How to perform the penny test to check car tire tread wear

Ensuring your tires have sufficient tread depth 

Keeping your vehicle’s tires in top condition is essential for safety and performance. At Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead, located in Peoria, Arizona, we want to help you stay safe on the road by ensuring your tires have sufficient tread depth. One of the easiest ways to check your tire tread is by performing the simple penny test. Read on to learn how to perform the penny test to check car tire tread wear at home and when it’s time to visit our service center for a professional inspection or replacement. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Penny Test 

The penny test is a fast and reliable method to check whether your tires have enough tread depth to provide proper traction. Follow these simple steps: 

1. Grab a penny. Use a standard U.S. penny for this test. 
2. Insert the penny into the tread grooves. Place the penny with Lincoln’s head facing down into the tire tread. 
3. Check how much of Lincoln’s head is visible. 
   1. If the top of Lincoln’s head is fully visible, your tread is too worn, and it’s time to replace your tires. 
   2. If part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread, your tires still have a safe amount of tread left. 
4. Repeat the test on multiple spots. Check different areas of the tire to ensure even wear. 
5. Consider professional inspection. If your tread is low or uneven, visit Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead for an expert evaluation. 

Get Your Tires Checked and Changed at Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead 

If your tire tread is worn down, it can compromise your vehicle’s grip and handling, especially in wet conditions. At Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead, our certified technicians can inspect your tires and recommend the best options for replacements. We carry a variety of Mercedes-Benz-approved tires to match your vehicle’s specifications for optimal performance and safety. Plus, our state-of-the-art service center in Peoria, AZ, provides tire rotation, balancing, and alignment services to extend the life of your new tires. 

Other Tools for Measuring Tire Wear 

While the penny test is a quick and easy way to check your tread, there are other tools available for more precise measurements: 

• Tread Depth Gauge: A specialized tool that provides an exact measurement of tread depth in millimeters or 32nds of an inch. 
• Tread Wear Indicator Bars: Most modern tires come with built-in tread wear indicator bars that appear when the tire is worn down to 2/32 of an inch, signaling the need for replacement. 
• Digital Tire Gauges: These offer digital readings of your tread depth, making them an accurate and easy-to-use alternative to the penny test.