Consider the requirements for car tires and wheels for 2020. They are regulated by Appendix No. 1 to the SDA "List of malfunctions and conditions under which the operation of vehicles is prohibited", paragraph 5.
To begin with, let us recall the requirements for the residual tread height in accordance with the SDA for 2020:
5.1. The remaining depth of the tire tread pattern (in the absence of wear indicators) is no more than:
for vehicles of categories L - 0.8 mm;
for vehicles of categories N2, N3, O3, O4 - 1 mm;
for vehicles of categories M1, N1, O1, O2 - 1.6 mm;
for vehicles of categories M2, M3 - 2 mm.
The remaining tread depth of winter tires intended for operation on icy or snowy road surfaces, marked with a sign in the form of a mountain peak with three peaks and a snowflake inside it, as well as marked with signs "M+S", "M&S", "M S" (if absence of wear indicators), during operation on the specified coating is no more than 4 mm.
Note. The designation of the vehicle category in this paragraph is established in accordance with Appendix No. 1 to the technical regulation on the safety of wheeled vehicles, approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of September 10, 2009 No. 720.
Let's represent the above conditions in the form of a simple table.
In addition to the residual tread height, there are other restrictions on tires that can be used:
5.2. Tires have external damage (punctures, cuts, ruptures), exposing the cord, as well as delamination of the carcass, delamination of the tread and sidewall.
5.3. There is no mounting bolt (nut) or there are cracks in the disk and wheel rims, there are visible violations of the shape and size of the mounting holes.
5.4. Tires do not match the vehicle model in terms of size or load capacity.
5.5. Tires of various sizes, designs (radial, diagonal, chamber, tubeless), models, with different tread patterns, frost-resistant and non-frost-resistant, new and retreaded, new and with a deep tread pattern are installed on one axle of the vehicle. The vehicle is equipped with studded and non-studded tires.
Considering the above requirements, you can answer frequently asked questions about tires:
Can tires with repaired side cuts and bumps be used?
Yes, as long as the specified damage does not expose the cord and has not caused the tread and sidewall to peel off.
Is it possible to drive a car if there is no wheel nut or bolt?
Do not drive with missing wheel fasteners.
Is it possible to install non-standard tire sizes for this car model?
Installation of tire dimensions not provided by the manufacturer is not allowed.
Can tires with different tread or different dimensions be installed on the same axle?
It is impossible according to clause 5.5 of Appendix 1 to the traffic rules of the Russian Federation.
Can studded and non-studded tires be installed on different axles at the same time?
It is possible, clause 5.5 does not prohibit this.
Is it possible to install winter and summer tires at the same time on different axles of the car according to traffic rules?
It is impossible to use studded and non-studded tires at the same time, this contradicts clause 5.5 of the List of malfunctions in which the operation of vehicles is prohibited. It is allowed to use non-studded winter and summer tires on different axles, for example, winter Velcro tires on the front axle, summer tires on the rear axle.
Penalty for tires with a violation of the tread depth, a fine for different tires, cuts and "bumps"
A fine for violation of the above requirements for car tires is imposed under Art. 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation.
Article 12.5. Administrative Code of the Russian Federation: Driving a vehicle in the presence of malfunctions or conditions under which the operation of vehicles is prohibited, or a vehicle on which the identification mark "Disabled" is illegally installed
1. Driving a vehicle in the presence of malfunctions or conditions under which, in accordance with the Basic Provisions for the admission of vehicles to operation and the duties of officials to ensure road safety, the operation of the vehicle is prohibited, with the exception of malfunctions and conditions specified in parts 2 - 7 of this article,
shall entail a warning or the imposition of an administrative fine in the amount of five hundred roubles.
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Your safety and the safety of those around you greatly depends on the condition of the tires that are installed on your vehicle. Therefore, it is very important to look after them and keep them in good condition.
If you comply rules for the operation of car tires, then your tires will serve you for a long time and reliably.
First, let's talk about tire care:
1 Check tire pressure
This is very important for the correct operation of tires. The fact is that too low or high tire pressure leads to uneven wear and overheating of the tire itself, which, as a rule, leads to irreversible changes in the structure of the tire and, as a result, its destruction.
