Checking your tire tread depth with a coin is a simple and effective way to quickly assess their condition. Here’s how to do it using both the penny and quarter tests:
- Find a U.S. penny and insert it into a major tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing down into the tread.
- Look at the penny from the side. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is at or below 2/32″ and your tires need to be replaced soon.
- If the top of Lincoln’s head is partially or fully covered by the tread, your tread depth is above 2/32″, which is the minimum legal limit in many states.
- For an added safety measure, especially in wet or snowy conditions, you can also use the quarter test.
- Insert a U.S. quarter into a major tread groove with Washington’s head facing down into the tread.
- If you can see the top of Washington’s head, your tread depth is at or below 4/32″ and it’s time to start planning for new tires.
- Check multiple spots: Tire wear can be uneven, so repeat the tests at several locations around each tire to get an accurate assessment.
- Don’t wait too long: While 2/32″ is the legal minimum, tire performance can diminish before reaching this point, particularly in wet weather. Many experts recommend replacing tires when they reach 4/32″ of tread depth.
- Look for uneven wear: If you notice significantly different tread depths in different areas, it could indicate alignment problems, improper inflation, or other issues requiring professional inspection.
- Consider professional inspection: While coin tests offer a quick estimate, a professional inspection by a tire shop can provide a more accurate measurement and diagnose any underlying issues.
Note: Driving with severely worn tires can compromise safety, increasing stopping distances and reducing traction, especially in adverse weather conditions.
How accurate is the penny test for tire tread?
From my experience, The test involves placing a penny into a tread groove and checking whether Lincoln’s head is visible. How accurate is the penny test for tire tread depth? The penny test provides a reliable, quick estimate of tread depth, though it is not as precise as professional measurements.
How to tell if tire tread is good with a coin?
From my experience, Down then stick your penny into multiple points of the tread across your tire to check for wear. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s. Head it’s time to get your tires checked by a professional.
Can I use a quarter to check tire tread?
Great question! Water if it’s wet. Outside. So the distance between George Washington’s head and the edge of a quarter happens to be about 432 of an inch. You take George insert his head downward into the groove.