How to Measure Tire Tread
In 2017, 738 people died in car accidents that were caused by tire-related issues. Something as simple as checking your tires for signs of worn tread can save your life.
Continue reading to learn how to measure the tire tread depth on your truck’s tires.
What Is Tire Tread?
A tire’s tread is the rubber part of the tire that comes in contact with the road. The tread allows a vehicle to have traction on a road.
The tire tread depth is the distance from the outside of the tread to the deepest groove on the inside. The tire tread depth on a new tire usually measures between 10/32″ and 11/32″ of an inch.
Measuring the depth of your tire tread will tell you when it is time to replace your tires.
How to Measure Tire Tread Depth
It is important to check the tread on your tires on a routine basis to figure out when you need new tires. There are a few different ways to determine the depth of a tire’s tread.
Tire Tread Gauge
A tire tread gauge is a device used to measure tire tread depth to the nearest 32nd. The device is placed between the tread into the deepest part of the tire and measured.
Use the device in many places around the tire to make sure there aren’t any patches that are worn down.
Penny/Quarter Trick
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have a tire tread gauge, you can use a penny or a quarter to measure your tire’s tread depth.
The idea of this trick is to hold the coin face up and set it with the president’s head pointed into the tread of the tire.
In a tire that has a good amount of tread left, part of the face will be covered. If none of the head is covered by the tread of the tire, then it is time for a new set of tires.
Like with the tire tread gauge, you want to check many places around the tire to make sure there aren’t areas that are more worn out.
When to Replace Your Tires
When your tires get to 2/32″, it considered worn out and needs to be replaced. This might seem like the optimal time to order your next set, but driving with bald tires is dangerous. You want to stay ahead of this. The sooner you have new tires on your truck, the safe you will be when you are driving.
If you think your tires might be balding, it’s time to order their replacement set. Check out our selection of tires for your next replacement set.
Where to Go From Here
If you’ve checked your tire tread depth and found that you need a new set of tires, but you don’t know where to start, we can help. Our wheel experts can help you find the right tires for your vehicle.
Check Us out
Check out our page on wheels for more information on tires and the services that we offer.
