The Lowdown on Tire Tread

Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road. Here's why tread depth matters more than you might think:

The Penny Test

Here's a simple way to check your tread:

• Insert a penny into the tread groove — With Lincoln's head facing down.
• If you can see the top of Lincoln's head — Your tread is less than 2/32" and the tires need to be replaced immediately.
• If part of his head is covered — You have some tread remaining, but monitor closely.

The Dangers of Worn Tread

Insufficient tread creates serious safety risks:

• Hydroplaning — Worn tires can't channel water away, causing you to lose control on wet roads.
• Longer stopping distances — Less tread means less grip, significantly increasing the distance needed to stop.
• Loss of traction — Especially dangerous in rain, snow, or emergency maneuvers.

When to Replace

Don't wait until tread is completely gone:

• Replace at 4/32" for wet weather safety — Legal minimum is 2/32", but 4/32" is safer.
• Check for uneven wear — This could indicate alignment or suspension issues.

At Sherwood Auto Repair, we check your tires during every service and give you honest recommendations.