Tire tread depth is crucial for safety, especially in wet or snowy conditions. You can easily check your tire’s tread depth at home using coins.
This test helps determine if your tire tread depth is at least 2/32 of an inch, which is the legal minimum in most states.
To perform the test, insert a U.S. penny into a tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is 2/32nds of an inch or less and needs replacing. If his head is partially or fully covered, the tread is sufficient for now. Check multiple spots on each tire.
Using a quarter provides a more proactive check, as performance can decrease before reaching the legal limit. This test indicates if your tread is at least 4/32 of an inch. To perform the quarter test, insert a U.S. quarter into a tread groove with Washington’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is below 4/32nds of an inch and replacement should be considered soon, especially in wet conditions. If his head is covered, you have at least 4/32nds of an inch of tread.
- Tire performance can be reduced in wet weather even if they pass the penny test; replacing tires at 4/32″ is recommended for optimal safety.
- Uneven wear may indicate inflation or alignment issues and should be inspected by a professional.
- While coins offer a quick check, a tread depth gauge is more accurate.
- Tires also have wear bars that become flush with the tread at 2/32″, indicating it’s time for replacement.
- Check your tires monthly and before long trips.
- Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific tire replacement recommendations, including tire age.
What is the coin method for tires?
Great question! Head is 432. So what you want to do is take the quarter. Insert it into the tread of the tire. Head down. And see where your tread hits now you can see that these tires have pretty good tread.
How accurate is the penny test for tire tread?
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 do the penny method on tires?
Great question! The answer could be in your pocket. Take a penny and place it into several tread grooves across your tire. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head it’s time to start tire shopping.
What is the best coin to show tire tread?
The test is conducted by sticking a penny head down in a tire tread; if you see all of Lincoln’s head, then you should change the tires. Tire Rack, which studies and sells tires, says that the penny test is outdated and that drivers should use a quarter instead.