Checking Tire Tread
There is a simple way for checking to see if there is enough tread on your tires. All passenger, light truck, and medium commercial tires have tread wear indicator bars moulded into the tread. These bars are located at the bottoms of the tread grooves in several locations around the tire, and when the tire is worn to the point where any of them become visibly flushed with the adjacent tread ribs, it is time to replace the tire.
Wear On Both Edges: UNDER INFLATION
If a tire looks like this, it may be under inflated. The worst enemy a tire can have is too little inflation pressure. Under inflation reduces treadlife through increased tread wear on the outside edges (or shoulders) of the tire. It also generates excessive heat which reduces tire durability. Finally, it reduces fuel economy through increased rolling resistance (soft tires makes your vehicle work harder). Check your tires regularly for proper inflation. Abnormal tire wear may also be due to misalignment or mechanical problems. Goodyear retailers can provide expert diagnosis and repair.
Back to topWear In Centre: OVER INFLATION
When a tire is over inflated, the centre of the tread bears most of the load and wears out faster than the outside edges. Uneven wear reduces the useful life of a tire. Check your tires regularly for proper inflation. Abnormal tire wear may also be due to misalignment or mechanical problems. Goodyear retailers can provide expert diagnosis and repair.
Back to topCups Or Dips In The Tread: WORN PARTS
Cupping (also called dipping or scalloping) is most common on front tires, though rear tires can cup as well. It may be a sign that wheels are out of balance or that suspension or steering system parts are worn out. Many Goodyear retailers can provide expert diagnosis and repair.
Back to topSawtooth Edges: MISALIGNMENT
Do the edges of the tread take on a sawtooth or feathered appearance? This is caused by erratic scrubbing against the road. The solution is toe-in or toe-out.
Back to topThe P5 Coin Test
Simply insert a P5 coin into your tire tread right side up (see the image below). As long as the wavvy line at the bottom edge of the coin is not exposed, your tire treads are not worn out and have adaquate grip for your safe driving.
