Fuzz Townshend, the co-presenter of the iconic vehicle restoration series Car SOS, has shared a simple 20p coin trick that every motorist must make sure they do ahead of winter
Motoring guru Fuzz Townshend has shared a straightforward 20p coin hack that every driver should use before winter arrives. The Car SOS star and brand ambassador for Landsail Tyres urged motorists to check their tyre tread using nothing more than a simple coin test ahead of the colder weather, with winter officially due to start on December 21.
According to the expert, placing a 20p piece into your tyre grooves can uncover crucial information and determine whether your tyres meet safety standards. With drivers facing substantial penalties for failing to comply with regulations, this easy 20p technique could prove invaluable.
Fuzz explained: “When it comes to tread, there is a foolproof method to check your tyre’s tread depth, and all you need is a 20p coin. Simply insert the coin into the tread grooves: if the band of the coin is hidden, your tyres are above the legal limit. If the band is visible, it’s time for some new tyres as soon as possible.
“If you are stopped by police with illegal tyres, you risk a £2,500 fine and 3 penalty points per tyre. It’s best to regularly check your tyres to ensure you remain aware of when your tread is getting low.”
The RAC recommends drivers maintain a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm for safe driving. Research suggests tyre performance begins deteriorating once tread falls below 3mm, with braking distances extending significantly, reports the Express.
Fuzz said: “Tyre pressure and tread depth should be checked regularly all year round; but winter presents challenges on the road that make proper tyre maintenance absolutely crucial.
“Maintaining proper tyre pressure is particularly important in winter as cold weather can cause pressures to drop, and underinflated tyres can lose their ability to grip the road properly, especially on icy surfaces.
“Tyres are the only element of your vehicle that connects it to the road, so when surfaces are icy or wet, you need to be able to rely on your tyres to maintain the vehicle’s stability on the road.
“To top up your tyre pressure, you can use an at-home digital tyre inflator if you have one. Alternatively, most petrol stations offer the service for a small fee. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for the correct PSI level.”