Easy Way to Check Your Tire Tread
Maintaining your vehicle doesn’t always require a toolbox full of expensive equipment. At Third Coast Auto Group, we want to ensure our Austin neighbors stay safe during those sudden Hill Country rainstorms. One of the best ways to prepare is by learning an Easy Way to Check Your Tire Tread right in your own driveway.
Why Tread Depth Matters
Your tire tread is what allows your vehicle to grip the road and channel water away from the tire’s surface. As the rubber wears down, your stopping distance increases, and your risk of hydroplaning rises. Checking your tires regularly is a simple habit that can prevent accidents before they happen.
The Penny Test
As shown in our embedded video, the most famous Easy Way to Check Your Tire Tread involves nothing more than a common penny. Here is how you do it:
- Insert the Penny: Take a penny and hold it so you are looking at Abraham Lincoln’s head.
- Check the Depth: Insert the penny into one of the grooves of your tire with Lincoln’s head pointing down toward the center of the wheel.
- Evaluate the Result: If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is shallow (likely at or below 2/32 of an inch), and it is time to replace your tires. If his head is partially covered, you still have some life left in them.
Consistency is Key
Don’t just check one spot! Make sure to test multiple grooves and all four tires. If you notice that one side of the tire is more worn than the other, you may also need an alignment.
At Third Coast Auto Group, we are committed to providing reliable transportation for the Austin community. If your tires aren’t passing the test, come see us at one of our locations to explore our inventory of well-maintained vehicles.
Read more: How to Tell When You Need to Get Your Brakes Replaced
