How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Cadillac Tire

If you’re driving around South Jersey, NJ, you should keep the health of your tires in the back of your mind. That’s because healthy tires mean a better ride and better gas mileage. A thin tire tread depth is a sign it’s time to change tires, so we at Cadillac of Turnersville are here to give you a handy guide on how to check tire tread depth at home.

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WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY TIRES?

When your tires are new, you will discover that they have a tread depth close to 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch, somewhere around a third of an inch. Starting tread depth may vary if you have specialized tires, but your tires will always wear down gradually over time. When your tread depth thins to 2/32 of an inch or less, your tire tread depth is dangerously thin and you’ll need to replace your tires soon.

THE PENNY TEST: A GREAT WAY TO CHECK

You might wonder “how do I check tire tread wear?” There are a few ways of checking, actually. While it would be best for you to use a tire tread gauge or a ruler to determine the depth of your tire treads, if you want to know how to check tire tread depth with something you’ll see everywhere in Philadelphia, PA, there’s always the penny test. It just takes a simple American penny. Here’s how you do it:

  1. Stick the penny into the tire tread groove, with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing down and toward you.
  2. Check to see if Lincoln’s head is covered or visible.
  3. If you see the entirety of Lincoln’s face, your tire tread depth is too thin and your tires need to be replaced.
  4. Be sure to check your tires in multiple places and on each tire, because the wear on your tires doesn’t always happen evenly.

MAKING YOUR TIRES LAST THE LONGEST

While it might not be a challenge to check your tire tread depth, if you’re asking “how do I check tire tread wear?” you might also want to perform these tire care tasks, like:

  • Being vigilant for tire damage like cracks or bulging
  • Keeping a lookout for tire rot or disintegration
  • Making sure your tire wear is even and your tires aren’t misaligned
  • Keep your tires inflated with help from your TPMS

You should also know that you should check your tire pressure at least once a month to keep your tires regularly rotated by yourself or a professional. Tire rotations are essential in making sure that tires wear down evenly.

CADILLAC OF TURNERSVILLE: YOUR TIRE CARE EXPERTS

Cadillac Of Turnersville is your source for tire care in the South Jersey, NJ region. We have everything you need when it comes to tires, whether you’re searching for basic maintenance or a a brand new set. We’ll even help you find the best tires for your car. Interested in learning more? Get in touch with us online before you drive in from Mount Laurel, NJ. Looking for other DIY tips? Learn how to clean a car windshield inside today!