You can use a coin to quickly and easily check the tread depth of your car’s tires and determine if it’s time for new tires.
Here’s how to perform the coin tests:
- Why it matters: 2/32nds of an inch is generally considered the minimum safe tread depth and is the legal limit in many areas. Driving with tread below this depth can significantly reduce traction, especially on wet roads, and increase the risk of hydroplaning and accidents.
- How to do it: Insert a penny into the tire tread groove with Abraham Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you.
- Interpretation:
– If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head , your tread is 2/32nds of an inch or less and it’s time to replace your tires.
– If Lincoln’s head is covered , your tires have more than 2/32nds of an inch of tread left.
- Why it matters: Tire safety and performance can start to diminish significantly before the tread reaches the legal minimum of 2/32″, particularly in wet or snowy conditions. Many experts recommend replacing tires when the tread is worn to 4/32″ or less for optimal safety.
- How to do it: Insert a quarter into the tread groove with George Washington’s head facing downward.
- Interpretation:
– If you can see the top of Washington’s head , your tire’s tread has worn below 4/32nds of an inch, and you should consider replacing your tires soon, especially if you experience frequent rain or snow.
– If Washington’s head is covered , your tread is at least 4/32nds of an inch, and your tires still have a good amount of life left.
- Check multiple spots on each tire: Tire wear can be uneven, so repeat the coin test in several locations around each tire, paying attention to the most worn areas.
- Professional inspection: While coin tests are a quick and easy way to estimate tread depth, they are not as precise as a professional inspection using a tread depth gauge. If you have any doubts about your tire’s condition, have them inspected by a qualified mechanic.
- Uneven wear: Uneven tread wear can indicate underlying issues like improper inflation, misalignment, or suspension problems. If you notice uneven wear, have your vehicle inspected by a technician.
- Frequency: It’s recommended to check your tire tread at least once a month and before any long journeys.
By regularly checking your tire tread depth, you can help ensure your safety on the road and extend the life of your tires.
How do you test your tires with a coin?
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.
Is the penny test accurate?
The penny test provides a reliable, quick estimate of tread depth, though it is not as precise as professional measurements. How often should I perform the penny test? It is recommended to check your tire tread using the penny test at least once a month and before long journeys.
How to check tire tread with 25 cents?
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.