Do you need new tires? Are you unsure? There is an extremely simple way to check your tire tread depth at home with no special tools! All you need is a quarter and a penny to get started.
Before using the coin, you check your tires for the “wear indicators” as seen in the video above. Look for these rubber notches between the tread of your tires. They are raised to indicate tire tread depth of 2/32 of an inch. At this point, your tires are completely worn to an unsafe level. Once the indicator is flush with the tread, that means it’s time to replace your tires right away. If your tires do not have these indicators, or if you want to be proactive and get an idea of how much tread you have left before it’s too late, it’s time to use your coins.
Using Coins to Check Tire Tread Depth
First, grab your quarter. Insert it in the space between your tire tread, with George Washington’s head facing down. If your tread surpasses the top his head, you are above 4/32 of an inch and are in good shape. Once the tread comes flush with the top of Washington’s head, that means you are at 4/32 of an inch. While still safe, it’s time to start planning ahead. Depending on how much you drive and on what terrain, you’ll need to replace your tires soon.
If you find that your tread is not even touching Washington’s head, you can grab your penny. Insert the penny in the same way, with Lincoln’s head facing down. When your tread is flush with the top of Lincoln’s head that means you are at 2/32 of an inch. As with the wear indicator, this means it’s time to replace your tires. Regardless of season, low tread is unsafe, reducing traction, increasing stopping distance and increasing chances of getting a flat.
Other Considerations
Make sure you check your tread on all four tires and in more than one spot. If you find that the center of your tires is wearing more than the outer edges, your tire is likely over inflated. On the other hand, if the edges are wearing more quickly than the center, your tires are likely under inflated. When certain tires are wear more quickly than others, you might need a tire rotation or alignment. In this case, we’d be happy to help you figure out what needs done to ensure even wear to not only increase the lifespan of your tires, but also keep you driving safely!
If you do need new tires, take advantage of our $70 rebate on a set of four eligible tires though July 31, 2020! Start shopping new tires here.