How To Check Tire Tread Depth

How do I check tire tread wear? Learning how to check tire tread depth is surprisingly easy, and you can even complete the process with items you find around the house. Maintaining good tire traction is key to better performance, fuel economy, and handling on the Lincoln roads. So, it’s well worth the minor time investment to keep your car running like a dream! Find out how to check tire tread depth like a pro with Sid Dillon Ford Crete, and get more service tips with our team in Crete!

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

A brand new set of tires comes fresh from the factory with about 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch of depth (about a third of an inch). There are some exceptions, like winter tires and off-road tires that have even deeper tread. But according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, you should replace your tires when their tread depth measures 2/32 of an inch. This ensures that you have enough tread depth to grip the Seward roads properly.

How to Check Tire Tread Depth: The Penny Test

How do I check tire tread wear accurately? You can pick up a tire tread depth gauge at our parts department if you’d like, but you can also use a ruler or even a penny. A standard U.S. penny is one of the most popular choices to measure tread depth because of its convenience. Here’s how to check tire tread depth with just one cent on hand:

1. Insert the penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
2. Check if 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 2/32 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.

What Are Other Ways to Check Your Tire Tread Depth?

While the penny test is tried-and-true with Omaha drivers, there are also other more specialized tools used to measure tire tread depth. These include:

• Tread Depth Gauge: A tread depth gauge is an inexpensive tool that’s easy to store in your glove compartment. Just insert the probe into the shallowest tread groove of your tire, then press the top bar of the gauge flat against the tire to see the tread wear rating. Repeat the process across your set.
• Tread Wear Bars: Some tires have tread wear indicator bars built directly into the rubber, so look at the bottom of the tread grooves to see if you have any. If the bars are flush with the surrounding tire ribs, this means that the tread depth has reached 2/32 of an inch and must be replaced.

Get Expert Tire Care with Sid Dillon Ford Crete

Whether you want to pick up a tire tread depth gauge or a new set of winter tires, visit Sid Dillon Ford Crete in Crete for all of your tire care needs. We’d be happy to perform your next tire rotation and alignment, so contact us to learn more about our offerings.