\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. As a best practice, you should check the tread on each tire every 3,000 miles or once it reaches 4/32 of an inch deep. How Fast Will Tires Wear With Bad Alignment? As tires age, they become more prone to failure, whether they have been used or not. Today, we want to share our experience and knowledge about monitoring your tires health with a few simple steps. While you cant get an exact measurement from your wear bars, you can get a good idea of how closely your tires are coming to reaching the minimum depth or whether they have already reached that point by a simple visual inspection. The old standard for checking tire tread used a penny. It doesnt matter if you do this on the side or top of the tire. The penny test is an accurate way to measure whether tire tread depth surpasses or falls short of 2/32nds of an inch, since 2/32nds of an inch is the universally standard distance between the top of Lincolns head and the edge of the coin (see above for an explanation of how to do the test). wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. A recent Consumer Reports study of tires worn down to half of their original tread depth (about 5/32) found increased risk of hydroplaning, longer stop time in the rain, and reduced snow traction.5. However, tire experts recommend you replace your tires is when the tread is worn down to between 4/32 and 3/32. He enjoys helping us out and Chris always values his opinion when designing something new for the website. A tire with a tread depth of 4/32nds of an inch will generally stop half again as fast as a new tire. Do I Have To Get New Tires With New Rims? Inflate the tires with an air compressor if the pressure is too low. If the top of Lincoln's head is always covered, you have more than 2/32 of tread remaining. For that, you'll need protection.. If Honest Abe's head is covered, then your tires still have more than 2/32nds of tread. Waiting any longer will make your vehicle too unsafe to drive in moderate to heavy rain conditions. Get the latest news and updates on Goodyear. refer to sticker on the driver's side door jam, if the recommended PSI is above the number on the gauge, add air until it reaches the recommended number. If your vehicle needs a realignment, its no big deal. This indicates at least 2/32 of an inch of tread depth remains on your tire. Typical tread depth gauges will measure in 32nds of an inch, or 25-26 in millimeters. Go behind the speeds. 9AM 9PM ET Daily. The penny test is an easy way to check the tread on your vehicles tires. Place your penny into a tread groove upside down. Check three or more spots around the tire with a penny to make sure the tread is wearing evenly. As a driver, youre responsible for the condition of the vehicle you are operating - whether it is your own, a friend or family members car, or a rental. Likewise, the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards require all tires to be manufactured with a visual indicator allowing drivers to know when the tread has worn down to 2/32nds of an inch or less. These recessed strips are called the tread channels or grooves, and its the lowest point of your tires circumference. Tire tread depth gauges are a fast and easy way to determine with certainty if your tires are still safe for use or if they need to be replaced. Get discounts on oil changes and other popular auto services. This will zero the tool and get the pin out of the way. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. To use this method, take a penny and hold it so the engraving of Abraham Lincolns head points downward. The most common of several methods for taking this measurement are: checking tread wear indicator bars, using the penny test, or measuring with a tire tread depth gauge. The correct version/option information is important for accurate results. 2/32 is the point at which you must replace tires in most states. Do I Need An Alignment After Replacing Tires? Can't find your version/option? Made with in Silicon Valley. Also, determine (c) the error involved in the first case. D. underinflated tires, Tread wear indicators Checking your tire treads with U.S. currency is about as easy as you can get. If Lincoln's head fits between the tread patterns, that means you still have more than 1/16 of an inch of the tire tread remaining. I checked this method and saved money, thanks. Non-directional tires have strips of tread around the circumference followed by shallow, recessed strips. r change column value based on another column; Enter the second number on your tire's sidewall as highlighted below. Instead, you can wait a little longer before the replacement is more necessary and optimizes the relationship between safety and money spent.Test Results ViaTireRack.com. The first 2 digits are the week and the last 2 digits are the year that your tire was manufactured. Howard specializes in full-service auto repair and tire replacement and care for domestic/imported vehicles and large trucks. The only downside is that youll be wasting time and money by replacing them so prematurely. These bars are chunks of rubber that span the grooves in the tread at different points around the circumference of the tire. Keep in mind, if youre at the wear bars, its already time to replace your tires. [15] This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Is It OK To Rotate Tires Every 10,000 Miles? You are leaving Goodyear.com, and are being directed to a website run by a company other than Goodyear. Your tread shouldn't be less than 1/16 of an inch in the grooves. C. tires are the only contacts to the road Heres a simple tire inspection you can perform in less than a minute. Do not drive in the rain if your tread is less than, In