The control should be carried out on a “cold” tire, since as a result of heating during operation, the pressure in it rises. The inflation pressure measured in a cold tire must be the recommended inflation pressure by the vehicle or tire manufacturer.
It is indicated in the car's operating instructions, and is also often duplicated on the back of the car's gas tank flap or on the rack (usually near the lock lug) of the left (driver's) door.
Attention!
Do not adjust the pressure on a "hot" tire! Pressure adjustment should be done only on a “cold” tire, because when driving, the tire heats up and the pressure in it increases.
2 It is necessary to monitor the external condition of the tire
The valve must have a cap that protects the nipple from dirt and dust. Make sure that there are no deep cuts, cracks (indicating the age of the tire), bubbles (hernias), protruding threads and metal wire of the cord structure on the tread and on the sidewall of the tire. And you also need to ensure that there are no foreign objects on the tread surface, nails, sharp metal fragments, etc., the departure of which can lead to a sharp drop in tire pressure and, as a result, a sharp deterioration in vehicle handling.
Attention!
A tire with protruding parts of the tire structure with threads or wires, deep cuts and cracks, bubbles NOT SUITABLE for operation! The use of such tires often leads to an accident caused by the destruction of the tire on the go (sudden loss of pressure). This is especially dangerous at high speed!
3 Check tire wear
Tires with excessive wear are prone to punctures. The risk of aquaplaning (loss of control of the car, if it gets into a puddle) is greatly increased. water drainage grooves, in the process of tire wear, become less deep.
According to the traffic rules of the Russian Federation (SDA clause 5.1.)
It is prohibited to operate vehicles if:
If passenger car tires have a residual tread depth of less than 1.6 mm, trucks - 1 mm, buses - 2 mm, motorcycles and mopeds - 0.8 mm.
4 A few words about the operation of car tires
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It is worth noting that the tread depth of summer tires is less than the same indicator on winter and all-season tires. This is due to the fact that in the cold season the wheels need additional grip with the road surface, respectively, the height of the pattern is determined by the operating conditions of the products.
The task of milestones, without exception, tires is the maximum grip with the road surface. In summer, the ambient temperature is high, so wheel manufacturers use hard rubber compounds. In summer, it does not wear out so much, and in the cold season it simply loses its properties, so changing tires in the autumn-winter period becomes necessary. Such a norm is even enshrined in legislation.
The second difference between summer wheels is their pattern, which does not have to be very embossed, but at the same time it makes it possible to avoid the effect of hydroplaning on wet pavement. In most cases, this effect can be avoided by using longitudinal stripes in the pattern. Along with fairly wide treads, there are practically no sipes here. 
Along with such an indicator as the tread depth of new summer tires, it is also necessary to take into account the fact that the pattern itself can be classic symmetrical, directional and asymmetric. The first option is suitable for normal driving on almost any road surface. The second option is more suitable for driving on wet asphalt, as it helps to reduce the effect of aquaplaning. And the third option is ideal for high-speed driving.
The tread depth of new summer tires is usually around 6-8 mm, while some models may have a fairly large radius, such as SUVs. For such machines, the height sometimes reaches 17mm to ensure maximum grip even where there are absolutely no conditions for the normal movement of the vehicle.
By law, the permitted tread depth for summer tires is 1.6 mm. In general, this parameter has little effect on the adhesion of the tire to the road surface, but it is very important in order to maintain vehicle directional stability on wet pavement. That is why, in most cases, the height of the pattern below 2-3 mm no longer guarantees the safe movement of the car at high speeds in weather when there is a lot of precipitation. 
Even if the tread is worn out by 50%, it will be possible to ride on tires designed for the hot season for a long time. But again, it all depends on the driving style and operating conditions of the car. It is worth noting that drivers have problems when they bring the wheels to a critical state. The liquid is poorly removed from the contact spot, and this entails a lot of unpleasant consequences.
Residual tread depth of summer tires
But how to evaluate that the residual tread depth of summer tires is already minimal for a particular car model? First of all, it is important to feel the car during the trip. If on wet asphalt, instead of smooth movement, a hard blow is felt, and driving becomes difficult, then you should think about buying new wheels.
