How to Check Tire Tread Depth: Why is it Important?

When it comes to routine car maintenance, one thing that you most likely ask yourself is, “Do my tires need to be changed, and how do I know when to change them?” One aspect of your tire’s health you need to keep track of is the tread depth. BMW of West St Louis is here to help guide you through the steps to measure your tread depth, and assist with any questions you may have, and replace or repair your tires near Ballwin for you!

The standard definition and description of tire tread depth is the top of the tire tread to the deepest part of the tire groove. Tire tread depth measurements are to the 32nd of an inch, with no exceptions. Having adequate tread depth gives your tires traction, which keeps you and your passengers safe. Unfortunately, the tread depth wears down as you drive, and it eventually reaches a point where you do not get adequate traction. When your tire tread depth gets too bare, you bring your car to us at BMW of West St Louis to get your vehicle up to spec with new tires.

How to Check Tire Tread Depth: Various Methods Used to Measure Depth

Check your tire tread depth, tire pressure, visible wear and tear, wheel alignment, and evident tire rot and disintegration to keep your tires in top maintenance condition. The last trouble you want to deal with is a tire blow-out on your commute from St Louis to Ladue!

The Lincoln Penny or Quarter Test

An easy way to check your tire tread depth is with a penny or quarter, both of which you most likely have on hand or can acquire easily. However, the quarter test is more popular with tire experts because it gives you more room to determine the amount of tread depth you have left in your tire tread.

The Lincoln Penny Test:

• Insert the Lincoln head penny into the tire groove with the penny upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, this indicates that you have less than 2/32 inches of tread depth left, and it is time to change your tires.

The Quarter Test:

• Insert a quarter into your tire groove with Washington’s head down and facing you. If the tire tread covers some portion of his head, you have more than 4/32 inches and are in good shape. However, if the tire groove is flush with the top of Washington’s head, you have approximately 4/32 inches left, and it is time to start planning to get new tires.

Tread Depth Gauges

Tread depth gauges are the most accurate measurement tools available at BMW of West St Louis or your local auto shop. The tread depth gauge is a probe that you stick into the shallowest tread groove on your tire. It will come with a diagram that will explain the following numbers to you (in inches and millimeters):

• 6/32″ or higher: Your tire’s tread depth is sufficient.
• 5/32″: If snow-covered roads are a concern, you should consider replacing your tires.
• 4/32″: If you frequently drive on wet roads, consider replacing your tires.
• 3/32″: It’s time to start shopping for new tires. Unfortunately, they are close to being worn out.
• 2/32″ or lower: Your tires are legally bald, and it’s time to replace them.

Tread Wear Bars

Most tires come with tread wear indicator bars in the tires. You will find them at the bottom of the tread grooves in multiple locations across the tire. If the bars are flush with the tire ribs surrounding them, it indicates that the tread depth has reached 2/32 of an inch. This low measurement means it is time to change your tires!

Let BMW of West St Louis Keep Your Tires in Excellent Shape for all Road Conditions!

Tire tread depth is measured in 1/32 inches. New tires typically have a tread depth of 10/32″ to 12/32″ and some off-road tires topping 15/32″.If your tires reach a depth of 2/32 inches, it is time to get new tires! Contact our service center for more information about your optimal tire tread depth, and bring your vehicle to us when it is time for new tires. While we are working on your new tires, take a minute to browse our inventory of new cars for your enjoyment and possibly a brand new car!