New collaborative research conducted by The AA and TyreSafe paints a concerning picture of tyre safety on UK roads, revealing a significant gap between drivers’ perceived knowledge of tyre maintenance and their actual understanding of legal requirements and associated penalties. The joint studies, surveying over 22,000 respondents in May and July 2025, highlight widespread ignorance of severe fines and penalty points, alongside inconsistent checking habits.
While an encouraging 98% of drivers correctly identified that worn tyres increase stopping distances in wet conditions, this understanding of basic safety does not translate into knowledge of crucial legal specifics or consistent maintenance.
Key Findings from the Joint Research
- Ignorance of Legal Penalties – A staggering 61% of drivers are unaware that the maximum fine for driving on an illegal tyre is £2,500 per tyre. Furthermore, 45% do not know that they can receive 3 penalty points for each illegal tyre, meaning two illegal tyres could lead to 6 points, and four could result in a driving ban.
- Confusion Over Responsibility – Only 65% of respondents correctly identified the car driver as legally responsible for ensuring tyres are safe and legal, with 34% incorrectly believing it was the car owner.
- Low Awareness of Tread Depth – Just 57% of drivers correctly knew the minimum legal tread depth for cars in the UK is 1.6mm. A worrying 28% cited incorrect depths, and 15% admitted they didn’t know.
- Inconsistent Checks Despite Confidence – While 96% claimed to know how to check tyre pressure, only 30% actually checked it within the last week. Similarly, only 19% checked their tyre tread depth weekly, with 15% admitting they check less than every six months or never.
- Significant Demographic Disparities – Across almost all metrics, the joint research consistently showed that men had better knowledge and more frequent checking habits than women. Likewise, older drivers (55+) displayed a much stronger understanding and better maintenance practices than younger drivers (18-24). For instance, 71% of men knew the driver was responsible, compared to 55% of women, and only 43% of 18-24 year olds knew this, versus 68% of 55-64 year olds.
“The findings from our joint research are a stark reminder that while drivers understand the dangers of worn tyres in principle, a significant proportion are completely unaware of the precise legal requirements and the severe financial and licensing consequences they face for non-compliance,” said Greg Carter, AA Technical Specialist. “It’s alarming that so many drivers are risking not just their own safety and that of others, but also potentially crippling fines and driving bans, simply due to a lack of knowledge and inconsistent maintenance.”
Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair, commented, “Our partnership with The AA on this vital research has unveiled critical knowledge gaps that we as an industry, must address. Tyres are the only contact points a vehicle has with the road, and their condition directly impacts braking, steering, and overall vehicle control. It’s concerning that fundamental aspects of their maintenance and the critical legal ramifications of neglect are so poorly understood. This collaborative insight reinforces the urgent need for greater public education to empower drivers with the knowledge and habits needed to keep their tyres, and our roads, safe.”
The AA and TyreSafe urge all drivers to prioritise regular tyre checks as a fundamental part of vehicle safety. Low tyre pressure can affect handling and fuel economy, while insufficient tread depth dramatically reduces grip, especially in wet conditions.
“We need a concerted effort to educate drivers about their responsibilities,” added Carter. “Checking your tyre pressure and tread depth should be as routine as checking your fuel gauge. The risks of not doing so both to safety and your wallet are simply too high. We particularly encourage targeted campaigns for younger drivers and women to bridge the knowledge gap highlighted in our research.”
The AA and TyreSafe jointly recommend that all drivers check their tyre pressure and tread depth at least once a month, and before any long journey. Simple checks can prevent serious incidents and significant legal penalties.