When buying used tires, it is quite difficult to calculate the actual wear of the pattern. Usually sellers use a universal formula, where the rest of the height is divided by its original indicators. But the actual wear differs significantly from the results that can be obtained using this formula. Therefore, it is better to use other calculations.
In them, wear is determined by several quantities at once, including the height of the design of the new product, the actual height measured on two tires mounted on the same axle, the minimum allowable height. But all these calculations are related to the fact that the buyer wants to determine the actual tire wear, and not the seller's obligation to maintain these indicators in the normal range.
And if, nevertheless, the buyer wants to choose the best used tires with a normal degree of wear, he must have an idea of \u200b\u200bhow to measure the height of the pattern. Height is measured at a minimum of 12 different points on the four sides of the wheel. Measurements are carried out with a special meter in the center of the slope and along its side parts.
You can buy tires after measurements when the tread height in the center is higher or the wear is the same across the entire width and on two wheels that will be installed on the same axle. In all other cases, when the pattern is erased unevenly around the circumference, only the upper part of the sidewall, different wear on a pair of wheels or uneven wear across the width of one wheel - in such cases, you should not buy used tires.
The tread height of a new winter tire and the remaining depth of the rubber used are important indicators that affect the safety of driving in any vehicle and must comply with established standards.
The permissible tread depth of winter tires is an important parameter that makes driving safer, thanks to the timely removal of moisture from the wheels and ensuring grip with the road surface. An indicator such as tread depth on winter tires is considered an important characteristic for cars of different brands. This indicator will provide your trip with comfort, since on the road it is important that all car systems work smoothly. For each season, certain tires should be selected that will be relevant for a particular vehicle.
To ensure a safe ride for yourself, your passengers and other road users, it is worth changing worn tires in a timely manner. New products, when the wheels come into contact with the roadway, will provide the vehicle with excellent stability. Knowing what the minimum tread residue for winter tires should be (SDA determines this indicator), you can avoid unpleasant situations on the road, including the occurrence of an accident. And the tread height of a new winter tire of a particular model can be easily determined by the marking.
Features and types of winter tires
Tires are divided into options depending on the season and can be summer, winter or all-season. Each option is designed for specific weather conditions and differs in height, as well as a tread pattern for the maximum level of grip on the road surface. The tread height of a winter tire will depend on how the tire is used. Also, products are classified based on the type of vehicle for which they are intended. Winter tires can be studded and Velcro. In order for tires to last longer, the car should be “changed shoes” with the arrival of spring heat.Winter tires are distinguished by a softer coating and a large number of slots (lamellas). These tires provide excellent contact with the road surface, even if it is covered with snow or ice. But such rubber begins to lose its properties at ambient temperatures above +5 Celsius. On dry pavement, these tires wear out quickly and “bald”. Some winter tires are suitable for regions with the most severe winters, and can also be successfully used in difficult conditions, in snowy mountainous areas and on unpaved city roads. Additionally, snow chains can be used. There are also high-speed winter tires with a sporty tread pattern.
The tread height of new winter tires that are intended for the winter period is an important indicator, as the road conditions become more dangerous during this season. All winter tires are divided into such types as:
- Studded. These tires will provide traction with the road surface, breaking ice and snow. Such rubber is also suitable for driving on asphalt, but it is quite noisy and the studs can be damaged when braking.
- Scandinavian type. This type of rubber was developed specifically for driving in conditions of frequent snowfalls and severe frosts. Thanks to the asymmetric pattern and rectangular cups, the tires have an impact on ice and snow, moving them away from the contact surface when using sipes.
- Friction. This type of rubber is suitable for off-road driving, where there is slush and mud. Tires can also be used to move on slightly snowy sections of the track. Such rubber has thin slots and special lugs that increase the grip area with asphalt wet from precipitation. The pattern of this rubber will be symmetrical.
