Article
Tyres in Wales: 1.6 mm, MOT fail, wet roads
Source: GOV.UK — tyre tread · Checked: 2026-09-08 · Wales
Wales does not set a separate tyre law. Cars and light vans in Great Britain need 1.6 mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the breadth, around the whole circumference. Below that is illegal to use on the road and an MOT fail.
MOT
Worn or damaged tyres (cuts, bulges, exposed cords) fail the test. The Class 4 fee cap is for the inspection, not for new tyres. See what an MOT failure usually means.
Wet Welsh roads
Legal minimum is not a performance target. The grooves move water. If you are close to 1.6 mm, a wet dual carriageway is where it shows.
Fines
GOV.UK: using a tyre below the legal limit can mean a fine of up to £2,500 and 3 penalty points per tyre.
Town door: tyres in Cardiff. We do not invent a fitting price.
Common questions
- What is the legal tyre tread depth in Wales?
- The same as the rest of Great Britain: 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth, around the whole circumference, for cars and light vans.
- Will worn tyres fail an MOT?
- Yes, if they are below the legal depth or damaged (cuts, bulges, exposed cords). The MOT cap is for the test, not for new tyres.
Shortlists are editorial. How we choose · Sources · Journal