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The typical new tire used on automobiles is measured with 10/32” to 11/32” of tread depth. With winter/snow and light truck tires the tread is deeper because this depends on the tire’s tread type, which is either the Highway Rib, Highway All-Season, Off-Road All-Terrain or Off-Road Maximum Traction.
A simple way to check your tire tread depth is by using a tread depth gauge. You can find tire tread depth gauges at your local auto parts store. There are many models available, but an inexpensive simple graduated probe gauge will work just fine.
There are four quick and easy methods of how to find your tire’s tread depth. Watch the video below and learn how a penny, a quarter, a tread depth gauge, or even an indicator built into your tire’s tread can help you understand when it’s time to replace your tires.
A good tire tread depth is 5/32″ or greater. Tires with 4/32″ or less depth are recommended to be replaced. Once tires reach 2/32″ they are considered bald must be replaced for your safety. Stopping distance on wet roads increases as tread depth decreases. The risk of hydroplaning also increases.
The penny test is a simple and easy method to check the tread depth of your tires to determine if your tires need to be replaced or if they are still safe to drive on. The test is done by inserting a penny between the tread blocks.
What is the legal tire limit of the tread depth? The minimum tread depth is 2/32 (1.6 mm). This means that it is imperative to change your tires once this limit has been reached to avoid compromising your safety and breaking the law.
To ensure optimal safety in wet, snowy, or slushy conditions, summer tires should have a tread depth of at least 3mm (~ 4/32 inches), and winter or all-season tires should have a tread depth of at least 4mm (5/32 inches).
They can evaluate the damage and safety of your tires and help you find tire replacements if needed. Learn more about tire tread depth, including the ideal tread void for your vehicle and driving conditions with Firestone Complete Auto Care.
You should monitor your tire tread depth closely once it reaches 4/32 inch deep. If you want to check it yourself, here's how to assess your tread depth:
Learning how to check tread depth is the best way to tell if your tires are safe for another season or if they’re almost ready to retire. Tires that don’t have enough tread depth put you at greater risk of hydroplaning, punctures and reduced traction.