How to Check Tire Tread Depth

If your tires have undergone some wear and tear, you’re probably wondering when you need to replace them. So, how do you check tire tread wear? Luckily, the materials needed can be found right in your home: a ruler or a penny. Read this guide by Jaguar Manhattan Certified Pre-Owned & Service on how to measure tread depth, and reach out to us if you have any questions regarding tire tread health or general tire care.

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

If you’ve recently purchased a Jaguar, then your tire tread depth will be about 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch). Winter tires or tires designed for rugged activities like off-roading, and some truck and SUV tires may have even deeper tread depth.

How do you know when it’s time to replace your tires? According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, your tires need to be replaced when the tire tread measurement depth is 2/32 of an inch. Many Fort Lee drivers want to know why their tire tread health is so important. Proper tire tread depth is not only crucial to safe driving, but it also helps extend the life of your tires.

How to Check Your Tire Tread Depth: The Penny Test

While a ruler is the most accurate way to check your tire tread depth, a penny will suffice! The design on the U.S. penny makes it the perfect, easy-to-access tool to measure your tire wear. Follow the steps below to check the tire tread depth on your tires:

1. Insert a 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, 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.

How to Check Your Tire Tread Depth: Additional Methods

In addition to the penny test, there are other available methods Englewood drivers can use to check tire tread depth:

• Tread Depth Gauge: You’ll need to purchase a tread depth gauge, but it’s an affordable tool that’s always convenient to have on hand. All you have to do is insert the probe into the shallowest tread groove, then press the top bar of the gauge flat against the tire to see the tread wear rating.

• Tread Wear Bars: Most tires have tread wear indicator bars built into them, and you’ll find them at the bottom of the tread grooves in multiple locations across the tire. If the bars are flush with the tire ribs that surround them, this means that the tread depth has reached 2/32 of an inch.

Rely on Jaguar Manhattan Certified Pre-Owned & Service for Tire Care

Have any additional questions about your specific tire tread wear measurement? When you bring your vehicle to our service department for regular maintenance, our expert technicians will inspect your tires for any issues or signs of wear. Simply schedule an appointment online and we’ll get you back on The Bronx roads in no time! Ready to learn more about DIY car care? Learn how to clean leather car seats like a professional with our team.