Value of optimal tread depth control
The permissible tread depth of winter tires for a passenger car is considered one of the most important indicators to determine the possibility of using tires for a particular car and driving in certain conditions. If the minimum tread of the winter tires wears out, the tires will need to be replaced as traction may deteriorate.The Rules of the Road prescribe the residual tread depth of winter tires, at which the vehicle will be safe to drive and will not lead to an emergency. During operation, the tires go bald, which leads to skidding in corners and slippery roads. Continued use of such rubber can lead to unpleasant consequences on the road. If the tread height of winter tires according to the traffic rules is not observed, the motorist will have to pay a fine.
The minimum tread height of winter tires will also depend on the function of the wheels of a particular car, so tires can be divided into:
- Highway;
- Regional;
- off-road;
- Sports.
The main task of such tires is to provide maximum cross-country ability on mud, dirt, sand, snow-covered sections of the road, etc. These products have a powerful pattern with deep channels to provide reliable traction on loose snow and ice. Also, tires with lamellas and spikes must divert water and snow "porridge" from the contact patch with the road. Directed and deep longitudinal channels help with this.
All tires tend to wear out over time. When asked what tread height should be the minimum allowable, winter tire manufacturers call the figure 4 mm. In order for the tires to perform their functions at the proper level, and their grip qualities do not decrease, it is worth replacing worn tires in a timely manner if they become “bald”, covered with cracks or other defects. The integrity of the tires should be checked in a timely manner.
Features of the tread pattern and the main properties of winter tires
The tread pattern is an important element of the tire and performs such significant tasks as:- Pushing liquid and snow out of the contact space between the wheel and the road;
- Protection of tires from various mechanical influences;
- Lack of slip on the road covered with ice;
- Prevention of rubber puncture in contact with sharp objects;
- Preservation of stability of transport on any surface.
Winter tires have wider grooves. Wear-resistant tires must be suitable for road conditions. Such tires may have:
- Asymmetrical pattern. This option will allow the car to develop greater speed without skidding on wet or snowy roads. The product will provide an excellent level of grip even when entering tight turns.
- Directed invoice. This option will not allow the car to slide on an excessively wet roadway.
- Symmetrical drawing. This option is considered a classic and is used by many motorists. Universal products with a three-dimensional pattern are made in different types and shapes. A tire of this type will successfully remove moisture from those areas of the surface that are in contact with the road surface. These tires will give the car excellent handling and can be used as a standard tire for city streets or as a compacted version for extreme trails.
- First-class level of course stability;
- Minimum noise from contact with the surface;
- High levels of protection against moisture;
- Durability and wear resistance.
Measuring the remaining tread on winter tires
The minimum tread depth on winter tires is regulated by the Rules of the Road so that there are no accidents due to non-compliance with this requirement. If worn tires are not replaced on time, the car owner may pay a fine after the traffic police inspector checks the tread depth with a special device. Tires must not be worn more than fifty percent of their original height. Most manufacturers have provided a special label (wear indicator) so that car owners can check this indicator. Also, for such purposes, professional devices and improvised means are used (a coin placed with an edge in the groove of the tread, a ruler or a caliper with a depth gauge, etc.).It is important that the height of the tread pattern is uniform over the entire surface of the product. The fact that the tires need to be replaced can be signaled by a special indicator (color layer). The level of wear is measured across the entire width and circumference of the tire. If the product wears unevenly, you need to check the adjustment of the wheel alignment angles for camber and convergence. It is also worth conducting a visual inspection, which will determine the condition of the tires. If cuts, cracks, cord breaks, mechanical damage and other causes of tread or sidewall integrity violations appear on the tire, it is worth replacing such a part. It is especially important to change the tires on the drive wheels in time, as well as install new tires at the same time on the same axle.
Factors that lead to rapid tire wear and the possibility of restoring such products
Excessive wear of car tires in winter can occur for the following reasons:
- Natural wear of tires in the presence of loads and intensive use;
- Incorrect camber adjustment of wheels and tires, leading to uneven wear;
- Tire seasonal mismatch;
- Great mileage;
- Incorrectly selected type of tires;
- Too fast driving on ice, potholes and off-road;
- Aggressive driving style;
- Lack of proper tire pressure control.
