How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Some Paso Robles drivers might be asking, “Why is tire tread depth important?” and “How do I check tire tread wear?” As you drive around San Luis Obispo tire treads grip the roadways allowing you to remain in control of your vehicle. Over time, your tire tread depth gradually decreases, lessening the amount of traction between your tires and the road. If your tire tread depth isn’t deep enough, this could put you in a precarious situation, especially during inclement conditions.

Curious about how to check tire tread depth? In the following guide, Mullahey Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM will answer the question, “How do I check tire tread wear?” If you have additional questions, call us at 805-257-0305 or reach out online. 

What is The Recommended Tire Tread Depth? 

So before answering “How to check tire tread?” let’s look at what’s the recommended tire tread depth. On average, they will have a depth of about 10/34 or 11/32 of an inch (About a third of an inch). By contrast, winter tires and off-road tires, alongside some truck and SUV tires, will have deep tread grooves.

How do you know when it’s time to replace your tires? According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, you should replace your tires when their tread depth is measuring at 2/32 of an inch. Maintaining the proper tread depth is ideal for driving safely around Fresno.

How to Check Tire Tread Depth: The Penny Test

While rulers can be the most accurate way to measure tire tread depth, a penny can suffice! The design of the American penny makes it a perfect tool for measuring tire tread depth. Follow how to check tire tread depth below:

1. Insert the penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
2. Check if President Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tire treads are 2/34 inches deep or less, and it’s time to replace them.
4. Repeat this process on all four tires and in multiple locations on each tire.

What Are Other Ways to Check Your Tire Tread Depth?

If you don’t have a penny, here are a couple of other methods you can use on how to check tire tread depth:

• Tread Depth Gauge: You can purchase a tread depth gauge from any Bakersfield area auto parts store. Insert the probe into the shallowest tread groove, then press the top bar of the gauge flat against the tire to see the tread wear rating.
• Tread Wear Bars: Most tires have tread wear indicator bars built into them, and you’ll be able to find them at the bottom of the tread grooves in multiple locations across the tires. If the bars are flush with the surrounding tire ribs, this means that the tread depth has reached 2/32 of an inch. 

Keep Your Tires in Excellent Condition With Mullahey Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM

Now that you have an answer to “How do I check tire tread wear?” if you need a replacement, the service center at Mullahey Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM is here to help. Be sure to order parts if your vehicle needs to have worn-out pieces replaced.

Don’t forget to check out our Mopar coupons and save on your next service visit as well. Keep your vehicle at peak performance with Mullahey Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM today!