How to Check Your Tread Depth

How to Check Your Tread Depth

Tire tread (the grooves on your tires) provides the traction that keeps your car connected to the road. It holds your car on curves and prevents hydroplaning in wet conditions. Proper tread depth can be a literal lifesaver, so use this simple penny test to make sure your tire tread is in good shape.

Stuff You Need:

• A penny
• Four tires
• Nothing else, but lists are best in threes so just enjoy this extra bullet point

Step 1) Find the most worn groove in your tire. The grooves are the patterned ridges in your tires.

Step 2) Insert a penny into that groove. Make sure ol’ Honest Abe’s head is down and facing you.

Step 3) Check it out! If you can’t see the top of Abe’s head, you’re good to go! If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too worn and you should replace the tire! See the graphic below for reference.

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