All tires have a certain lifespan for which they are designed. However, there are cases when this period can be extended by professional methods (cold and hot welding, threaded method to increase the depth of the pattern). The depth of the groove can be increased by 3-4 mm. by cutting if the tires are marked "Regroovable". Tires can also be restored by adding an extra layer of rubber. The cold welding method involves heating the product up to 100 ° C, and the hot method - up to 120-160 ° C. Professional craftsmen with experience in such work use reliable equipment and take into account the age of the tire, its appearance, as well as the integrity of the cord and the presence of defects. The correct use of restorative methods will increase mileage by 40%.
Why is it important to control the tread depth on winter tires?
In the cold season, it is especially important to control the optimal tread height, as there are more accidents on snowy or icy roads. In order for the fluid to be diverted from the wheel, the brake system to work smoothly, the control of the car was convenient, and the grip on the road was optimal, it is important to choose the right rubber.To prevent bald tires from causing an accident, it is important to see the problem in time and entrust its elimination to qualified professionals. By following the rules for tire operation and knowing what tread depth on new winter tires is considered correct for your car, you will be able to choose reliable tires to ensure the stability of the car and excellent flotation in any difficult road conditions.
Recently, a draft law on the establishment of uniform norms in the field of the use of tires on cars was submitted to the State Duma. Experts called the permissible tread depth for absolutely all vehicles. Autoinstructors shared with us new amendments to the requirements for tire wear.
What does the protector do?
Car tire, according to driving instructors, is considered unsuitable for use if the tread wear is at the limit value. It is also recommended to change the tires if they are damaged, there are breaks or cuts in the cords, through breakdowns, swelling of the sidewall or tread, delamination of the carcass, tearing of the beads, etc.
If you do not change your tire on time, you will endanger not only your own safety, but also the safety of those around you.
This is especially true in bad weather conditions, for example, in case of rain. The water will not be drained away from the tyre, and this usually leads to hydroplaning at high speeds. It must be said that drivers who have just completed driving training and do not yet have sufficient experience often fall into a zone of such risk.
It's all about the Gazelle
Under the new law, Gazel trucks may not change tires as long as the tread depth is at least 1.6 millimeters. For minibuses, this limit is set at 2 mm. Most likely, the whole problem lies precisely in the Gazelles. The SDA (permission to operate the vehicle) states that the residual tread height of a passenger car tire should be 1.6 mm, for buses this value is 2 mm, for trucks - 1 mm, for mopeds and motorcycles - 0.8.
Thus, for the Gazelle, the figure is set to 1.6, since the mass of this vehicle is not more than three and a half tons, but according to other parameters, the Gazelle is a truck that is used to transport goods, and this is category N1.
Vehicle classification
In our country, it is generally difficult to classify vehicles. For example, what are pickup trucks? In the Russian and international classification, this is N1, but they can be managed by a person with category B.
Here, the machines are already divided by functionality. Note that many pickup trucks cannot enter the city center without an appropriate pass, in particular those with a carrying capacity of more than a ton. Such cars can be driven with category C.
New rules
Today it was decided to indicate the remaining tire tread depths for each vehicle.
- Category L: mopeds, motorcycles, motorbikes, scooters, quadricycles and tricycles - at least 0.8 mm.
- Categories O3, O4, N2, N3: trailers and trucks (weight over 3.5 tons) - 1.0.
- Categories O1, O2, M1, N1: cars, trailers and vehicles with a mass of 3.5, maximum - 1.6.
- Categories M2, M3: this includes buses with more than 8 passenger seats - 2.
Changes have also been made to the operation of winter tires.
Now, the remaining tread depth on tires for winter use (for snowy or icy road surfaces) should be 4 mm, maximum.
Recall that winter tires have a sign in the form of a mountain peak with a snowflake inside and three peaks.
How to check tread depth?
Some tires have a wear indicator. If this is not the case, then measurements are taken with a caliper.
What penalties will be for insufficient tread depth is not yet known. As they say in the traffic police, first you need to introduce new requirements and norms, and then think about fines.
Video on how to check tires for wear:
Be careful on the road and don't forget about tire wear!
This article uses an image from drugasmuga.com
