How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Want to learn more about “how do I check tire tread wear” and “why is tire tread depth important?” Learn more at Welborn GMC Of Cartersville near Rome, so that when the time comes you know when you need to change your tires. Over time, your tire’s tread depth will decrease, lessening the amount of traction between the tire and the road.

If you do not check your tire tread depth, this can put you in a precarious situation, especially if you find yourself in inclement weather when roads are slippery with poor traction. Learn more about the tire tread depth test with our service team at Welborn GMC Of Cartersville, where all you need is a ruler and a penny all from the comfort of your own home. Find out how to check tire tread depth today.

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth? 

Maintaining the proper tread depth is important to drive safely in Acworth, but how do you know when it’s time to replace your tires? If you are looking to purchase a new set of tires, you’ll start with about 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch). Winter tires and off-roading tires have deeper tread grooves, especially with trucks and SUV tires. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the ideal time to replace your tire is when your tread depth is measured at 2/32 of an inch. 

How to Check Tire Tread Depth: The Penny Test

While a ruler is the best and most accurate measuring of tire tread depth, you can also use a penny to check it. The design of a penny is perfect for measuring tire wear. Follow these steps to check the tire tread depth on your tires:

1. Insert the penny head-first in our tire tread groove.
2. Check to see if the Lincoln head is covered and is no longer visible in between the grooves.
3. If you can see all of the Lincoln head, the tire tread is 2/32 inches deep. If it is less than that it is time to replace your tires.
4. Repeat this process on all four tires and in multiple locations on each tire.

Check Your Tires With Welborn GMC Of Cartersville

Now that you know how to measure the tire tread depth on your own, you can also consult our tire department if you have more questions. Schedule service with us today.