How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Here at Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe, we like to keep our drivers safe on Matthews roads. One key step to driving safely is taking care of routine vehicle maintenance. One of the most common car parts to monitor and replace is your vehicle’s tires. Find yourself wondering, “How do I check tire tread wear?” This isn’t too complicated of a process, and the service team at Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe has put together the helpful guide below. You simply need a ruler or a penny and you’re all set. Read on to learn more about how to check tire tread depth, and if you need help finding new tires, visit Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe in Monroe for authentic tires you can trust on Waxhaw roads.

What’s a Safe Tire Tread Depth?

If you find yourself wondering, “How do I check tire tread depth?” you’ll first want to consider the type of tires you’re using. Tread depths vary from tire to tire, but typically, new tires have tread depths of around 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch. Heavy-duty tires, like winter tires or off-roading tires, tend to have deeper tread grooves for increased traction. So, how shallow is too shallow for your tire’s tread depth? Once your tire is down to about 2/32 of tread, the U.S. Department of Transportation recommends tire replacement. Proper tire tread depth is vital to staying safe on Monroe area roads.

Use a Penny to Check Tire Tread

How do I check tire tread wear at home? The process is easy! The most accurate and recommended method for measuring the tread depths on your tires is by using a ruler. However, if you don’t have a ruler or you’d like to check your tires while out and about in Weddington, you can use a penny for measurement as well. Once you have your penny handy, follow these simple steps:

1. Place the penny on the thread groove of the tire. Turn the penny so Lincoln’s head is upside down.
2. Check to see how much of Lincoln’s head is covered by the grooves.
3. If you are able to see all of Lincoln’s face, your tire treads are 2/32 of an inch or less and it is time for a tire replacement – schedule service with Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe.
4. Be sure to complete the penny test on several areas on each of your vehicle’s four tires for accuracy.

Keep Your Tires in Good Condition

Keep in mind, there are special tools designed to check your tire tread depth, such as a tire tread depth gauge. With this tool, it’s simple to tell when your tires are at 2/32 of tread or less. You should also complete the following routine maintenance tasks on a consistent basis:

• Check the wheel alignment
• Rotate your tires
• Check tire pressure (don’t forget about the spare tire)
• Inspect the tires for any visible signs of tire damage
• Check for tire rot or disintegration

Tire Service and More from Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe

Here at Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe, we’re proud to be Monroe’s local authorized dealer for new Chevrolet vehicles, but we also pride ourselves on our top-notch vehicle service center! With information on everything from new Chevrolet Silverado pricing to recommended maintenance, the team at Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe is here to help! Contact us with any questions today.