Close-Up Tyre Inspection: Spotting the Signs Before It’s Too Late

Tyres are one of the most crucial safety elements of any vehicle. They are the only part of the car in continuous contact with the road, and their condition directly affects grip, braking, and stability. Spanish law is very clear: your vehicle must always be fitted with the correct type and size of tyre for its category and purpose. Not only is this a legal requirement, it is fundamental to safety.

The ITV and the Right Tyres

During Spain’s mandatory ITV inspection, tyres are checked carefully. If your tyres do not match those listed on your ITV card, your vehicle will automatically fail. That is why it is essential to confirm that the tyres fitted to your vehicle are the right specification and size before presenting your car for the test.

Tread Depth and Safety

The legal minimum tread depth in Spain is 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tyre, measured around the full circumference. Anything below this risks an automatic fine of up to €200 per tyre — and more importantly, a serious reduction in safety.

Inside the wide grooves of your tyres, you will see small raised sections called tread wear indicators. These provide a visual guide: if the tread surface is level with the indicator, your tyre is at or below the legal minimum and must be replaced.

Replace Before the Limit

Although 1.6 mm is the legal requirement, safety experts recommend replacing tyres earlier, typically at around 3 millimetres. The reason is simple: in wet weather, a tyre at 1.6 mm can take two car lengths (around 8 metres) longer to stop at just 80 km/h than one with 3 mm of tread. That extra distance can be the difference between a near miss and a collision.

What to Look For Up Close

• When you inspect your tyres, don’t just check the tread:
• Look for cracks or bulges in the sidewall.
• Search for embedded stones, nails, or sharp objects.
• Watch for uneven wear patterns, which may point to poor alignment or suspension issues.
• Confirm that valve caps are present and secure.

Regular Checks Save Lives

A close-up inspection once a month, combined with maintaining the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, dramatically reduces your risk of an incident. It also prevents costly fines, test failures, or unexpected blowouts.

Remember: tyres are not simply rubber rings — they are the foundation of your safety on the road. Inspect them closely, replace them in good time, and treat them as the life-saving equipment they are.