QA

Question: When To Change Tire Tread Depth

New tires typically come with 10/32” or 11/32” tread depths, and some truck, SUV and winter tires may have deeper tread depths than other models. The U.S. Department of Transportation recommends replacing tires when they reach 2/32”, and many states legally require tires to be replaced at this depth.

Should I replace my tires at 3 32?

6/32″ or higher: Your tire’s tread depth is sufficient. 5/32″: If snow-covered roads are a concern, you should consider replacing your tires. 4/32″: If you frequently drive on wet roads, consider replacing your tires. 3/32″: It’s time to start shopping for new tires.

Should I change my tires at 4 32?

“Tire Rack’s advice is that if rain and wet roads are a concern, you should consider replacing your tires when they reach approximately 4/32″ of remaining tread depth.” Obviously the tread will wear away over the life of the tire and the volume of its tread grooves will be reduced.

What is bad tire tread depth?

Once your tire tread is below 1/8th of an inch of rubber, most industry experts suggest preparing to replace. If you’re down to 1/16th of an inch, your tires are considered worn out, and most states require immediate replacement.

What is a good tread depth for used tires?

Used tires tread can be up to 90%, but the average is 6-8/32”. Tires in good condition should have a minimum of 6/32” to be useful, or 4/32” if the tire is 13-14”. The average legal minimum tread depth is 2/32”, but driving becomes unsafe with such a tread.

What percentage tread is 8 32?

8/32″ of useable tread depth. A tire that starts with 10/32″ of original tread depth has 12.5% wear for every 1/32″ that is worn away, and a tire that starts with 12/32″ ” of original tread depth, has 10% wear for every 1/32″ that is worn away, etc.

Is 9/32 A good tire tread depth?

New tires have an average tread depth of 8 to 9 millimeters (10/32 to 11/32 inches). As you drive, the tread will wear down. A tire with a tread depth below 1.6 millimeters (2/32 inches) lacks grip. Braking distance and vehicle control are impaired.

How many 32nds are on a new tire?

In the United States, tire tread depth is measured in 32nds of an inch. New tires typically come with 10/32” or 11/32” tread depths, and some truck, SUV and winter tires may have deeper tread depths than other models.

What is the best time to change winter tires?

When is the best time to switch over to winter tires? The general rule of thumb is that between Thanksgiving and Easter, you’ll need winter tires. These holidays are the markers because they fall during the start and end of the time of year when it’s likely that the temperature will regularly be at or below 7°C.

Is 5 32 A good tire tread depth?

Tread depth what to do 6/32” Your tire’s tread depth is sufficient for 3-seasons but nearing minimum for a winter tire. 5/32” If wet roads are a concern, consider replacing your tires. 4/32” – 3/32” Seriously consider replacing your tires as soon as possible. If it’s a winter tire, 4/32” is the minimum.

What do unsafe tires look like?

4: The Tread Wear Indicator Bar These bars, invisible or barely visible when the tires are new, gradually begin to appear as the tread wears down. They appear as flat rubber bars running perpendicular to the direction of the tread itself. If more than one or two of these are visible on a tire, the tread is getting low.

Is 80 percent tire tread good?

Here’s what the heck that means: 2/32nds of tread is the legal minimum of tread you need on your tires to pass inspection in most states. Most tires have 10/32nds of tread when new, and when 80 percent of the tread has worn down, or its reached 2/32nds, it’s time for new tires.

How many miles are tires good for?

Your tires should last 50,000 to 60,000 miles on average. But that really depends on the manufacturer. Some manufacturers build their tires to last up to 80,000 miles, while some design their tires to last as little as 30,000 miles. You can see how many miles to expect out of a tire by checking its treadwear rating.

Why you should never buy used tires?

Used tires are sold and put on cars with regularity, which is a bit concerning. The tire could have been driven overloaded, underinflated, or to excessively high speed. Any one or a combination of these factors could lead to internal damage not visible from the outside. In short, the used tire could be unsafe.

Is 50 percent tire tread good?

If the tread reaches the bear’s paws, your tires are probably pretty new. If it reaches all the way across the silver, they’re about 50% worn. If your tire tread reaches only about half-way into the letters, it’s time to shop for new tires.

Is it better to buy used or new tires?

Used tires usually cost 30-50% cheaper than new ones, even if their condition is almost as good as new tires. The fact they were once mounted on a vehicle lowers the price of the tire itself. So you can get the best deal possible if you find a used tire, or even a full set, in good condition.