How to Check Tire Tread Depth

July 21st, 2022 by

2023 Honda HRV Alloy Wheels
 

Maintaining strong tires will keep you moving with ease on Redmond roads and beyond, and you might be thinking: “How do I check tire tread wear?” Thankfully, you can easily add this to your regular auto service routine with our easy guide on how to check your tire tread depth from the automotive service experts at Honda of Kirkland today!

 

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What is the Recommended Tire Tread Depth?

Brand new tires typically have a tread depth of about 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch), and it’s recommended that you replace your tires once the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Certain specialty sets like winter tires and tires designed for off-roading in trucks and SUVs will even come with deeper tread grooves to handle the elements. How long it takes your treads to wear depends on your driving habits.

How to Check Tire Tread Depth: The Penny Test

If you have a ruler around, this is an easy and accurate way to check tire tread depth, or you can also use the trusted penny test for a quick gauge on your tire wear. Find any U.S. penny you have in the car or around the house and follow these simple steps:

  1. Insert a penny with Lincoln head-first into a tire tread groove.
  2. Observe if Lincoln’s head is covered and no longer visible between the grooves.
  3. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, that means your tire treads are 2/32 inches deep or less and it’s time to replace them.
  4. Repeat this process on all four tires and in multiple locations on each tire.

How Do I Check Tire Tread Wear Using Other Methods?

Even if you don’t have an extra penny somewhere in the car or around, checking your tire tread depth can be done in the following ways as well:

  • Tread Depth Gauge: One way to check your tire tread wear without a penny is with a tread depth gauge. You would need to purchase it, but many Seattle car owners will find it to be an affordable and worthwhile investment. Simply insert the probe into the shallowest tread groove, then press the top bar of the gauge flat against the tire to see the tread wear rating.
  • Tread Wear Bars: Most tires come with tread wear indicator bars built into them. You’ll find them at the bottom of the tread grooves in multiple locations across the tire. If the bars are flush with the tire ribs that surround them, it indicates that the tread depth has reached 2/32 of an inch.

Maintain Your Tire Tread Depth at Honda of Kirkland

Now that you know how to check the tire tread depth, you can ensure your ride maintains a steady ride on Seattle roads. Find more helpful service tips and tricks at Honda of Kirkland to keep your vehicle running at its best along with many other ways to save with our rotating service specials and coupons. You can even order OEM parts online for sale and have them ready for your next visit. Contact us today for more information and to schedule an appointment at our dealership in Kirkland!

Our Service Specials

Cabin Air Filter Replacement

$10 Off

Your vehicle’s cabin air filter helps remove allergens, particulates, and odors from the interior of your vehicle, keeping things nice and fresh. The cabin air filter also helps keep your interior clean, by removing dust from the air. Like all filters, your Honda’s cabin air filter will become clogged over time. As the filter becomes clogged, it will work less efficiently…you’ll get less airflow, more dust, more odors, etc.

If you suffer from allergies, asthma, or a great sense of smell, you NEED to replace your Honda’s Cabin Air Filter on a regular basis. And an OEM replacement is best, as Honda specifies the amount of filtration for each specific system. Some after-market filters are too light, meaning they won’t filter enough air. Other filters are too heavy, which will strain your vehicle’s HVAC system.

Prices may vary by model. Plus taxes and fees where applicable. Please present coupon during write-up. Not to be combined with any other discounts.

Expires: 08/03/2026

"B" Service Special

$10 Off

“B” Service Special:
oil and filter change, inspect front/rear brakes, check parking brake adjustment, inspect driveshaft boots, tie-rod ends, steering gearbox, gearbox parts, suspension components, brake hoses and lines, all fluid levels, exhaust system and fuel lines.

Valid only at Honda of Kirkland. Prices may vary by model. Plus taxes and fees where applicable. Up to 4.5 qts. $8.89 extra for 5.7 qt. systems. Coupon must be presented at time of write-up. One coupon per customer, per visit. Not valid with any other offer, promotion or special. Not to be used to reduce outstanding debt. No cash value. Not retroactive. See dealership for details. Void where prohibited by law.
Expires: 08/03/2026

"A" Service Special - Oil Change with Multi-Point Inspection

$5 Off

“A” Service Special – Oil Change with Multi-Point Inspection
In addition to providing top-quality Honda Genuine oil and a Honda Genuine oil filter, we’ll perform a free multi-point inspection. Competitive prices, Honda-trained technicians and Honda Genuine Parts. Why take your Honda anywhere else? Includes replacing engine oil per specifications, assessing and adjusting fluid levels and complimentary multi-point inspection.

Valid only at Honda of Kirkland. Up to 4.5 qts. $8.89 extra for 5.7 qt. systems. Coupon must be presented at time of write-up. One coupon per customer, per visit. Not valid with any other offer, promotion or special. Not to be used to reduce outstanding debt. No cash value. Not retroactive. See dealership for details. Void where prohibited by law.
Expires: 08/03/2026

Brake Pad Replacement

$35 Off

Front or Rear Brake Pad Replacement w/ Rotor Resurfacing

Valid only at Honda of Kirkland. Prices may vary by model. Plus taxes and fees where applicable. Please present coupon during write-up. Not to be combined with any other discounts. Includes brake pad replacement and rotor resurfacing. Discount does not apply if customer elects to defer resurfacing.
Expires: 08/03/2026

Brake Fluid Exchange

$10 Off

Honda recommends brake fluid replacement every 3 years. Brake fluid loses its ability over time to absorb moisture from the brake lines. This can result in loss of brake pedal pressure due to a lower boiling point and corrosion.

Prices may vary by model. Plus taxes and fees where applicable. Please present coupon during write-up. Not to be combined with any other discounts.

Expires: 08/03/2026

Discount on Vehicle Service

$15.00 OFF

Save on vehicle service (including parts and labor)
$10.00 – Discount on service from $100.00-$199.99
$15.00 – Discount on service from $200.00 or more

Prices may vary by model. Plus taxes and fees where applicable. Please present coupon during write-up. Not to be combined with any other discounts. Coupon not valid for tire purchase or vehicle alignment. Not Valid for Diagnostic Fees.

Expires: 08/03/2026

Battery Replacement

$15 Off

Have a Honda Genuine battery installed today and drive confidently! Includes our 100-month limited warranty.

Valid only at Honda of Kirkland. Prices may vary by year and model of the vehicle. Plus taxes and fees where applicable. Please present coupon during write-up. Not to be combined with any other discounts.
Expires: 08/03/2026

Tire Inspection and Alignment

$125.00+tax

Valid only at Honda of Kirkland. Prices may vary by year and model of the vehicle. Plus taxes and fees where applicable. Please present coupon during write-up. Not to be combined with any other discounts.
Expires: 08/03/2026
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