Several common “coin tests” can be used to quickly assess your tire tread depth:
- The Penny Test: This test helps determine if your tire tread depth is at or below the legal minimum of 2/32nds of an inch.
– Insert a penny into a tread groove with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing downwards.
– If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tread is worn and the tire should be replaced.
- The Quarter Test: This test is a good indicator if your tread depth is below 4/32nds of an inch, which many tire professionals recommend as a replacement threshold, especially for safety in wet or snowy conditions.
– Insert a quarter into a tread groove with George Washington’s head facing downwards.
– If you can see the top of Washington’s head, the tread is likely below 4/32nds and it’s time to consider replacing the tires.
- Uneven Wear: Always check multiple spots on each tire, especially the areas that appear most worn. Uneven wear can indicate alignment issues or other problems.
- Accuracy: While these tests provide a good estimation, for more precise measurement, especially in borderline cases, a tire tread depth gauge is recommended.
- Professional Opinion: Even if your tires pass the coin tests, consulting a tire professional for an evaluation, particularly if you have concerns, is a wise step.
How accurate is the penny test for tread?
Good point! While the penny tire test does deliver on what it promises – indicating whether tread has reached the legal limit – it may not be the best indicator of whether your tires are safe for the road. Tire performance can diminish significantly before your tread hits 2/32”.
What is the best coin to check tire tread?
Good point! 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 Lincoln’s head and the edge of the coin (see above for an explanation of how to do the test).