How to Check Tire Tread Depth

Perhaps you’ve observed that the tires on your Toyota are growing bald, but you want to get more miles out of them before buying a new set. Many Lake Park customers have asked us, “How do I check tire tread wear?” Learn how to check tire tread depth and learn what is a safe amount of tire tread here with Earl Stewart Toyota. We are your premier tire resource and always happy to help, so contact us today!

How to Determine Safe Tire Tread Depth

A safe tread depth on your Toyota tires depends on the type of tires you have. Typically, new tires have tread depths somewhere between 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch. But if you have a Toyota 4Runner or Toyota Tacoma and have heavy-duty tires for off-roading in the Palm Beach County area or often drive during winter conditions, you have much deeper tread grooves for better traction. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) states that a safe tire tread depth is around 2/32 of an inch or more. If your everyday Toyota tires are less than that, you likely need a new set of tires. Contact the Earl Stewart Toyota parts department to order your new Toyota tires today.

How to Use a Penny to Check Your Tire Tread Wear

If you’ve ever asked someone, “How do I check tire tread wear?” keep reading. You can use a penny to check your Toyota tire tread depth or even use a ruler if you don’t have a penny. Once you have a penny handy, do the following:

• Place the penny sideways between the grooves of your tires. Then, turn the penny so that President Lincoln’s head is facing towards the ground.
• Observe how much of Lincoln’s head is covered by the grooves of your tires.
• If you can see all of President Lincoln’s face, that tire tread is less than 2/32 of an inch and too bald. It would be best if you got new tires right away.
• Continue to check the tire tread depth using the same method on all four of your Toyota tires.

Helpful Tips to Help Keep Your Tires in Good Condition

If you have questions on tire care for your car, contact the Earl Stewart Toyota service center near West Palm Beach. Here are some additional tips that will help keep your Toyota tires in top condition on Palm Beach Gardens roads:

• Inspect your tires for extreme or uneven wear
• Routinely have your tires rotated
• Check your tire pressure, including your spare tire. The recommended PSI is written on the outside of each tire.
• Have your wheel alignment inspected

Contact the Earl Stewart Toyota Service Center For New Tires

Now that you know the answer to the question, “How do I check tire tread wear?” and how to check tire tread depth, if you need auto care, contact Earl Stewart Toyota. Our professional service center team is always at your service. From new tires to oil changes and auto maintenance needs to Toyota OEM parts and accessories, we’re happy to help. Reach out to us today.