How to Check Tire Tread Depth
Driving on bald or worn-out tires can make driving unsafe on Rockville roads, so it’s important to be mindful of the depth of your tire treads. Rather than having to deal with changing a flat tire, take preventative measures and learn how to monitor tire tread depth courtesy of Manchester Mazda!
Recommended Tread Depth
Tread depth is measured in 32nds of an inch. Tread depth on new tires typically measures 10/32 inches or 11/32 inches (about a third of an inch), while trucks, SUVs, or winter tires may have deeper treads. When tires reach 2/32 inches, the U.S. Department of Transportation recommends replacing them.
The Penny Test
To check whether you’ve hit the 2/32-inch mark, use the penny test as follows:
- Place a penny in a tire tread groove with Lincoln’s head face first in the groove.
- Check if Lincoln’s face on the penny disappears between the grooves.
- If it does, your tread is still above 2/32 inches. If you can see all of Lincoln’s face, it’s time to replace your tire.
- Make sure to repeat with all tires and in various places on each tire.
Other Methods
There are a few other ways for drivers in Bolton to check tire tread depth, including:
- Using a tread depth gauge
- Tread wear indicator bars
Schedule Service with Manchester Mazda!
Learn more about how to give your Mazda tire treads a longer life is by maintaining recommended tire pressure, or connect with the Service Department at Manchester Mazda for any and all tire service! Learn why to choose our service department while our staff can also help confirm if your battery is dying and give you more maintenance tips—like how to check your transmission fluid—before you get back on the road.
Want to learn more about Mazda service? Be sure to read up on our auto body shop today!
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