Understanding Aquaplaning... Have You Checked Your Tread Lately?

Aquaplaning, also known as hydroplaning, is something that occurs when the car loses its grip with the road and "glides" across a body of water. It can be a scary experience for many drivers, as it causes a sudden loss of control. It's important to know what can be done to prevent it, and unsurprisingly your tyres play a crucial role in preventing such a scary experience!

What Causes Aquaplaning?

Aquaplaning occurs when water builds up between the tyres and the road surface faster than the tyres can disperse it. This creates a thin layer of water that prevents direct contact between the tyres and the road, leading to a significant loss of traction and the vehicle will glide across the water surface rather than remaining in contact with the road.

Of course, if you hit deeper water, you're less likely to be able to control aquaplaning. However, in slightly shallower water your tyres tread depths could really play a huge part in preventing hydroplaning.

The legal minimum tread depth on tyres in the UK is 1.6mm in a continuous band across the central 3/4 of the tyre. If car tyres have only a tread depth of 1.6mm for example, then water displacement is effectively and dramatically reduced. If tyres have a tread depth of 3mm remaining, tyres can still retain a high amount of their water displacement capability. After this point, the risk of hydroplaning increases dramatically.

More Tread = More Water Dispersion

Several factors contribute to aquaplaning, including:

Water Depth: The deeper the water, the higher the likelihood of aquaplaning. Even small puddles can be dangerous if driving at high speeds.

Tyre Tread Depth: Worn-out tyres with low tread depth cannot effectively channel water away, increasing the risk of aquaplaning.

Speed: Higher speeds reduce the tyre's ability to push water away. Driving too fast in wet conditions significantly raises the risk of losing control.

Tyre Pressure: Underinflated or overinflated tyres affect the contact patch with the road, making it easier for water to lift the tyres off the surface.

Road Surface: Roads with poor drainage or worn-out surfaces tend to accumulate more water, making them prone to aquaplaning.

Some of the main factors can be out of your control. We understand that you often cannot tell how deep surface water is and of course the condition of the roads is out of our hands! However, your tread depth and tyre pressure are something you can control!

Checking Your Tyres...

Tyre maintenance is one of the most important parts of your regular vehicle checks.

Start by checking the tread depth—use a 20p coin to ensure it meets the legal 1.6mm minimum.

20p_test

Also inspect your tyres for uneven wear, cuts, or bulges that may indicate damage.

Tyre pressure should be checked monthly using a reliable gauge and set to the manufacturer's recommendation. Also, look for any embedded objects like nails that could cause slow punctures. Keeping your tyres in good condition ensures better grip, fuel efficiency, and overall road safety.