How To Check Tire Tread Depth

Have you ever wondered, “How do I check tire tread wear?” You’re not alone! Our team here at Ray Brandt Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT is frequently asked about auto maintenance. The good news is that all you need is a ruler or penny! Learn how to check tire tread depth at home in Gretna! Learn more below, and be sure to contact us if you have any questions!

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

New tires have treads that are around 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch) deep. Certain specialty tires like winter tires, off-road tires, and some truck or SUV tires may use even deeper tread grooves.

If your tire treads are 2/32 of an inch or less, it’s time to replace your tires according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Adequate tire tread depth is a must for safe driving in Marrero, and proper tire care can even extend to life of your tires. Be sure to rotate your tires frequently!

The Penny Test

While a ruler is an accurate way to check tire tread depth, you can actually use a penny to measure tread depth! Follow these steps to learn how to check the tread depth remaining on your tires.

1. Insert a penny with Lincoln’s head face first into your tire tread.
2. Check to see if Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s face, that means your tire treads are 2/32 inches deep or less and it’s time to replace them.
4. Repeat this process on all four tires and in multiple locations on each tire.

More Ways to Check Tire Tread

There are special tools you can get from a New Orleans auto parts store to check your tires, such as a tire tread depth gauge. There are also tread wear bars found on certain tires that have a visible mark which indicates the 2/32 inch mark. While you are checking your tire tread depth, some more things inspect include:

• Tire pressure
• Any visible tire damage
• Tire rot or disintegration
• Wheel alignment

Maintain Your Tires at Ray Brandt Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT

When you take your vehicle to our local service center, our factory certified technicians will be glad to check your tire tread. We would also be happy to teach you how to check tire tread depth and how to change the battery in a Jeep key fob! Also, be sure to check our parts and service specials to save even more!

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