Learning how to check tire tread depth is quick, easy, and intuitive. Use a gauge, a penny, or just check the bars embedded in your tire! We’ve covered all three of these common methods below, so you can move forward with confidence. As always, reach out to the Jaguar Monmouth Authorized Service service team if you have any questions along the way.
What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?
When brand new, most tires have a tread depth of roughly 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch. (Winter tires, performance tires, and off-road tires can be exceptions.) Of course, what matters is not the tire’s depth at the time of your purchase, but rather the depth at which your tires need to be, well, retired. The U.S. Department of Transportation has set 2/32 (or 1/16) of an inch as the legal lower tread depth bound for passenger vehicles.
Although your tires may have been built to last a certain number of miles, learning how to check tire tread depth on your own is always better than relying on a guideline. If you need new tires, connect with our tire store.
How Do I Check Tire Tread Wear?
- With a Penny: Insert a standard U.S. penny into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down and out. If you can see his whole face, call our tire center! It’s time for a new set.
- With a Tread Gauge: Our parts center sells a dedicated tread gauge that can give you a more precise measurement. Just insert it into the tire to get your reading.
- With Built-In Tread Bars: Most newer tires come with tread wear bars built in. They rest at the very bottom of each tread groove and measure exactly 2/32 of an inch in height. If the top of the bar is flush with the top of the tread, get new tires as soon as possible.
No matter how you check tire tread wear, make sure to check each tire at multiple points, starting at points that look especially shallow.
Learning how to check tire tread wear isn’t just useful when you think you need a new set. It can also help you detect variances between your tires and catch very serious issues before they balloon into expensive repairs.
Why Should I Worry About My Tire Tread Depth?
Ensuring that your tires have sufficient tread is a surefire way to improve your acceleration, handling, and braking performance on Rumson and Colts Neck roads. You’ll be able to stop more quickly and respond more effectively to changes in road conditions. At the end of the day, your tires and your brakes are the most important safety features on your vehicle!
Maintain Your Tires at Jaguar Monmouth Authorized Service
For replacement tires, normal tire rotation, wheel alignment, and everything in between, you can rely on our service center. We’re easy to reach from anywhere near Eatontown or Red Bank, and we offer a wide range of service specials to make your next visit that much more enjoyable. Get in touch today to find out what we can do for you.
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