At what tread depth should tires be replaced?
2 Answers
Tires should be replaced when the tread depth falls below 2.5mm. Here are specific details about tire safety usage: Driving changes: Tire deformation can cause the vehicle to deviate from its intended direction during driving, produce loud abnormal noises, and lead to irregular wear and other malfunctions. Once deformed, the braking performance of the tire will deteriorate. Internal changes: When tires exhibit deformation, cracking, or bulging, the internal structure layers of the tire undergo changes. This significantly reduces the tire's pressure resistance, load-bearing capacity, and speed tolerance. Continued use poses a risk of tire blowout.
With over a decade of experience in long-distance driving, I know that tires are not something to be taken lightly. According to national standards, tires must be replaced when the tread depth falls below 1.6mm, but seasoned drivers understand that waiting until that point is too late. When the tire grooves are as shallow as about 3mm, they become prone to slipping in rainy weather, especially when braking at high speeds, where the stopping distance significantly increases. I usually perform the coin test: insert a one-yuan coin into the tread—if the top of the national emblem is visible, it means there's only about 2mm of tread depth left, and it's time to prepare for a tire change. When washing the car, always check if the tread wear is even; if it's uneven, you should also check the wheel alignment. Safety comes first—don't skimp on tires to save money.
