DIY: How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Your tires are in constant contact with the road, which is why it’s important that they are always in the best condition possible. Whether it’s by scheduling routine maintenance such as tire rotations, or learning how to check the tire tread wear yourself, it’s the little steps that can prevent a potentially big problem down the line— such as a blowout or accident. Find out how Boaz drivers are staying on top of how to check their tire tread depth, as well as the answers to questions like, “What is the penny test?”

Why is Checking Tire Tread Depth So Important?

Balding or bald tires increase the likelihood of a flat tire or a blowout, which can be dangerous for Guntersville drivers. Tire tread depth can affect your stopping distance, which is important during rainy or snowy conditions. Regularly inspecting your tires, and knowing how to check your tire tread wear, are important to make sure you’re staying safe on the road. Tires that are in good condition and properly inflated also give you a more fuel-efficient performance, both on the highway and in the city.

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

New tires typically come with a tread depth of 10/32 of an inch to 11/32 of an inch. If they wear down to 2/32 of an inch or less of tread depth, they should be replaced as soon as possible. Off-roading tires, winter tires, and some truck and SUV tires have deeper treads— so you should consult your owner’s manual for information regarding tread depth for your specific tires. If at any point you have questions, or you feel like you need a tire change, you can schedule an appointment in our service center Gadsden. Our experienced technicians can inspect your tires, and install new ones if necessary.

What is the Penny Test?

How do you check your tire tread depth? Most new tires come with tread wear indicator bars that show when the tread has worn down. They are located at the bottom of the tread grooves in several locations on the tire. When the bars are flush with the tread, it means that there is 2/32 of an inch or less tread remaining.

While you can purchase a tire tread depth gauge at any local auto store in Albertville, there’s a quick and easy way to check tread depth by using a penny.

1. Insert a penny into a tire tread groove, with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you.
2. Is Lincoln’s head covered by the tread? If so, you have enough tread depth remaining.
3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, then your tire treads are 2/32 of an inch deep or less, and it’s time to get a new tire.

You should check the tread depth on all four tires and in different locations on each tire to ensure they are wearing evenly. Uneven wear indicates that you should schedule a tire rotation or wheel alignment.

Let Our Expert Team Handle It All

Now that you know how to check your tire tread depth, as well as the secret behind the penny test, your next step is letting our expert service center handle all of your maintenance needs. If you’d rather take care of your service yourself as a DIY project, don’t forget to speak to our parts department, to make sure you’re getting only the best genuine MOPAR parts. You can also find out about the TPMS system, and how it can help keep you safe.