How to Check Tire Tread Depth

If you suspect your tires need to be replaced but you don’t want to make the investment prematurely, you’ll probably wonder: how do I check tire tread wear? Learning how to check tire tread depth is simple and can be done at home in Greensboro – all you need is a ruler or a penny! Learn more with the service center at Terry Labonte Chevrolet, below.

WHAT IS THE CORRECT TIRE TREAD DEPTH?

When tires are still new, they have a tread depth of around 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch). Beefier tires like winter tires and all-terrain tires, as well as some truck and SUV tires, may have deeper tread grooves.

The U.S. Department of Transportation recommends replacing your tires when the tread reaches 2/32 of an inch. It’s important to follow this recommendation so you always have good traction on Winston-Salem roads and highways.

HOW DO I CHECK TIRE TREAD WEAR WITH A PENNY?

The most accurate tool for checking tire tread depth is a ruler. But if you’re out and about in High Point and need to check the tread depth, a penny will work just fine. So long as it’s a new enough penny that you can still see Abe Lincoln’s face, you’ll have no problem using this method. Here’s how to check tire tread depth with a penny:

• Insert your penny into a tire tread groove, positioned with Lincoln’s head face-first.
• Observe whether Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
• If Lincoln’s head is not covered and you can clearly see his face, this indicates a tire tread depth of 2/32 of an inch or less, signaling a need for tire replacement.
• Repeat these steps on all four tires, in several locations of each tire for accuracy.

MORE TOOLS FOR CHECKING TIRE TREAD DEPTH

In addition to measuring with a ruler or using a penny, there are a couple more ways to check tire tread depth. One way is built into your tires, called tread wear indicators or tread wear bars. These are situated at the very bottom of the tire tread grooves, spaced evenly across the tire. You often won’t see these bars until the tires are completely bald, so if they’re visible, you should get new tires immediately as it means you’re driving with essentially zero traction.

Another handy tool is called a tire tread depth gauge, which can be purchased online or at any auto parts store in your area. Simply insert the probe into the shallowest point in your tire grooves, then press the two outer bars of the probe flat against the tread to get a treadwear rating.

While you’re checking your tire tread depth, you should also take note of the following points:

• Tire pressure
• Visible tire damage
• Tire rot or disintegration
• Wheel alignment

FIND NEW TIRES AT TERRY LABONTE CHEVROLET!

When you’re searching for high-quality new tires for your Chevrolet car, truck, or SUV, turn to the tire center at Terry Labonte Chevrolet! Our tire experts will help you choose the best new tires for your driving needs and your vehicle, and we’ll get them installed in a timely manner. Before purchasing a new set, be sure to check out our service and parts specials, as you’ll often find money-saving tire rebates and price matching coupons!