When buying a used premium car, ensuring the tyres are in good condition is essential for safety, performance, and avoiding unexpected costs. One of the most critical aspects of tyre health is tread depth. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about checking tyre depth when purchasing a high-end vehicle, helping you make an informed decision.
Why Tyre Tread Depth Matters
Tyre tread depth plays a crucial role in maintaining grip, handling, and braking performance. Insufficient tread depth can:
- Reduce traction, especially in wet conditions
- Increase braking distances
- Raise the risk of aquaplaning
- Lead to MOT failure and legal issues
The UK legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, most experts recommend replacing tyres when the tread falls below 3mm for optimal performance.
How to Check Tyre Tread Depth: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Visual Inspection
Before using any tools, start with a simple visual check:
- Look for uneven wear, bald spots, or cracks in the tread.
- Check if the wear indicators (small rubber bars inside the tread grooves) are level with the tyre surface.
- Examine the tyre for bulges or cuts that may indicate internal damage.
2. Using a 20p Coin
The 20p coin test is a quick and easy way to check tread depth:
- Insert a 20p coin into the tyre’s tread grooves.
- If the outer band of the coin is visible, the tread is likely below 1.6mm and needs replacing.
- Repeat the test at different points around the tyre to check for uneven wear.
3. Using a Tyre Depth Gauge
For a more precise measurement, use a tyre tread depth gauge:
- Insert the depth gauge into a groove and press it flat against the tyre.
- Read the measurement in millimetres.
- Check across multiple locations on each tyre to detect uneven wear.
4. Checking for Uneven Wear
Premium cars often have high-performance tyres that wear differently depending on alignment and driving style. Common wear patterns include:
- Centre wear (over-inflation)
- Edge wear (under-inflation or misalignment)
- Cupping or scalloping (suspension issues)
5. Checking the Spare Tyre
If the car comes with a spare tyre, inspect it for:
- Tread depth and condition
- Any visible damage or cracks
- Proper inflation pressure
When to Replace Tyres on a Used Premium Car
If the tyre tread is below 3mm, consider replacing the tyres soon. Other signs that tyres need replacing include:
- Visible cords or metal belts
- Cracks, bulges, or sidewall damage
- Vibrations while driving
- Poor wet-weather performance
The Cost of Tyre Replacement for Premium Cars
Luxury cars often require premium tyres, which can be expensive. Estimated replacement costs for popular brands:
- Mercedes-Benz: £150 – £300 per tyre
- BMW: £160 – £350 per tyre
- Audi: £140 – £320 per tyre
- Jaguar: £150 – £280 per tyre
- Tesla: £180 – £400 per tyre (due to electric vehicle weight and performance needs)
How to Negotiate a Better Deal Based on Tyre Condition
If the tyre tread is low, you can use it as a bargaining tool when buying a used premium car:
- Request a price reduction to cover tyre replacement costs.
- Ask the dealer to fit new tyres before finalising the sale.
- Use wear patterns to identify potential alignment or suspension issues.
Where to Buy Replacement Tyres for Premium Cars
If you need new tyres, consider reputable retailers:
- Kwik Fit (Visit Kwik Fit)
- Blackcircles (Check Blackcircles)
- Tyre Shopper (Browse Tyre Shopper)
For exclusive deals on premium used cars, check Carfundo.
Conclusion
Checking tyre tread depth when buying a used premium car is an essential step in ensuring safety and getting the best value for your investment. Using the 20p coin test or a tread depth gauge, you can easily assess whether the tyres are in good condition or need replacing. If tyre tread is low, negotiate a better price or request replacements before purchasing.
For more expert guides on buying and maintaining premium cars, visit Carfundo today!