many countries and most US states, driving with a tire tread under. Yes, your tires are perfectly good to drive on at this depth. Whichever method you use, you need to check the tread depth at various points around the tires circumference. The quarter test is generally considered better if you want to avoid wearing your tread dangerously low. Step 2: Use the penny to check tread depth around the tire. ", "Great summary, technical info and pictures help, too.". If the tread touches Washington's head, you have at least 4/32 of an inch of tread remaining. If you can see the top of his head, then its time for new tires. This can indicate a need to have a wheel alignment performed, a suspension or steering repair diagnosed and completed, or a tire balance issue. Step 1: Place a penny between the tread blocks of your tire. If the tire tread depth is between his forehead and the top of his head, then your tires are ready to be replaced but it isnt an urgent issue.Penny Test Chart. While I specifically recommend a dial-style tread depth gauge, most people will find this to be a bit overkill. Learn how to read the codes on the car tire. If you can see the whole of Lincolns head, its time to replace your tires. into multiple places in tire groove between the tread, lowest to highest. How Often Should Tire Pressure Be Checked? wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This rule has been questioned throughout time, however, and AAA now suggests a different standard. Once you get down to below 4/32, you run a much higher risk of being unable to come to a stop quickly enough or hydroplaning and getting into a serious accident. Wear bars are small raised bumps located at several points around the circumference of your tires in the main tread grooves. Here is how you can measure your tires tread. Log in to MyTravelers, http://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa/Safety1nNum3ers/june2013/SafteyInNumbersJune2013.html, http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811617.pdf, http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/12/how-safe-are-worn-tires/index.htm, Older Car Maintenance in 5 Steps [Infographic], What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down [Video], 3-Second Rule for Safe Following Distance [Video], How to Drive Safely in Strong Wind and Rain [Video]. ", "The instructions were clear. 9AM 9PM ET Daily. Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires. You can use the last four digits of the Tire Identification Number (TIN) on the wall of your tire to help determine the age of your tire (e.g., 2613 means the tire was manufactured in the 26th week of 2013).3, But age is not the only factor. If you have a penny or a quarter, youre in luck. This can lead to dangerous driving conditions that can cause concerns when turning and cornering, potentially putting your safety at risk. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. If the bears paws touch the top of the tread, youve got a brand new tire essentially. If the top of his head is still buried, then youre good, for now. Let Goodyear tire professionals help you find out what your tire size is. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. When the tread wears down to become even with this level, the tire should be replaced. The Jeep Oil Change Indicator lets you know when and what service your car needs. Bodily injury and property damage liability coverage can cover injuries to others, damage to others property, and your legal expenses if you cause an accident. The best practice is to check the tread depth every 3,000 miles or once it reaches 4/32 of an inch deep. If you cant see the top of Lincolns head, you can continue to drive on your tires. Do Tires Need To Be Balanced When Rotated? Checking a tires tread depth is so easy that you could literally do it every single time you get into your car without really altering your life or disturbing any of your plans. Every time you lose 1/32 of tread, your car becomes slightly less capable of channeling water out from underneath the contact patch of your tires. Research source, Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. Finding your tire size is simple. Holding the penny this way, insert the penny so that Lincolns head goes into the groove of your tire. lake country school district; Find the most worn or lowest point on the tire. Some gauges are needle-shaped, and a part extends to measure the tread depth. Sometimes, you just need quality repair work performed by professionals you can trust like our partners, the certified mechanics at Goodyear Tire & Service. 4 June 2021. and see if the tire needs replacing. Visually check for anything that looks like it doesnt belong. Special financing available plus increased savings on select Goodyear tires. In general, a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch is about as low as you can go. (5,000 km) or once it reaches 4/32 inches deep. Four-tenths of a liter When the object is stuck in Hi there. If youre in need of a new set, buy your new tires online today. If your tread depth reads 2/32 inches of less, it's time to replace your tires. * When is the best time to check your tire pressure? The first number that appears is the tire tread depth measurement. For uniformity reasons, its best to replace all of your tires at the same time if you can. Learn about our payment options and choose the one thats right for you. One of the main functions of the grooves in tires is to push water or slush out from under it, or to bite into snow-packed roads, and shallow grooves do not do this job nearly as well as deeper ones. Just choose an area where youll be able to see the penny. They rise from the grooves and when theyre even with the tire, its time to replace your tires. Looks like you previously searched for tires for a: Would you like to see tires for this VEHICLE or start a new search? Research source, Variation: If you live in a rainy area, drive a vehicle with larger tires, or you want to be more proactive when it comes to replacing your tires, grab a quarter instead of a penny. If you can see the metal or fabric strands used to reinforce the inner part of your tire, you need to have your tires replaced immediately. