In short
In Italy the tread must be at least 1.6 mm for cars, lorries and trailers, 1 mm for motorcycles and 0.5 mm for mopeds; below that value the tyre must be replaced. Besides wear, age counts (Michelin recommends an annual check after 5 years and replacement 10 years after production) and so does visible damage such as cracks, bulges and cuts.
The legal limit
| Vehicle | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Cars, lorries and trailers | 1.6 mm |
| Motorcycles | 1.0 mm |
| Mopeds | 0.5 mm |
Anyone driving with worn or defective tyres risks a fine of 87 to 344 euro (art. 79 of the Italian Highway Code, Codice della Strada). For motorcycles, Pirelli recommends replacing tyres as soon as the tread falls below 2 mm.
How to check wear
- Look at the wear indicators (TWI) in the main grooves: they are small ridges that, when you reach the limit, are flush with the tread.
- Measure the depth with a depth gauge at several points of the tread, including the edges.
- Check that wear is even: if it is heavier on the edges or on one side only, you may have a pressure or alignment problem.
- Look on the sidewall and tread for cracks, bulges, cuts or deformations: they are a reason for replacement even with plenty of tread.
The age of the tyre
The last four digits of the DOT code show the week and year of production: 2324 means week 23 of 2024. The Italian legislation we consulted does not set a maximum age for the tyre, but Michelin recommends a check by a professional at least once a year after five years of use and replacement ten years after the production date, regardless of the tread.
A check in the workshop
If you have doubts about the condition of your tyres, bring them to our workshop or send us a photo on WhatsApp with the size: we tell you what we see and whether it is worth replacing them. If they need replacing, the quote includes fitting, balancing and disposal.
Frequently asked questions
How deep must the tread be by law?
At least 1.6 mm for cars, lorries and trailers, 1 mm for motorcycles and 0.5 mm for mopeds (Law 142/1992, which transposes Directive 89/459/EEC).
What do you risk with bald tyres?
A fine of 87 to 344 euro (art. 79 of the Italian Highway Code, Codice della Strada), as well as a real safety risk, especially in the wet.
Is there a maximum age for tyres?
We found no age limit in Italian legislation. Michelin recommends an annual check after 5 years and replacement 10 years after production.
How do I read the production date?
On the sidewall, after the letters DOT, the last four digits: the first two indicate the week, the last two the year.
Sources
Updated on October 5, 2026 by Pneumatici SuperStore, Via Enrico Cosenz 63/1, Milano.