Traction, Tyres and Brakes
What is the legal minimum tread depth of the contact band on a passenger car?
Reviewed on 9 Aug 2026
- A 0.8 mm
- ✓ 1.6 mm
- C 3 mm
- D 5 mm
Why this is the correct answer
The tread of a passenger car must have grooves at least 1.6 mm deep. Below that limit the tyre is illegal and loses grip, especially in the wet.
More questions on Traction, Tyres and Brakes
- For safety, at what tread depth is it recommended to replace tyres, especially in wet conditions?
- What is the purpose of the grooves in the tread pattern?
- How often and in what state should tyre pressure be checked?
- What is a consequence of driving with pressure lower than recommended?
- What effect does pressure higher than recommended have on tyres?
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