoulders) are the distinctive features of a pattern that is beneficial when driving in mild winter conditions, on roads cleared of snow, heated by heavy traffic.
The mixture of water, snow, and sand covering the asphalt is quickly removed from the contact patch of the “European” tread, and the shoulder elements come into play when deep snow passes.
The complex pattern of diamonds and trapezoids is responsible for the good grip of tires for snowy roads. Even in deep snow, a tire with a “Scandinavian” pattern is capable of providing traction with the supporting surface sufficient for the vehicle to move forward without slipping.
On a note. Large elements in the transversely dissected tread pattern increase the external noise of the vehicle at low speeds: 30 km/h for cars, 60 for trucks.
Allowable degree of tread wear
If there is no pattern on the tread, its height is zero. However, the car receives the “faulty” status much earlier.
What tread depth indicates that the tire is worn out and requires replacement:
- 4 mm - on tires for snowy and icy roads, with markings M+S, M&S, M S, an image of three mountain peaks with a snowflake inside, regardless of the type of vehicle “shod” in it;
- 2 mm - on a bus tire (M2, M3);
- 1.6 mm - for passenger car and truck tires with a permissible maximum weight of up to 3.5 tons (M1, N1, O1, O2);
- 1 mm - for a truck tire with a GMM of more than 3.5 tons (N2, N3, O3, O4);
- 0.8 mm - on the tire of an ATV, moped, motorcycle (L).
These are the requirements of the Basic Regulations for the admission of vehicles to operation (Resolution “On the Rules of the Road” No. 1090). The standards for trailer tires are the same as for tractor-trailers.
You can reduce tread wear by swapping rear and front tires, and the “spare tire” (if it is not “compact”) from time to time - according to the scheme suggested in the car’s operating instructions.
Wear indicators
High abrasion rates on the tread of a pneumatic tire may indicate a deterioration in the technical condition of the vehicle. Tire runout is caused by wheel imbalance, wear of the suspension ball joints, as well as a rough, careless driving style. (Turning with squealing tires, beating curbs, holes, and rails shortens the life of the tires).
Is one side of the tread more worn? The wheels are probably not balanced. Are the dual tires worn differently, do their outer diameters differ by 5mm? The car is considered faulty.
Regular wheel balancing allows you to avoid active tire wear. The driven wheels of most cars are installed perpendicular to the plane of the road, while the drive wheels are installed at an angle. If the angle is incorrect, the tire will wear prematurely and unevenly.
To help drivers and inspectors - wear indicators:
- protrusions at the bottom of the grooves (in the central zone of the treadmill), the height of each of which is equal to the minimum permitted tread depth;
- a protruding element, the fate of which is to wear out as it wears out and eventually disappear, located at the level to which the rubber can be worn;
- numbers cut out in different layers of the tread, corresponding to its current depth (one number is erased - the next one appears).
Pattern height of new winter tires
Manufacturers do not indicate the tread depth of zero mileage tires. Perhaps the reason is the difference in this value for different standard sizes of products. Tread depth (mm) of new winter tires from some well-known brands, measured and published by customers:
| Name | Model | Tread height |
|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone, Blizzak range | VRX | 8,1 - 9,2 |
| Revo GZ | 9 | |
| Spike-01 | 10 | |
| DM-V2 | 10 | |
| DM-Z3 | 15 | |
| Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 5000 | Ice Cruiser 5000 | 10,1 |
| Nokian, Hakkapeliitta range | 8 SUV | 9,5 |
| K 2 SUV | 8,5 | |
| R2 | 8,4 - 8,5 | |
| 8 | 8,9 | |
| 5 | 9,3 | |
| R | 9 | |
| Michelin Latitude X-ice 2 | 8 | |
| Michelin X Ice range | 2Xi2 | 8,2 |
| 3 | 8,6 | |
| North 3, North | 9,4 | |
| Dunlop | Grandtrek At3 | 9 or more |
| Sp Winter Ice02 | 9,7 | |
| Sp Winter Ice02 | 8,8 - 9 | |
| Winter Maxx WM01 | 8,8 - 9 | |
| Yokohama | ice Guard IG30 | 8,4 |
| ice Guard Stud F700Z | 8,9 |
You can approximately determine the depth of the pattern with a coin. But it’s better if the driver always has his own meters at hand:
- tread depth (narrow ruler with movable stop);
- tire pressure - pressure gauge.
Tire pressure and tread wear
If the tire pressure is not correct, the car is not working properly. The standard is set by the manufacturers: of the car (in this case, the rear and front wheels may have different pressure standards) or tires. (Often this is 1.8–2.2 kg/cm).
Every new trip should begin with an inspection of the wheels. Are they themselves and all their fastening bolts in place? Are your tires flat? It’s better to spend a few minutes and measure the pressure: not by eye, but with a pressure gauge.
