How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Why is tire tread depth important? During your Fayetteville and Springdale drives, your tire treads grip the road to help you maintain traction. However, your tire tread depth will gradually wear down over time, decreasing your overall grip on Bentonville roads. After a certain point, your low tire tread depth will jeopardize the safety of you, your passengers, and your fellow drivers.

Not sure how to check tire tread depth on your own Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Wagoneer vehicle? Not to worry! Find out how to measure tire tread depth using the tire tread penny test with the service experts at Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Of Northwest Arkansas below! Then, if you discover that you need more extensive maintenance for your car, truck, or SUV, feel free to schedule a service appointment at our Siloam Springs Auto Center today!

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

Before we dive into how to measure tire tread depth, you’ll want to know what the preferred measurements are. A new set of tires typically has a tread depth of about 10/32 to 11/32 of an inch (or about a third of an inch). However, off-road tires, winter tires, and some truck tires have deeper tread grooves. The U.S. Department of Transportation suggests replacing your tires when their tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch. Finding out how to check tire tread depth is an essential part of Prairie Grove area driving.

The Tire Tread Penny Test

The best way to accurately measure tire tread depth is by using a ruler. However, a penny will work as a substitute. The design of a U.S. penny makes it great for measuring tire wear. Just follow the instructions outlined below to learn how to check tire tread depth on your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Wagoneer vehicle in a pinch:

1. Insert the Coin – Insert the penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
2. Is Lincoln’s Head Covered? – Check if Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
3. Check to See If Tire Tread Depth is 2/32 Inches – 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 for Each Tire – Repeat this process on all four tires and in multiple locations on each tire.

Get Your Tires Serviced at Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Of Northwest Arkansas Today!

Have a better understanding of how to check tire tread depth on your car, truck, van, or SUV? If not, we’re always available at Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Of Northwest Arkansas to provide further clarification. Reach out to us online for more information, updates on our current maintenance prices, or which of our service specials are currently in rotation!