How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Sufficient tread depth keeps you in control and helps your vehicle stop safely—especially in wet weather. You can measure tread quickly with a coin, read your tire’s wear bars, or use a tread depth gauge. New tires typically start around 10/32–11/32 of an inch. While 2/32 is the legal minimum in most states, safety and performance drop off well before then. For your safety, replace tires worn to or below 4/32.

Quick coin tests

Penny test (2/32)

• Place a penny into a tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down.
• If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tire is at or below 2/32 and should be replaced immediately.
• If Lincoln’s head is covered, you have more than 2/32 left—but consider the quarter test below for a safer threshold.

Quarter test (4/32)

• Place a quarter into a tread groove with Washington’s head upside down.
• If you can see the top of Washington’s head, your tread is at or below 4/32.
• Tires at or below 4/32 lose wet traction and hydroplane resistance. We highly recommend replacement at this point.

Tips: - Check several grooves across the tire and around its circumference; uneven wear is common. - Use the lowest reading you find as your true tread depth.

Read the built‑in wear bars

Most tires have tread wear indicator bars molded into the grooves at 2/32. If your tread blocks are level with these bars, the tire is worn out and needs to be replaced immediately.

Use a tread depth gauge

A gauge gives a precise reading in seconds: 1. Find the most worn spot in a tread groove and rest the gauge’s base on the tread blocks. 2. Press the probe to the bottom of the groove. 3. Remove and read the measurement on the barrel.

Check multiple spots and use the lowest number you find.

Not sure? Get a free tire check

If you’d rather have an expert take a look, stop by any Discount Tire location for a free tire inspection. We’ll check tread depth, overall tire condition, and air pressure, and help you plan next steps if replacement is needed.

• Schedule a no‑cost visit: Make an appointment
• Find a nearby store: Find my store
• Learn about what we check: Free tire inspection

What’s free at our stores: - Tire inspections, including tread depth measurements and wear checks - Air pressure checks and adjustments - TPMS light/pressure checks and a basic reset when possible during an air check; if a sensor or hardware needs repair or replacement, we’ll review options before any work is done

Note: America’s Tire is our store name in parts of the country. You can get the same free tire inspection and air‑pressure check at any America’s Tire location.

Ready to replace?

If your tires are worn to or below 4/32—or you want options tailored to your driving—start with Treadwell. It recommends tires that fit your vehicle, your driving style, and your driving area.

• Get personalized picks: Start with Treadwell
• See all tires at our lowest prices: Shop tires

We also install high‑quality windshield wipers. Ask for free wiper installation during your next tire service.