Tire Tread Depth Test

Q: How long do tires last and how can I tell when I need new ones?

A: New tires commonly last between 40,000 and 60,000 miles. This depends on the type of vehicle you drive, how often the tires are rotated, tire quality, and driving habits. If you ever see steel belts coming out of the tires replace them immediately. Tires are worn out when the tread is worn down to 2/32nds (1/16th) of an inch. Tire wear bar indicators are placed in the tread to identify this depth. Tire stores will use a tread depth gauge to measure the amount of tread left on a tire. You can also use a penny to make sure your tires are OK. Turn the penny so Lincoln’s head is closest to the tire. Place the penny, head first, in between one of the tread grooves. If you can see the very top of Lincoln’s head, your tire is worn out.