How to Check Tire Tread

Taking proper care of the tires on your car, truck, or SUV will ensure that you enjoy a safe and smooth ride on Stoneham-area roads and beyond. Along with regularly monitoring your tire pressure, it is also important that you know how to check tire tread. Driving with worn out tires will negatively affect traction and can increase the chance of a blowout. So, how do I measure tire tread depth? Find out in this guide from the experts in the Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield Service Center. If it’s time to replace your tires, schedule an appointment with us in Wakefield today!

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth? 

New tires typically have a tread depth of about 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch. Winter tires, tires designed for off-roading, and some truck and SUV tires have even deeper tread grooves. The U.S. Department of Transportation recommends that you replace your tires when the tread wears down to 2/32 of an inch. The best way to promote even tread wear and get the most out of your tires is to keep up-to-date with your tire rotation schedule.

How To Measure Tire Tread Depth

You’ll find that most tires come with tread wear indicator bars which are at the bottom of the tread grooves in multiple locations across the tire. If the bars are flush with the tire ribs that surround them, it indicates that the tread depth has reached 2/32 of an inch. For a more accurate reading, you can pick up a tire tread depth gauge at your local Medford-area auto parts store or use a ruler. If you don’t have a gauge or ruler handy, you can always try the tire tread penny test. Here’s how it works:

1. Insert a penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
2. If Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves, you have plenty of tire tread depth.
3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, that means your tire treads are 2/32 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.

Get Professional Tire Care at Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield!

Knowing how to check tire tread and how to measure tire tread depth using the tire tread penny test will not only help to maintain safety but ensure that your vehicle delivers confident handling and optimal efficiency wherever you drive. When you’re ready for your next tire rotation, wheel balancing and alignment, or tire replacement, you can count on the team at Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield. We offer the full range of tire care services, and with our rotating service specials, you can take advantage of some of the best deals in the Wakefield area. Feel free to contact our Service Center if you have any questions or concerns, and if you’re ready for a new set of tires, make use of our convenient online tire finder.