How to Check Your Tire Tread

The tires on your Honda are in constant contact with the road, so it is important that you make sure that they remain in good condition. An easy way for Brick-area drivers to do this is to routinely check the tire tread depth. In this guide from the certified technicians in the Honda of Toms River Service Center, we’ll answer the question: “How do I check tire tread wear?’’ We offer some helpful tire care tips, as well!

What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

Brand new tires commonly have a tread depth of 10/32” to 11/32”. When the tread depth wears down to 2/32” or less, it’s time to replace them. Off-roading tires, winter tires, and some truck and SUV tires have deeper treads, so check your owner’s manual or refer to the tire manufacturer’s recommendations to determine when they need to be replaced.

Driving around Berkeley on bald or balding tires increases the chance that you’ll get a flat tire or blowout. The latter can be especially dangerous if you are traveling at high speeds on I-195.

The Penny Test

How do you check your tire tread depth? There are tire tread depth gauges available at most Manahawkin-area auto parts stores, but if you don’t have one handy, you can use the penny test. Here’s how to check your tire tread depth with a penny:

1. Insert a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you into a tire tread groove.
2. If Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread, then you have enough tread depth remaining.
3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, then your tire treads are 2/32” deep or less, and it’s time to get a new tire.

You should use the penny test on all four tires and in different locations on each tire to ensure that they are wearing evenly. If some tires are more worn than others and the tread depth isn’t too low, then you should have your tires rotated to even out tread wear.

Some new tires come with tread wear indicator bars that show when the tread has worn down. You’ll find these indicator bars at the bottom of the tread grooves in several locations on the tire. When the bars are flush with the tread it means that there is 2/32” or less tread remaining.

Get Expert Tire Care at Honda of Toms River

We answered the question: “How do I check tire tread wear?” Now, remember that our technicians are available to inspect your tires, as well as perform any needed tire care services such as tire rotation, balancing, or wheel alignment. All you have to do is schedule an appointment with us online, and we’ll take care of all your vehicle and tire maintenance needs. 

Make sure to check out our service specials and coupons to save on everything from oil changes to brake repair. Please feel free to contact our Service Center if you have any questions.