How to Check Tire Tread Depth in Four Steps

Some drivers don’t give too much thought to their tires, but we really can’t overstate the importance of these crucial safety features. Scheduling regular tire rotation and wheel alignment is a great start, but every Edgewater-area driver should also understand how to check tire tread depth at home! Here’s how to get the job done right, even if you don’t have a tread gauge or a ruler on hand.

Know Your Recommended Tire Tread Depth

The new tires included with your Land Rover will generally have a starting tread depth of 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch. The replacement tires you’ll pick up from our Land Rover tire store are usually no different! Specialized tires, including winter tires and off-road tires, may have deeper treads.

It’s time to replace your tires when the depth of your treads fall to 2/32 (1/16) of an inch. In most cases, it will take your tires between five and six years to reach this point. Some tires will have a mark that tells you when it’s time for a change.

Checking Tire Tread Depth with a Penny

If you’re used to working with specialized tools and equipment, you might be perplexed when we say that you don’t really need much of anything on hand. The skeptic asks: “How do I check tire tread wear with a penny?” and we here at Land Rover Annapolis are happy to provide the answer:

1. Take a penny and, with Lincoln’s head facing out towards you and downwards, insert it into the tread.
2. If you can see all of Lincoln’s face when the penny is in the tread, tread carefully! It’s time to pick up a new tire.
3. Make sure to move the penny around and check each tire at multiple locations.
4. Significant differences between tires indicate the need for rotation, even if you have more than 2/32 of depth remaining.

Regular tread depth checks are important, but they’re not the only item that you should add to your care regimen! Learn how often to change your oil today.

Keep a Close Eye on Your Tires

At-home tire care starts, but doesn’t stop, with learning how to check tire tread wear. While you’re getting a good look at your tires, remember to check for the other common signs of deterioration and wear:

• While you’re up close and personal with your tires, remember to check your tire pressure too.
• Treads aren’t the only part of your tires that can deteriorate! Check for tire rot and deterioration of the wall as well.
• If your tire treads are not worn down, but you’re noticing issues with handling, your wheel alignment may be to blame. Have a service expert take a look.

Land Rover Annapolis is Your Source for Tire Service

Ready for your next tire rotation? Our team can help teach you how many miles tires last, so you can have confidence on the road. Think you may need a new set of tires already? Don’t waste time with second-hand tire stores. Drive to our service center from Crofton or Severna Park, and let us get the job done right.

We even offer a range of service specials and parts coupons, so you can be sure that your next visit will be affordable.