bushido

Is it possible to check how much tire thread is left on my own or do I have to bring it to a tire place? TIA!

bugbbq

there are wear indicators on your tire. you can check to see how close you are to them, I suppose.

rtking

The rule of thumb is this:

If you can just barely see the top of Lincoln's head on a penny (inserted head-first into the tread), then you have about 3/32nds of an inch.

If you use a Quarter and can barely see the top of the head, then you have about 4/32nds of an inch.

Tirerack.com has illustrations to help.

Bob
'97 A4 2.8QMS
'84 Mustang SVO

Bill S

when you see them it's much too late to change tires in my opinion (they're down to 1/5 or less of original tread).

Get a tire tread depth gauge. Inexpensive item at auto parts stores. That'll give you an accurate reading. Be sure to check inner, midde, and outer tread of every tire now and then to look for uneven wear that could indicate alignment or other problems. That, plus constant attention to correct tire inflation, will give you the best shot at long tire life and safe travel.

My OEM Conti's have given me well over 40K of good service and still have about 6/32" tread depth left. But I'm replacing them, even though officially they have a lot of life left. I don't believe in pinching pennies or taking chances with tires. Good luck.

ajp

On all the tires I've used wear bars you can see from brand new b/c they run perpindicular in the longitudal tire grooves...when you start getting close to those (which indicate a tread depth of 2/32's) replace your tires. But that said, the tire depth gauge is certainly most effective and definitely a good idea...
I got burned with my most recent set of sp5000's b/c I think the dealer screwed my toe in significantly when doing the tie rod recall and my (lowered 50mm) car ate through the fronts in 6k. Inside edge wore bald. Should have payed better attention. DOh!!!!
alex

stgardner

The penny test is as good as any. Just stick Lincoln's head into the tread. If you can see the top of his head, it's time to change. Also, most tire shops have a gauge to measure the remaining depth.

rtking

I tried to save a few $$$ and kept the old Michelin XGT Vs the previous owner had on the car. Unfortunately it came back to bite me as they were old, hard and (even though they had about 4/32nds of an inch tread) managed to not get any traction and I slide into a curb and damaged a wheel.

That said, I'd advise going with new tires if in doubt. The SP 5000 Sports I put on are SO much better than the outdated technology of the Michelins! (Better dry grip, outstanding wet grip, good for snow use... and they're quieter too!)

Bob
'97 A4 2.8QMS
'84 Mustang SVO