Experienced drivers recommend performing this procedure before each trip.(especially if the car moves along faulty roads, dirt, mountain, crushed stone, gravel, cobblestone surfaces, if it is used for work in the city, and, even more so, with increased maneuvering).
Important! Adjusting the air pressure in the chamber means extending the life of the tire. Underinflated tires, like overinflated ones, wear out faster.
Figures suitable for comparison with the norm will be shown by a pressure gauge measuring the pressure in a cold tire:
- before the start of the trip;
- after the end of the movement - 2–3 hours.
As a last resort, you can check the pressure once a week if the car is not working, but only takes the driver to work, to the store and back along a working concrete or asphalt road.
Procedure for measuring pressure:
- remove the cap from the nipple;
- press the rounded end of the measuring device against the valve stem;
- remove the device, take readings from the scale;
- repeat the same steps with the remaining wheels, including the spare.
If the pressure is too high, air is released from the cold tire in small portions by pressing the pin in the center of the valve. A chamber with insufficient pressure is inflated using a compressor at a service station or with its own pump.
A lowered wheel rolls poorly (touch spot, higher rolling resistance), forces the driver to turn the steering wheel with great effort, and can pull the car to the side. At the same time, the length of the braking distance and turning radius directly depend on the adhesion of the wheel to the road. (Minimum coefficient of adhesion - 0.12).
One of the reasons for a car to deviate from a given trajectory and for uneven tire wear is uneven air pressure in the tires.
The “correct” winter tires for a car, as well as work designed to prepare the car for autumn-winter operation, are individual for each model and are given in the manufacturer’s instructions. It is better for all five wheels to have the same tires and the same internal air pressure. It is important for the driver to remember that prolonged work with increased load is fraught with premature wear of both car parts and tires.
The video talks about tire wear indicators:
Many Grodno residents have driven all summer on winter tires and are not changing their cars’ shoes this season,” Grodno tire fitting companies told a site correspondent while compiling a price review.
Note that winter tires wear out faster than summer tires due to softer rubber and a smaller area of the blocks. The Belarusian traffic regulations establish the minimum tread depth of a winter tire when operating on an icy or snowy road surface - it is 4 mm.
The Grodno traffic police asks not only to use winter tires from December 1, but also to monitor the remaining tread height. As a clear example, the traffic police cite an illustration from the magazine “Behind the Wheel”:
Traffic Regulations of the Republic of Belarus, Chapter 5, paragraph 25: “A tire is considered unsuitable for use if one wear indicator appears located at the bottom of the tread groove, with uniform wear, or two indicators in each of two sections - with uneven wear of the treadmill.”
Once again about the difference between “summer” and “winter”
One of the German concerns conducted large-scale studies of the behavior of summer and winter tires on snowy roads. Comparisons were carried out at a speed of 50 km/h. According to the measurements obtained, summer tires brake to a complete stop of the vehicle 31 meters later than their winter counterparts. At the same time, the residual speed at the moment of braking of winter tires compared to summer tires is 39 km/h, which poses a serious danger for road users.
Experience of European countries in seasonal tire replacement
Austria. From 1 November to 15 April, all vehicles in Austria must be equipped with winter tires (must have the M&S mark on the sidewalls of the tyre) with a minimum tread depth of 4 mm.
Belgium. It is not necessary to drive on winter tires in winter. Drivers can use their own discretion, however, studded tires in Belgium can only be used from 1 November to 31 March.
Czech. In the Czech Republic, the use of studded tires is prohibited, and the use of winter tires is mandatory between November 1 and March 31 if the road is covered with snow, ice or frost, or it is expected that snow, ice or frost may occur on the road while driving.
Estonia. The use of winter tires in Estonia is a legal requirement from 1 December to 29 February. These time frames may be subject to change depending on weather conditions. From October 1 to April 30, the use of winter tires is permitted. From October 15 to March 31, the use of studded tires is permitted.
Great Britain. Winter tires are not compulsory in the UK, except in areas where the local government may make it compulsory to change tires according to weather conditions. For example, in Scotland you can use winter tires during the winter season, but studded tires are prohibited in the UK.
Poland. You can only drive to Poland on winter tires without studs. The law specifically prohibits the use of tires “equipped with a permanent anti-skid system.” The use of snow chains on tires is only permitted on roads covered with snow. The use of winter tires in the cold season is recommended.
Sweden. If the car is not registered in Sweden, then winter tires are not required. But if the car is registered in Sweden, then you need to change your shoes from December 1 to March 31, but you can drive on winter tires all year round. From May 1 to September 30, it is prohibited to drive on studded tires.
Russia. On January 1, 2015, the Technical Regulations of the Customs Union “On the safety of wheeled vehicles” came into force. The regulation prohibits the operation of vehicles that are not equipped with winter tires during the winter period - December, January, February. Considering that in different regions of the country the weather conditions differ significantly - in some places winter weather actually sets in much earlier than December - by decision of the regional authorities, the timing of the ban on the operation of vehicles without winter tires can be changed, but only upward.
