New Tyre Tread Depth KIA Sportage IV (QL, QLE) (09.2015 - ...)

For your 2015 Kia Sportage, the legal tyre tread depth requirement in the UK is a minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre’s tread pattern and around the entire circumference of the tyre. This means your tyres must have at least 1.6mm tread depth in that area to be road legal and safe.

However, while 1.6mm is the legal minimum, experts strongly recommend replacing tyres once tread depth reaches around 3mm, as tyre performance—especially grip and stopping distances—starts to deteriorate significantly below this. For example, at 1.6mm tread depth in wet conditions, stopping distances can increase by about two car lengths at 50 mph compared to tyres with 3mm tread.

Tips for Measuring Tread Depth Accurately at Home
1. Use a tread depth gauge:
This is the most accurate tool and inexpensive to buy. Insert the probe into the tyre grooves and read the measurement. Check multiple points across the central three-quarters of the tread and around the tyre circumference to ensure even wear.
2. Use a 20p coin test:
Insert a 20p coin into the tyre tread with the outer band facing down. If the outer band is fully visible, the tread is below the legal limit and the tyre needs replacing.
3. Check tread wear indicators:
Modern tyres have built-in tread wear indicators—small raised bars in the grooves. When the tread wears down to these bars, the tyre is at or below the legal limit.
4. Measure in several places:
Tyre wear can be uneven, so measure tread depth at different points across the tyre width and around the tyre to get a full picture.

Additional Advice
- Regularly inspect your tyres for other issues like cuts, bulges, or embedded objects, as these can also make tyres unsafe regardless of tread depth.
- Keep tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure to ensure even wear and optimal performance.
- If in doubt, have a professional garage or tyre specialist check your tyres.

In summary, for your Kia Sportage, ensure your tyres have at least 1.6mm tread depth legally, but aim to replace them earlier—around 3mm—for safety, especially in wet UK conditions. Using a tread depth gauge or simple coin test at home can help you monitor this easily.