Last Updated on October 9, 2024
The Importance of Tire Tread Inspection for Holiday Travel
The holidays are a time of cheer and precious memories with friends and family from far and near. Between Thanksgiving and the first weekend in January, chances are you and yours will gather at a location that requires driving. Before you hit the road, do a tire tread check. Doing the tire tread check a few days before you leave is a good idea in case corrective action is needed. Here is what to look for and the actions to take when you do the tire tread check to ensure you arrive at your destination safe and sound.
How to do a Tire Tread Check
A tire tread check starts with a thorough visual inspection. Start by turning the steering wheel so you can see across the entire surface of the tread. You are looking for any signs of irregular wear affecting one area of the tread more than another. If the tires are wearing evenly, you should determine if you have enough tread on your tire. Experts agree that 2/32nds of rubber is the absolute limit for safe operation.
All tires have a bar molded into the grooves at 2/32nds of an inch. If you see that this bridge in the groove is level with the top of the tread during your tire tread check, then you know it is time to buy new tires.
Another easy way to measure the depth of the tread is using a penny. Insert a penny with Lincoln’s head pointing down, as shown in the photo. You should use one of the intermediary grooves, about halfway between the tire’s outside and the tread’s center line. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire is due to be replaced.
Rotate Tires If Worn Unevenly
Next to maintaining the correct air pressure, rotating the tires every 5,000 miles is the best way to extend the usable life of your tires. The suspension angles at each wheel position and the crown of the road mean that the stress on each tire varies from one corner of the vehicle to another. For this reason, moving the tire to a different position on the car helps prevent irregular wear patterns in the rubber. Also, front tires wear much faster than rear tires, so you want each tire to spend equal time on the front and back.
Rotation in the “modified X” pattern will work for most types of tires. The only exception is directional tires. If you have directional tires, your tire installer should know that they can only be rotated front to back on the same side of the vehicle.
Conclusion
Before embarking on your holiday travels, take a moment to prioritize your safety by performing a tire tread check. Adequate tire tread depth is essential for maintaining control and grip on the road, especially during adverse conditions. You can ensure a worry-free journey by following a few simple steps to assess your tire’s tread depth.
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Road Trip Ready with Tires-easy
Doing a tire tread check a few days before you leave on your holidays will allow you to get the tires rotated or replaced as needed. If your tires are worn to the wear bars, and you are shopping for new tires, check out Tires Easy for the best prices. We want to ensure a safe, fun holiday season for you and your family without any tire-related travel problems.
FAQs
How do I know if my tires are good for travel?
Check the tire tread depth to determine if your tires are suitable for travel. Insufficient tread depth can compromise grip and safety. Additionally, inspect the tires for signs of wear, such as cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns. If unsure, consult your vehicle’s manual for recommended tire specifications.
What is the safety of tire tread?
Tire tread provides traction and grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions. A sufficient tread depth ensures that water is efficiently channeled away from the tire’s contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and maintaining control. Insufficient tread depth can lead to reduced traction and safety hazards.
How do you check tire treads?
To check tire treads, you can use a simple method known as the “penny test.” Insert a penny into the tire’s tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace the tire. Alternatively, use a tread depth gauge for a more precise measurement.
What is the best tire pressure for long road trips?
Your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends the best tire pressure for long road trips. You can find this information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a placard on the driver’s side door jamb. Maintaining the correct tire pressure ensures optimal fuel efficiency, tire performance, and safety during extended journeys.
