How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Why bother checking tire tread depth?  Tire tread is what keeps your tires on the road.  When driving in rain or snow the tread is designed to throw the water or snow out from underneath the tires so that you do not lose control of your vehicle due to hydroplaning or other traction related issues.  You should check your tire tread depth every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.  This can alert you to tire wear and tire damage.  You can check your tire tread depth by using a tread depth gauge for a more accurate measurement or you can perform a quick check by using a penny.

The first and most reliable method is to use a tire tread depth gauge.  Once you have obtained a tread depth gauge, just follow the directions for the product to get the instrument ready for measuring.  You should check the tread in several places from the outer edge of the tire, to the center, to the opposite outer edge of the tire for an overall reading.  The tread should be 2/32-inch deep or more.  If you live in areas where snow is prevalent or you often drive on roads that tend to gather standing water during rain showers you may want to consider having more tread to help move your tires through the rain or snow.

The second way to check tire tread depth is through the use of a penny.  Yes, a one cent copper penny that you probably have lying around somewhere!  Although not as reliable as a tread depth gauge, a penny will give you a very good estimate of your tire tread.  How is this?  Well, the distance from the very top of Abe Lincoln's head to the edge of the penny is.. you guess it! 2/32-inch.  To check the tread depth with the penny, hold the penny with your thumb and index finger with Abe's head upside down.  Insert the penny into the grooves between the tread and make sure that you have Abe's head upside down and facing you.  If the tread is covering up any part of his head then chances are your tread is still good.  However, if any of the area above his head is visible it is probably time to replace your tires.  If you are not sure you could always check with a tread gauge or seek the advice of a qualified mechanic.

If you have a tire that needs to be replaced you should replace all of your tires at once.  You should avoid purchasing one tire at a time because if you do so, all of your tires will be at different stages of tread wear.  Also, be sure to check the tire pressure frequently.  Overinflation can cause your tires to wear rapidly in the center and underinflation can cause rapid wear on the outer edges of the tire.  Wheels that are out of balance or need alignment will also produce unnecessary wear on your tires.  If you have any questions about the cause of the tire wear you should seek the advice of a qualified mechanic.