Millions of UK drivers are risking voided insurance policies and staggering fines due to a commonly overlooked vehicle detail, according to a stark warning from Money Saving Expert.
The consumer champion has alerted motorists that even if their car has a valid MOT certificate, they could still be breaking the law and invalidating their insurance coverage through one critical error.
The Hidden Danger on Britain's Roads
While most drivers know that bald tyres are illegal, many are unaware that tyres with tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm automatically invalidate insurance policies - regardless of when the MOT was completed.
"This isn't just about avoiding a fine," explains the Money Saving Expert team. "If you're involved in an accident with illegal tyres, your insurer could refuse to pay out entirely, leaving you facing astronomical costs."
The Financial Nightmare Scenario
The consequences extend far beyond standard driving penalties:
- Three penalty points on your licence for each illegal tyre
- Fines of up to £2,500 per tyre - meaning £10,000 for a full set
- Complete insurance invalidation, leaving you liable for all accident costs
- Potential criminal charges for driving without valid insurance
Shockingly, this applies even if your MOT was recent, as the legal requirement for tyre tread depth applies every day you drive, not just on test day.
How to Check Your Tyres Safely
Money Saving Expert recommends this simple verification method: use a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the tread grooves across the tyre's central three-quarters. If the outer band of the coin is visible, your tyres may be illegal and unsafe.
Drivers should perform this check regularly, especially before long journeys, and replace tyres well before they approach the legal limit for optimal safety.
With insurance premiums at record highs and cost-of-living pressures affecting vehicle maintenance, this warning serves as a crucial reminder that cutting corners on tyre safety could prove financially catastrophic.
