Providing partners and road users with a simple, user-friendly tool to support tyre tread checks.

TyreSafe, the UK’s road safety charity, dedicated to raising awareness of tyre safety, is proud to announce a new partnership with Auto Items Ltd, creators of the ‘Tread Buddy’, a simple, effective tool designed to help road users monitor tyre tread depth and stay safe and legal on the road.

The partnership comes at a critical time when economic hardship is pushing many road users to delay essential tyre maintenance. With tread depth being a key indicator of tyre safety, the risk of incidents caused by illegal or worn tyres is heightened. For many, the threat of fines remains the main motivator for replacement.

TyreSafe’s own research, identified an estimated 6 million tyres on the UK’s roads with illegal tread, with a further significant proportion approaching the legal limit. (Source: TyreSafe 2023 Tread Depth Survey).

What is a Tread Buddy?
The Tread Buddy is a pocket-sized tool offering a quick and easy way to measure tread depth. Designed to meet the needs of all drivers, it features dual-sided indicators for cars and 4x4s, which have a 1.6mm minimum legal tread depth, and HGVs and motorcycles which have a 1mm minimum legal tread depth.

With clear instructions and space for branding, the Tread Buddy is already a favourite among industry leaders and road safety advocates, many of whom have forged important partnerships with TyreSafe.

Karen Carr, Director of Auto Items Ltd., said “When we launched the original Tread Buddy in 2011, we wanted to create a tool that was not only practical but also addressed the real challenges drivers face. Many don’t know what the legal tread depths are, and some feel apprehensive about visiting garages for checks. The Tread Buddy eliminates guesswork and provides a simple, approachable way to engage drivers in tyre safety.”

The partnership also offers exclusive benefits to TyreSafe members and supporters. Until March 2025, members can access special discounts on Tread Buddy orders using the code TYRESAFE when requesting a quote.

Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair, said “Tyre safety is a shared responsibility, and the Tread Buddy is an excellent example of how simple tools can make a significant difference. This partnership reflects our commitment to making tyre safety accessible and actionable for everyone, particularly during challenging times. Additionally, by working with Tread Buddy, our partners can now access a significant discount to help in local community safety engagement.”

For more information on the partnership and to learn how Tread Buddies can support your road safety initiatives, visit: www.tyresafe.org/tread-buddy-your-partner-in-tyre-safety