Tire Tread Depth – Safety First!

The only surface on your car that connects you to the road is your tires.  Especially with the winter weather, sufficient tire tread is essential to keep your car riding the road safely.  Tire tread depth should be greater than 2/32”.  An easy way to measure tire tread depth is to place a penny into several tread grooves across the tire, with Lincoln’s head down.  If a part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread, you have greater than 2/32” tread depth.  If you measure with a quarter, and a part of Washington’s head is covered, you have more than 4/32” of tread depth remaining.  Be sure and measure across different areas of the tire, and note whether the tread depth measures evenly.  If they are not wearing evenly, check for incorrect tire pressure or improper alignment as the possible culprits (alignment will have to be checked with an ASE certified mechanic at a qualified shop).  As tires wear, it is important to realize that the tire’s ability to properly perform in rain and snow will be reduced.   Tire manufacturers also place indicators that are molded into their tread design called “wear bars” to warn drivers when the tread depth is too worn.  Next time you park your car, turn your tires outward and examine your tire tread.  Now is the time to be sure you have safe tires for the upcoming winter weather!