How to Check Tire Tread Depth

 

Mazda of New Rochelle New Rochelle NY

Drivers in Bronx often ask “how do I check tire tread wear?” Thankfully, it’s not that difficult to figure out how to check tire tread depth. If you’ve got a ruler, it’s as easy as sticking it into your tire tread and if you don’t have a ruler, a simple United States penny can help you figure things out. Why check your tire’s tread? Because tires that are ready to roll save on both fuel economy and maintenance costs down the line. Keep your car in the safest possible position by trusting it with the service team at Mazda of New Rochelle and learn more about how to check your tire tread below.

What’s a Normal Tire Tread Depth?

When you purchase a new set of tires for your Manhattan vehicle, they’ll typically have a tread depth of about 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (roughly ⅓ inch). Winter tires and tires that are designed for off-roading will generally have deeper tread grooves. How do you know if it’s time to replace your tires? If you hit 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace them. Maintaining the proper tread depth is critical in keeping your drives safe as you head out on local roads.

How to Check Your Tire Tread Depth: The Penny Test

How to check the tire tread of your vehicle isn’t difficult, and there are some common ways to check your tread without bringing in your vehicle for an inspection. While a ruler is the most accurate way to check your tire tread depth in White Plains, a penny will do just fine. The design on the U.S. penny makes it a perfect and convenient tool for measuring wear on your tires. Here’s how to check tire tread depth if all you’ve got is a penny.

  1. Insert the penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
  2. Check if Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
  3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, 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.

Is the penny test for tires accurate? Generally, yes, it’s a good indicator of your tire’s tread. But if you’re looking for the most specific information for your specific make or model, it’s always best to check your owner’s manual for specific tire information.

Get Quality Tire Service at Mazda of New Rochelle

If you’ve measured your tire tread depth and find that it’s time for a replacement, come on over to the Mazda of New Rochelle tire center today. We’ll take a look at them, help you order new tires, and install them, too. Our OEM parts team is ready to serve you! Contact us today with any questions you may have about your tires.