How to Check Tire Wear?
3 Answers
Methods to check tire wear: Observe whether there is abnormal uneven wear on the tire tread or use a ruler to measure the depth of each tread groove to see if they are similar; Check if there is abnormal feather-like wear on the tread; Inspect each tread block for signs of chamfering (uneven tread blocks, missing corners, or front-high and rear-low conditions). Feel the tread surface with your hand to check for unevenness (step differences), and examine whether the tread ribs on both sides of the longitudinal grooves are of the same height. Sawtooth wear on the tread: This is caused by improper front wheel alignment, displacement of the front suspension system, or loose ball joints. Normal rolling wheels producing slippage or constantly changing wheel alignment during driving can also cause sawtooth wear on the tires.
Checking tire wear is quite simple. With decades of driving experience, I've picked up a few tricks. When you have time after parking, squat down and carefully inspect the tire surface. The easiest method is to take a one-yuan coin, insert it upside down into the tire tread groove. If the national emblem pattern is completely visible, it means the tread depth is below 1.6mm, and it's time to replace the tire. Feeling the depth variation by hand is also useful—be cautious if it's shallow or uneven. Additionally, watch for cracks or bulges on the tire sidewalls, which indicate aging or impact damage and can lead to blowouts. I once nearly had an accident due to skidding in the rain because I neglected to check, so now I make it a habit to inspect monthly. Safety comes first—excessive wear affects traction, especially at high speeds or in wet conditions, increasing the risk of losing control. It’s also good practice to check after each car wash to ensure your tires are roadworthy.
I enjoy DIY car maintenance, and checking tire wear is a basic task. I often use a tread depth gauge, bought for just a few bucks, inserting it into the tire grooves to take measurements—if it's below 2mm, it's time to replace them. If you don't have the tool, try using a penny: if it doesn't fully expose Lincoln's head when inserted, the tread is still okay. Pay special attention to whether the wear is even—for example, if the inner side is worn more, it might mean your car needs a wheel alignment. I give my tires a quick visual check before driving each week; if I spot cracks or bulges, I address them immediately, as those are signs of an impending blowout. I learned online that regular tire rotation extends their lifespan, so I do it every 5,000 kilometers. Seasonal changes also have a big impact: summer heat accelerates tire aging, while autumn and winter dampness increases the risk of skidding. Developing this small habit saves a lot of money and ensures a smoother ride.
