Maintaining proper tire tread depth is crucial for your safety on the road. At Big Chief Tire, our car maintenance experts are here to teach you the significance of tire tread, how to check it with our tire tread depth chart, and provide you with a quick quiz to determine when it’s time for a new set of wheels.
Decoding Your Tire’s Sidewall
Understanding the information on your tire sidewall is vital to ensuring your tires are in good condition. Check your sidewall for these two details:
Tire Size
This number tells you the dimensions of your tire. For example, a number like 245/40R18 means the tire is 245 millimeters wide, with a sidewall height of 40% of that width, and it fits an 18-inch wheel.
Tread Wear
This shows how your tire’s tread is doing and how well your tire should perform. It’s indicated with a number called the UTQG Rating. Higher numbers usually mean the tread lasts longer, but remember, it’s not a perfect measure. Check the manufacturer’s tread-life warranties for a better estimate.
Tire Tread Depth Chart
To help you understand your tires’ tread life and stay safe on the road, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that you can reference to make informed decisions about tire maintenance and replacement:
Easy Way To Test Your Tire Tread
One of the easiest ways to test your tire tread on your own is with a simple method known as the Penny Test. Follow these steps:
Step 1:
Place a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down between two ribs on your tire.
Step 2:
Check various points on the tire, including around the circumference and between different ribs, to look for uneven tire wear.
Step 3:
If the tread covers part of Lincoln’s head, your tires are still in good shape. This indicates that your tire tread is sufficient for maintaining traction and safety.
Step 4:
However, if you can see his entire head, it’s time to consider new tires. This means that your tread has worn down to 1/16 inch or less, which is the point where tires can start to lose their effectiveness, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.
See If You Need New Tires!
Ensuring your family’s safety on the road is a top priority. To help you determine if it’s time for new tires, check for signs of tire aging and assess tire wear. You should also keep an eye out for uneven treads or visible damage.
If you aren’t sure about how to spot worn tires, take our quick, five-question quiz below to see if you’re due for a new set. The experts at Big Chief Tire are always here to help you make the best decisions for your vehicle without pressuring you on services you don’t need.
Big Chief Tire Shop in Jacksonville, FL
At Big Chief Tire, your safety is our priority. That’s why our technicians are here to help you stay informed on everything you need to know about your tires’ tread depth and lifespans. Make an appointment at Big Chief Tire for a thorough inspection of your tires and ensure your safety on the road!