How To Check Tire Tread

 
Before prepping your summer tires to be stored for the winter season, you may want to check the tire tread they have left to determine if it’s even worth it to store them. Having optimal tire tread is important because you want the most amount of traction possible for your Chicago drives on iced-over streets, especially in a performance vehicle with such great power. Take a moment to learn all about how to interpret tire tread wear and use a tread wear indicator. Then, if you find you need tire replacements or have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ferrari Lake Forest!
 

 
As you begin to drive on the track or on paved roads around Indianapolis, IN, your tires will start to wear down and there will be a reduced amount of tread. So, then, how do you check my tire tread wear? Our service experts are here to help. Learn how to check your tire tread depth today with Ferrari Lake Forest!

Typical Tire Tread Depth

Before we touch on how to check your tire tread depth, it’s important that you know what your tire tread should be at. Different tires will have different tread depths when they’re new because they’re designed for different purposes. Winter and off-road tires will usually have more tread than summer and performance tires found on exotic vehicles. Most standard tires have around 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch of tread when they’re new. It’s often recommended to replace tires when they reach around 2/32 of an inch.

How Do I Check Tire Tread Wear?

Checking your tire tread wear is simple, and you can likely even do it in your own Minneapolis, MN garage if you’ve got a tire tread depth gauge. Of course, you can always bring it to our service center, and we’ll be more than happy to assist. However, if you like to tackle DIY auto projects on your own, and you want to learn how to check your tire tread depth, here’s the easiest way to do it:

1. Turn your steering wheel, so that you can fully inspect your front tires.
2. Ensure that there’s even wear across the tire.
3. Take the tread depth gauge and insert it into a groove in between the tire tread.
4. You should be able to read where the tire tread is at, as the gauge includes a tread wear indicator. If it’s at 2/32 of an inch or less, you’ll need to get new tires.
5. Repeat the steps we just went over until all your tires have been inspected.

How Do I Check Tire Tread Wear Without a Tread Depth Gauge?

A tire tread depth gauge is useful to have and should be something that you always have on hand. However, if you don’t have a tread depth gauge, here are other ways you can inspect tire tread wear:

• Penny Test: Did you know that you can check your tire tread with a standard U.S. penny? With the Lincoln head facing down into the tire, place the penny between the grooves of the tread. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tires are likely around 2/32 of an inch and will need to be replaced.
• Tread Wear Bars: Many tires have tread wear bars built into the tire to indicate when it’s time for a replacement. These tread wear indicators are typically in multiple locations of the tire, and if the bars are flush with the surrounding tire ribs, it likely means that it’s time for a new set of tires.

Get Ready for the Season With Ferrari Lake Forest!

Whether you’re prepping your vehicle for storage or you’re getting your vehicle ready for an exciting drive, our experts at Ferrari Lake Forest can help! Contact our team today to prepare your vehicle for any season. And while you’re here, be sure to explore our overview of how often to service your Ferrari, how often to change your Ferrari battery, and be sure to explore our site for other helpful reads as well!

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