Tyre Depth Gauges & Pressure Gauges

About Tyre Depth Gauges & Pressure Gauges

Tyre depth gauges and pressure gauges are essential diagnostic tools for anyone responsible for vehicle maintenance and safety. Whether you're running a professional garage, operating a fleet of vehicles, or simply maintaining your own car, these precision instruments help ensure tyres are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth to meet UK legal requirements and optimise safety on the road.

Tyre pressure gauges measure the air pressure inside tyres, typically displayed in PSI (pounds per square inch) or BAR. Maintaining correct tyre pressure is crucial for fuel efficiency, tyre longevity, and safe handling characteristics. Meanwhile, tyre tread depth gauges measure the remaining depth of tyre tread grooves, helping you determine when tyres need replacing. In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread width, though many professionals recommend replacing tyres at 3mm for optimal wet weather performance.

Our range includes digital and analogue models from trusted brands including Sealey, Draper, Faithfull, and Facom. From basic pencil-style pressure gauges perfect for keeping in your van or toolbox, to professional digital combination gauges that measure both pressure and tread depth, we stock instruments suitable for mobile mechanics, tyre fitters, fleet maintenance teams, and DIY enthusiasts who take vehicle safety seriously.

Jargon Buster

• PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) - The imperial unit of pressure measurement commonly used for tyre inflation in the UK, alongside BAR. Most vehicle manufacturers specify tyre pressures in both units.
• BAR - A metric unit of pressure approximately equal to atmospheric pressure at sea level. 1 BAR equals approximately 14.5 PSI. Many European vehicles specify recommended pressures in BAR.
• Tread Depth - The vertical measurement from the top of the tyre's tread rubber to the bottom of the tyre's deepest grooves, measured in millimetres. UK law requires a minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread.
• Cold Pressure - Tyre pressure measured when tyres are cold (haven't been driven for at least two hours). This is the recommended state for checking pressures as driving heats tyres and increases pressure readings.
• Digital Gauge - An electronic measuring instrument with an LCD display that provides precise digital readings, often featuring automatic shut-off and memory functions.
• Dial Gauge - An analogue gauge with a circular dial and needle pointer, prized for durability and reliability in workshop environments without requiring batteries.

Who Uses Tyre Depth Gauges & Pressure Gauges?

• Mobile Mechanics - Performing roadside vehicle checks and pre-MOT inspections
• Tyre Fitters and Specialists - Daily use in tyre centres and fast-fit operations
• Fleet Maintenance Technicians - Regular safety checks on company vehicle fleets
• MOT Testers - Verifying tyre condition meets legal standards during annual tests
• Garage and Workshop Owners - General vehicle servicing and safety inspections
• HGV and PSV Mechanics - Maintaining commercial vehicle fleets to operator licence standards
• Recovery and Breakdown Services - Diagnosing tyre-related issues at roadside callouts
• Driving Instructors - Teaching vehicle maintenance checks and ensuring learner vehicle safety
• DIY Enthusiasts and Home Mechanics - Regular personal vehicle maintenance and pre-journey checks
• Caravan and Motorhome Owners - Seasonal checks for leisure vehicles with specific pressure requirements

How to Choose the Right Tyre Depth Gauges & Pressure Gauges

Digital vs Analogue: Digital gauges offer precise readings and are easy to read in any lighting conditions, making them ideal for mobile work and detailed diagnostics. Analogue dial gauges are extremely durable, never need batteries, and are often preferred in busy workshop environments where they can withstand knocks and drops.

Measurement Range: For standard cars and light commercial vehicles, a pressure gauge reading up to 60 PSI is usually sufficient. If you work with HGVs, agricultural vehicles, or specialist equipment, you'll need gauges with higher maximum readings, typically 100-160 PSI.

Unit Display: Choose gauges that display in your preferred units. Many digital models show both PSI and BAR simultaneously, which is particularly useful when working with a mix of UK and European vehicles with different manufacturer specifications.

Combination Tools: Several models in our range offer both pressure and tread depth measurement in a single compact unit. These are excellent value for mobile mechanics and save valuable space in your toolbox or van storage.

Build Quality and Brand: Professional-grade gauges from manufacturers like Sealey, Draper, and Facom are calibrated for accuracy and built to withstand daily workshop use. Cheaper gauges may drift out of calibration quickly, potentially leading to incorrect readings and safety issues.

Additional Features: Look for features like backlit displays for working in poor light, automatic shut-off to preserve battery life, pressure release valves, flexible hoses for awkward valve positions, and protective rubber sleeves for durability on site.

Popular Accessories

• Tyre Inflators and Air Compressors - Once you've measured pressure, you'll need equipment to adjust it
• Valve Caps and Valve Core Tools - Essential items for complete tyre maintenance
• Tyre Service Kits - Combined sets including gauges, inflators, and repair tools
• Air Line Connectors and Quick-Release Couplings - Professional workshop fittings for efficient operation
• Protective Tool Cases - Keep precision instruments safe during transport and storage
• Tyre Levers and Bead Breakers - Complementary tools for complete tyre servicing
• Replacement Batteries - Keep digital gauges operational with spare power sources

Safety Information

Always check tyre pressure when tyres are cold, as pressure increases significantly with heat generated during driving. Be aware that over-inflated tyres can burst unexpectedly, particularly when hot, so never exceed the maximum pressure marked on the tyre sidewall. When measuring tread depth, ensure the vehicle is on level ground with the handbrake applied.

Remember that UK law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, but HSE guidance for commercial vehicles often recommends replacement at 3mm for improved wet weather safety. Regular tyre checks aren't just about legal compliance—they're essential for preventing accidents, reducing fuel consumption, and extending tyre life.

When using pressure gauges with air lines in workshop environments, always wear appropriate PPE including safety glasses, as compressed air systems can cause debris to become airborne. Ensure compressed air equipment is properly maintained and regulated to prevent over-inflation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my tyre pressure?
You should check tyre pressures at least monthly and before any long journeys. Many professionals recommend weekly checks for commercial vehicles and fleet operations. Always check when tyres are cold for accurate readings, and don't forget the spare tyre.

What's the difference between a pencil gauge and a dial gauge?
Pencil gauges are compact, affordable, and perfect for occasional use or keeping in your glovebox. Dial gauges are more accurate, easier to read, and better suited to frequent professional use. Both types are reliable when properly maintained and from quality manufacturers like Sealey or Draper.

Do digital tyre gauges need calibrating?
Yes, all gauges—digital and analogue—should be checked for accuracy periodically, particularly if used professionally. You can verify accuracy against a known-good reference gauge or have them professionally calibrated. Digital gauges are generally very accurate out of the box but can drift over time.

Can I use the same gauge for cars and commercial vehicles?
Standard car gauges typically read up to 50-60 PSI, which is sufficient for most cars and light vans. Commercial vehicles, especially HGVs and those with dual rear wheels, often require pressures of 80-120 PSI, so you'll need a gauge with an appropriate range for these applications.

What tread depth should I replace tyres at?
While the UK legal minimum is 1.6mm, most tyre manufacturers and safety organisations recommend replacing tyres at 3mm. Below this depth, wet weather performance deteriorates significantly, increasing stopping distances and the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.