How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Interested in learning how to check tire tread wear? Our service team at Mandal Buick GMC in Diberville can help. All you’ll need is a ruler or a penny. With these, you can easily check your tire tread depth at home. Learn more about how to check tire tread depth and more below with our team today.

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

Brand new tires have a tread depth of about 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch). Winter tires and off-roading tires, as well as larger tires made for trucks or SUVs, may have even deeper tread grooves.

At 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace your tires according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Proper tire tread depth is essential to safe driving in Biloxi, and proper tire care can even extend the life of your tires.

The Penny Test

Though a ruler is the most accurate way to measure tire tread depth, if you can’t find a ruler or you’re on a trip outside of Gulfport, you can always use a penny. The design on the U.S. penny makes it the perfect tool to measure your tire wear. Here’s how you can use a penny to check your tire tread:

1. Insert a penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
2. Observe if Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
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.

How Do I Check Tire Tread Wear Using Other Methods?

Today, many people use their credit or debit card more often than cash. This means it’s likely you may not have a penny on hand to use. Here are a few alternative ways to help you check your tread depth:

• Tread Depth Gauge: One way to check your tire tread wear without a penny is with a tread depth gauge. You would need to purchase it, but many Ocean Springs car owners will find it to be an affordable and worthwhile investment. Simply insert the probe into the shallowest tread groove, then press the top bar of the gauge flat against the tire to see the tread wear rating.

• Tread Wear Bars: Most tires come with tread wear indicator bars built into them. You’ll find them 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.

Maintain Your Tires at Mandal Buick GMC

In need of a maintenance check or ready to have your tires rotated? Contact our service team to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you keep your vehicle running smoothly in Diberville for years to come. Also, be sure to check out our service specials to save more on the services your vehicle needs.