Tire Tread Depth: Minimum Requirements, Safe Practical Values, and Driver Measurement Routine

Tire tread depth is one of the most important safety issues for cars – yet it is often checked too late. The problem: tread determines how well water is drained and how stable your car remains in rain or snow. This article explains tire tread depth in an easy-to-understand way: what the law says, what makes sense in practice, how to measure correctly – and how to find suitable replacement tires online in good time.

What the law says

The legal minimum tread depth for car tires is 1.6 mm for the main tread. This is regulated in Section 36 of the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO): § 36 StVZO – Tread Depth.

Why "legal" is not automatically "safe"

The minimum tread depth is the lower limit. In practice, the grip of many tire models decreases significantly before this point – especially on wet and snowy roads. A clear explanation and practical values can be found here: Notes on Tread Depth and Safety.

Summer, Winter, All-Season: How to Plan Sensibly

• Summer: If you drive a lot in the rain, plan for reserves – aquaplaning and braking distance are real issues.
• Winter: For snow and slush, a tire needs more tread to be able to "work."
• All-Season: If you use all-weather tires in winter, tread is particularly important.

Measuring Tire Tread Depth: How to Do It Correctly

Option 1: Tread Depth Gauge

A small tread depth gauge is inexpensive and precise. Measure at several points across the width (inside/middle/outside) and at several positions around the circumference.

Option 2: Wear Indicators (TWI)

Many tires have wear indicators in the tread groove. A clear explanation of markings (including TWI) can be found here: Markings: DOT, TWI, Index.

Uneven Wear: A Warning Sign

If the tread depth varies significantly left/right or inside/outside, this may indicate incorrect tire pressure, loading, or alignment/geometry. In such cases, a check is worthwhile – otherwise, the new tire will quickly wear unevenly again.

When You Should Plan for Online Replacement

Don't wait until you're "at the limit." If you order early, you'll have the best selection of sizes and models. For new tires, the New Tires section is ideal. If you are budget-conscious, compare Used Tires – but pay special attention to DOT and tread.

You can specifically start for the season: Summer Tires – new or Winter Tires – new. For a general overview, use Tires.

Common Mistakes with Tire Tread Depth

• Measuring only once: Tread is not always uniform.
• Changing too late: you quickly notice the limits in the rain.
• Ignoring uneven wear: then even the new set wears out faster.

Conclusion: Regularly Check Tire Tread Depth and Order Online in Good Time

Tire tread depth is a 2-minute routine with a big impact. Check tread regularly, don't plan down to the legal minimum – and order suitable tires online in good time. Start via Tires or go directly to New Tires. If you take tire tread depth seriously, you'll drive safer and more relaxed – in the rain as well as in winter.