Why Tire Tread Depth Is Important For Safe Driving

The Benefits of Proper Tire Tread Depth 

As a car owner, you know that your tires play a crucial role in your vehicle’s performance. But did you know that the tread depth of your tires can significantly affect your safety while driving? In this blog, we’ll explore the role of tire tread depth in handling and performance and provide tips on properly caring for your tires to ensure optimal safety on the road, all from the perspective of automotive professionals. So let’s get started!

What Is Tire Tread Depth? 

Tire tread depth is the depth of grooves, or “tread,” that are visible in your tire’s rubber surface. The peaks and valleys between the higher and lower parts of the rubber; that’s what we mean when we say tread!

These grooves help disperse water and provide traction between the tire and the road, which improves handling and braking performance in wet weather conditions. The deeper the groove, the more effectively it can disperse water and provide traction. This is why maintaining proper tire tread depth is so important for safe driving. 

Why Is Tire Tread Depth Important For Safety? 

Adequate tire tread depth helps keep your vehicle stable on wet roads, especially when turning or braking suddenly, by providing better traction between the road surface and the tires. If your tires have low tread, they may not be able to grip the road as effectively, leading to reduced control over steering and braking.

Low tire tread increases the risk of hydroplaning or skidding off-road in wet weather conditions. Moreover, low tire tread can lead to poor fuel economy because your engine has to work harder to move a car with low tread than one with sufficient tread depth. 

How To Identify Low Tire Tread Depth?

You can identify low tire tread by using a penny test or a specialized tool called a “tire gauge.” To perform a penny test, insert a penny into several points across each tire’s groove with Lincoln’s head facing down towards the groove; if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, then it’s time for new tires!

If you don’t have access to a penny, using a “tire gauge” will also help you measure tire pressure accurately as well as identify if any of your tires are wearing down too much due to improper inflation levels or frequent use over long distances at higher speeds on highways/motorways etc. The recommended minimum is 2/32 inch (1 mm) of remaining tread depth across all four tires – you should replace anything less than this as soon as possible for optimal road safety.

How Do You Care For Your Tires’ Tread?

Properly inflated tires are essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Each tire has it’s own pressure limits, and you can usually find that inside the side of your driver’s door, on a sticker. Additionally, ensure that all four tires are rotated regularly (every three months or after 1-2,000 miles), so they wear evenly.

This will help maintain their overall performance/life span over time without having any side effects such as premature wear & tear due to excessive loading/movement on one side only etc. An alignment check every six months will help reduce uneven tire wear due to misalignment problems caused by rogue potholes etc.  

Why You Want A Professional To Help You Care For Your Tires

It is important to have a professional help you care for your tires because they have the training and expertise to properly inspect and care for your tires, the tools and equipment to do the job efficiently and accurately, and can ensure that your tires are in good condition for safety on the road. 

Additionally, a professional can save you time and effort by taking care of the tire care process for you. Overall, seeking the help of a professional to care for your tires can provide peace of mind, ensuring that your tires are ready to handle the demands of the road.

Establishing regular service intervals with a trusted auto repair center will help ensure your tires stay healthy and safer for longer. Tread depth is important for a myriad of reasons, and you don’t want to overlook the safety basics when on the road.

Visit the incredible team of ASE-Certified mechanics and master mechanics at Dick’s Automotive in Clovis, CA, today. Please contact us today and please schedule an appointment via our website. Also, visit us on our Facebook page and get involved in our community!