Tire tread depth is key to vehicle safety when it comes to wet and slippery roads. Old, worn out tires are a safety issue. While summer driving in California – on dry asphalt - may seem to indicate that your tires are OK, we highly recommend doing a tire check as the Fall rains roll in.
As tires wear out over time, their grip on the road lessens, and when the tread depth falls below acceptable minimum, you’re much more likely to skid or hydroplane on wet and slippery roads. Checking tire tread depth is a simple but important task that can make a big difference in your driving experience.
How To Check Tire Tread Depth?
No time to check your tire tread depth? Don't worry! Checking your tire tread depth doesn’t take long, and it’s one of the easiest ways to increase your vehicle’s safety. Tread depth affects tire traction, stability, and braking power, all of which are important for a smooth, safe drive. At Toole’s Garage in San Carlos we offer free tire tread check. However, if you don’t have time to come by, here is a simple test that can be done at home – the Penny Test.
In the US, tire tread depth is measured in 32nds of an inch. New tires start with about 10/32” to 11/32” tread, and the Department of Transportation recommends replacing tires when they get to 2/32"—the minimum legal limit in most states, including California.
The penny test is a simple way to see if your tires are at the end of their life.
- Insert a penny into the tread groove so that Lincoln’s head is pointing down.
- If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head fully exposed, your tread has worn down to 2/32” or less, and it’s time for new tires.
- Rotate the penny test around different areas of each tire, as tread can wear unevenly. Pay attention to any sections that look more worn than others. Uneven wear can mean alignment issues, improper inflation, or suspension problems.
Another way to check your tires is to look for tread wear indicator bars. Tread wear indicator bars are built into most modern tires. These are small raised bars between the main tread grooves at 2/32” deep—the minimum in California and other US states. To check your tread depth with these bars:
- Look at the tread surface of your tire. You’ll see small horizontal bars between the tread ribs.
- When the tread is even with the bars, it’s time to replace your tires.
These bars are a quick visual reminder to check your tread wear. If you see your tread is at or near these bars, get your tires replaced soon as soon as possible, especially when facing inclement weather.
At Toole’s Garage in San Carlos we offer broad range of new tires, including Continental, Michelin, and Bridgestone tires, these three being most popular. But we also offer a wide variety of brands to suite your budget and your driving style. So if a tire tread test tells you it’s time for new tires, or you want us to perform the tire tread check using professional equipment, call our San Carlos auto care facility. Our friendly service advisors will answer your questions and can make an appointment at the same time. We will match the right tires to your car and driving conditions. Let our knowledgeable team ensure your tires are safe and ready for the winter rains, giving you peace of mind everywhere you drive.