Martin Lewis says 20p item could help drivers save £54 on MOT tests

Martin Lewis has suggested drivers could save up to £54 on their MOT test by using a 20p item before heading to the garage. The Money Saving Expert founder has encouraged motorists to use a 20p coin to check their tyre tread depth before their next appointment. Tyre tread and pressures are a major part of the annual test and those found not to be compliant will fail and have to be re-assessed. The average cost of an MOT test in the UK is £54.85 which could be a blow to families amid the cost-of-living crisis. According to the RAC , tyre defects account for 10 percent of all failures at MOT tests every year. Martin Lewis has opened up on a 20p tip (Image: Getty / ITV) Meanwhile, KwikFit claims 69 percent of motorists are not aware of what the legal tread depth is, meaning thousands of road users could benefit from the tip. Lewis told MoneySavingExpert : “Check tyre tread. This is the depth of grooves for road grip. The legal minimum’s 1.6mm for a car tyre (enough to let surface water slip through). ‘To measure, use the quick 20p tyre test detailed on the TyreSafe website. Pop a 20p coin on its edge into the main grooves of the tyre tread. If the outer rim of the coin is hidden, your tyres should be legal. If you can see it, get them checked.’ Tyre tread depth is vital and plays a big role in breaking distances and staying safe in the rain. As a tyre wears down, the level of grip dramatically decreases which will have a massive effect on your ability to stop the car. Drivers can check their tread depth using a 20p coin (Image: GEM Motoring Assist) According to Continental, motorists could brake 14 metres shorter within a new 8mm tyre than the legally mandated 1.6mm. Rain is also a factor with bald tyres more likely to lead to aquaplaning in inclement conditions. KwikFit warns that tread patterns are designed in a way to remove water from the surface allowing road users to stay in a straight line. Failure to meet the rules could also see motorists hit with major fines with a £2,500 charge in place for each tyre which doesn’t comply. TyreSafe urges drivers to take the 20p test as often as once a month to ensure the car remains road legal over the summer. They said: ‘Simply place a 20p coin into the main tread grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the 20p coin is obscured when it is inserted, then your tread is above the legal limit. ‘If the outer band of the coin is visible, then your tyres may be illegal and unsafe and should be checked immediately by a qualified tyre professional. ‘When taking the test, remember to check at least three locations around each tyre.’