It is common to use a penny or a quarter to check your tire tread depth.
Here’s how these tests work:
- Penny Test: Insert a penny into the tire tread groove with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing downwards. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tread depth is likely below 2/32nds of an inch and it’s time to consider replacing your tires.
- Quarter Test: Insert a quarter into the tire tread groove with George Washington’s head facing downwards. If the tread touches Washington’s head, you have at least 4/32nds of an inch of tread remaining. If you can see the top of Washington’s head, your tires have worn below 4/32nds of an inch, and it’s recommended to consider replacing your tires for better safety and performance, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
Note: While the penny test indicates the minimum legal tread depth in many places, a tread depth of 4/32nds of an inch is often recommended for optimal safety and performance, particularly in wet or winter conditions. It’s also a good idea to check different areas of each tire, as treadwear can be uneven. You can also use a dedicated tread depth gauge for a more precise measurement.
What is the best coin to measure tire tread?
I can help with that. 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).
What coin do I use to check my tires?
Good point! 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.
What coin is used for tire tread?
Take a penny and place it with Lincoln’s head upside down between two ribs on your tire. If part of the head is covered, your tires are still in good shape. If you can see his entire head, your tread is worn to 2⁄32 inch or less and it’s time for new tires.
Can I use a quarter to check tire tread?
Thanks for asking. 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.