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Wear bars eliminate the need to use a measuring device but offer even less precision and are really meant to let you know when youve reached the minimum amount of tread remaining. Not all tires fit every vehicle or tire size. Start entering the first number as highlighted below. How to measure tire tread depth Goodyear, How to check tire tread depth Progressive Insurance, In 42 states, 2/32 is the legal minimum tread depth, In 2 states, 1/32 is the legal minimum tread depth, In 6 states, there is no legal minimum tread depth. Hold it in the same way so that Washingtons face is facing you and hes upside-down. Different gauges will use different measurement increments, but youll want to see what the nearest 1/32 measurement is. c. 0.40 L In the United States, tire tread is typically measured in 32nds of an inch. Howards dedication to Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair has earned their team multiple awards and features including the 2021 Phoenix Magazine AZ State 48 Best of the Best!, the 2020 Best of Phoenix in Auto Repair, the 2013 Master SBD award, the 2013 National Top Shop award by Tire Review, the 2012 Diversity Champions Phx Business Journal, the 2009 BBB Ethics award, the 2008 Phx Chamber of Commerce Impact Award - Small Business of the Year, and the 2008 ASU Spirit of Enterprise award. Another easy option is using a quarter to do the same test. If your tread is 2/32 of an inch or less, its considered worn out and needs immediate replacement due to safety concerns. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Step 6: Note any inconsistent measurements between all four of your tires. Then they have to spend big bucks to replace them. This is when laws will force you to change your tires, and its well past the point when experts will suggest you replace your tires. He is now the owner of and main contributor to TireGrades.com. But as you can see in the video, even 2/32 of an inch of tire tread isnt a great idea. If there are fine cracks, its a normal part of a tire aging, but they should be monitored regularly to prevent encountering a dangerous driving situation. To check your tread, there are four quick and easy methods. All rights reserved. Always replace your tires at the same time. when you can see the top of Lincoln's head. Take a penny and place it in multiple grooves around your tires. Pay your bill, manage your tire financing and review your account. Saturday: 9:00 am 6:00 pm EST (Post Purchase Support Only). Witness the hard work, determination and drive it takes to rise above the competition. The grooves in your tire tread are what allow water to escape from underneath the contact patch of your tires. With the current reality of more employees working from home through the pandemic, is your business ready for all the implications? How Long Can You Drive With Low Tire Pressure? Tire pressure should be checked 3000-5,000 miles The oil should be changed every 10 inches When seated properly, the driver should be at least ____ inches from the steering wheel. Learn how to measure your car's tire tread depth with the tire tread penny test. Push the penny as far down as it goes, then inspect how much of Lincoln you can see. Monitor the tread using the penny test to make sure your tread doesn't get dangerously low. Steering Wheel Vibration After Tire Rotation. Tires are possibly the most important safety feature on your car. Find the auto and tire services you're looking for. Ensuring you have the proper pressure in your tires not only ensures you have a smooth ride and handling and optimum fuel economy but also provides the best traction possible. Step 5: Note any inconsistencies in tread depth on each tire. Try searching by your vehicle's tire size instead. Still have questions? Visual inspections should include looking across the entire width of the tire tread and around as much of the tire as possible. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Theres little attention given to your vehicle aside from making sure theres enough fuel in the tank to get you where you need to go. Can You Change Tire Size On The Same Rim? Valid on service and installation purchases of $50 or more using the Goodyear Credit Card.. If all of Washingtons head is visible, your tread depth is less than 4/32 of an inch, and you should consider replacing your tires within the next few thousand miles. C. scalloped tires Though it may not leak immediately, it is unsafe to operate your car with a tire separation. Keep Abe Lincolns hair pointing towards the center of the tire. With a quarter upside down and with Washingtons head facing you, place the quarter in between the tires tread. But as you can see in the video, even 2/32 of an inch of tire tread isn't a great . Why Is My Tire Pressure Light Still On After Filling Tires? If the crack is wide enough to fit the corner of a credit card in, the tire should be replaced immediately. However, some tire manufactures and tire shops now say that 4/32 of an inch is about as shallow as you want your treads. Organizing your tools and gear so everything is easily reachable will save precious minutes waiting for your handy-dandy child or four-legged helper to bring you the sandpaper or blowtorch.