Summer tires are essential for your safety on the road, especially in the warmer months. But how much tread depth must a summer tire have to ensure optimal performance and safety? This article provides comprehensive information about the legally required minimum tread depth, recommended values, and the consequences of worn tires. We also give you tips on how to check the tread depth of your summer tires and when it’s time for a tire change.
The legally required minimum tread depth for summer tires in Germany is 1.6 mm. 
Legal minimum summer tire tread depth: A tire showing 1.6 mm tread depth, the legal minimum. Driving with less tread is not only dangerous but can also result in a fine. However, even if your tires still meet the legal minimum tread depth, this does not necessarily mean that they still offer sufficient grip.
Legal Minimum vs. Recommended Tread Depth
While 1.6 mm is the legal minimum tread depth, experts recommend changing summer tires at the latest when they reach 3 mm tread depth. The reason for this is the significantly reduced performance in wet conditions, especially the risk of aquaplaning. 
Aquaplaning risk with worn summer tires: Illustration of a car aquaplaning on a wet road, emphasizing the importance of sufficient tread depth. “Sufficiently deep tread is crucial for water displacement and thus for avoiding aquaplaning,” explains tire expert Dr. Hans Müller in his book “The Physics of Tires”. With worn tires, water can no longer be effectively channeled away, leading to a loss of grip.
How to Measure Tread Depth?
Tread depth can be easily checked with a tread depth gauge or a 1-Euro coin. Insert the gauge or the rim of the coin into the main tread grooves. If the gold rim of the coin is no longer visible, the tread depth is at least 3 mm. If the rim is visible, you should measure the tread depth more accurately.
When Should You Change Summer Tires?
In addition to tread depth, there are other indicators for a tire change. These include damage such as cracks or bulges, as well as the age of the tires. Experts recommend changing summer tires after six to eight years at the latest, regardless of tread depth.
The Importance of Correct Tread Depth for Driving Safety
The correct tread depth is crucial for your safety on the road. It affects braking distance, steering behavior, and grip, especially in wet conditions. A worn tire can significantly extend the braking distance and increase the risk of accidents.
Other Factors Affecting Tire Performance
In addition to tread depth, tire pressure and tire quality also play an important role in driving safety. wieviel profil muss ein reifen haben Check the tire pressure regularly and pay attention to quality and test seals when buying new tires.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Tire Tread Depth
- What is the minimum tread depth for summer tires?
- How can I measure the tread depth?
- When should I change my summer tires?
- What are the consequences of worn tires?
Related Topics About Car Tires
- Tire pressure monitoring
- Tire change
- Winter tires
- All-season tires
Do you need support with tire selection or other questions about your vehicle? Contact us via our website! We have car repair experts available 24/7 to assist you.
Measuring tire tread depth with a 1-Euro coin: Demonstration of how to measure tire tread depth using a 1-Euro coin. wieviel profil muss ein reifen haben
In summary, the correct tread depth of your summer tires is crucial for your safety. Check the tread depth regularly and change your tires in good time to ensure optimal performance and safety on the road. Feel free to share this article with your friends and acquaintances and leave us a comment if you have any further questions! Also visit our other helpful articles on autorepairaid.com.
