What is the tread depth of car tires?
2 Answers
Tire tread depth standards are as follows: greater than 3.5mm indicates good condition, 2.5~3.5mm is normal condition, less than 2.5mm requires replacement, and the tread must be replaced when it reaches the limit value of 1.6mm. Below is some information about car tire tread depth: 1. National regulations: According to national standards, the wear limit for radial tires used in passenger cars is 1.6mm, while the wear limit for radial tires used in trucks and buses is 2.0mm. Therefore, when the tread of a passenger car wears down to 1.6mm, it must be replaced, and tires used in trucks and buses must be replaced when the tread depth reaches 2.0mm. 2. Inspection methods: Check using the tread wear indicators built into the tire; when the tread wear indicators are flush with the tread surface, the tire needs to be replaced. Alternatively, use a tire tread depth gauge to measure the tread depth.
When it comes to tire tread depth, I believe most ordinary car owners understand its importance. After driving for several years, I’ve learned that tread depth directly impacts driving safety, especially on wet roads during the rainy season. New tires typically have a tread depth of 8 to 9 millimeters, which gradually wears down with use. Once the depth falls below 1.6 millimeters, it reaches a critical risk point—I’ve personally tested this by feeling with my fingers or inserting a dime into the grooves. If too much of the coin’s edge is exposed, it’s basically time to replace the tires. This is no trivial matter. Last year, I neglected it once and nearly had an accident due to tire slippage. Since then, I check every three months. Insufficient tread depth not only increases braking distance but also reduces water drainage in wet conditions, raising the risk of hydroplaning. I advise fellow drivers to make it a habit to have technicians measure tread depth during routine maintenance to avoid trouble on long trips. Safe driving is the foundation of everything—don’t wait for an accident to regret it.
