If you find yourself wondering, “How do I check tire tread wear?” don’t worry–Underriner Honda of Walla Walla has the answers. A simple ruler or penny is all you need, and you can check your tire tread depth at home in Tri-Cities! Discover the different ways you can check your tread depth below, then contact us at Underriner Honda of Walla Walla if you think you need to change your tires!
What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?
For new tires, treads should have a depth of 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch). Though there are some exceptions like winter tires, off-roading tires, as well as some truck and SUV tires. These specialty tires may have even deeper tread grooves.
Once the tread has worn down to 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace your tires according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Proper tire tread depth is essential to safe driving in Walla Walla, and proper tire care can even extend to life of your tires.
The Penny Test
While a ruler will give you the most accurate measurement, a penny is another easy way to test tire treads if you don’t have a ruler handy. The unique design on the U.S. penny makes it the perfect household tool to measure your tire wear. To check your tire tread with a penny, follow these simple steps:
- Insert a penny with Lincoln’s head face first into the tire tread groove.
- Look to see if Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
- If you can see all of Lincoln’s face, then it is time for new tires, because your tire treads are 2/32 inches deep or less.
- Repeat this process on all four tires and in multiple locations on each tire.
More Ways to Check Tire Health
If you want to try a more precise method, there are special tools available in Dayton to check your tires. The most common tools include a tire tread depth gauge or tread wear bar. These have a visible mark built into the tire which indicates the 2/32 inch mark. While you are checking your tire tread depth, some more things inspect include:
- Tire pressure
- Any visible tire damage
- Tire rot or disintegration
- Wheel alignment
Maintain Your Tires at Underriner Honda of Walla Walla
If you have questions about your tires, when you bring your vehicle into our local tire center for regular maintenance, our technicians can check them for any issues or wear. You can even learn more about how to reset a Honda Civic oil light, what is tire rotation, or how to remove stickers from cars. Contact us today, and be sure to check our parts specials to get a great deal!
More From Underriner Honda of Walla Walla
Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander: Which 3-Row SUV Is the Better Buy Near Walla Walla?
If you are shuttling kids, gear, and the occasional carpool across the Walla Walla Valley, the three-row SUV you choose has to earn its keep every single day. For most families near Walla Walla and College Place who want maximum room for occupants and cargo, easy-to-use technology, and a long reliability reputation, the 2025 Honda…
How to Change a Brake Light on Your Honda, and When to Let the Pros Handle It
On most Hondas, you can replace a burned-out brake light bulb yourself in about 15 to 30 minutes: locate the bulb housing behind the taillight assembly (usually reached through the trunk lining or by removing the assembly from outside), twist out the old bulb, snap in a matching replacement, and test it before you drive….
Should You Pay Off Your Honda Car Loan Early? What Walla Walla Buyers Should Know
Yes, in most cases you can pay off a Honda car loan early, and doing so can save you money on interest and free up your monthly budget faster. The key is to first confirm your loan has no prepayment penalty, then decide whether the interest you would save outweighs other uses for that cash….
0 comment(s) so far on How Do I Check Tire Tread Depth?