You can use a US penny or a quarter to get a quick estimate of your tire tread depth:
- Penny Test (for 2/32″ tread depth):
– Insert a penny into the tire tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down, facing you.
– If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is likely less than 2/32″ and it’s time to replace your tires.
– If the tread covers any part of Lincoln’s head, you have at least 2/32″ of tread remaining.
- Quarter Test (for 4/32″ tread depth):
– Insert a quarter into the tire tread groove with Washington’s head facing downward.
– If the tread touches Washington’s head, you have at least 4/32″ of tread remaining.
– If the tread doesn’t touch Washington’s head, your tread depth is below 4/32″, and it’s recommended to consider replacing your tires for optimal safety and performance, especially in wet or snowy conditions.
- Uneven Wear: Always check your tires in multiple spots as wear can be uneven.
- Legal Minimum: Most states consider 2/32″ as the minimum legal tread depth.
- Safety Recommendation: For better safety, especially in wet or snowy conditions, consider replacing tires when they reach 4/32″ tread depth.
- Tread Wear Indicators: Many tires have built-in tread wear indicator bars set at 2/32″. If these bars become flush with the tread, it’s time for replacement.
- Professional Assessment: For a more precise measurement and professional advice, consider having your tires inspected by a qualified tire and auto mechanic. You can also purchase a dedicated tread depth gauge for more accurate measurements.
How to check tire tread with 25 cents?
Great question! CHECK YOUR TIRE TREAD Here’s how to check your tread with a Canadian quarter: Insert a 25-cent coin in one of the grooves with the caribou facing down. If you see the tip of its nose, it means the tread depth is less tahn 6/32”, so the tire probably won’t last all winter, or 10,000 km.