How to Tell If Your Tires Need Replacing

You likely need new tires if tread depth is at or below 2/32 inch (1.6 mm), you see cracks, bulges, cords, or uneven wear, the tires are 6–10 years old, you’re losing air repeatedly, or you feel new vibrations or pulling while driving. Check tread wear indicators, measure depth with a gauge or coin test, read the DOT date code, and seek a professional inspection for any damage or irregular wear.

The Critical Signs Your Tires Are Worn Out

Several visible and performance-related clues reliably signal that tires are at the end of their safe life. Understanding these markers helps you decide when to replace them before safety is compromised.

• Tread depth at or below 2/32 inch (1.6 mm), or winter tire snow performance declining below about 5/32 inch (4 mm).
• Exposed cords, cuts, splits, sidewall bulges/bubbles, or cracks/dry rot.
• Frequent air loss, embedded objects, or punctures in the sidewall or larger than 1/4 inch (6 mm) in the tread.
• Uneven wear patterns (inner/outer shoulder wear, cupping, feathering) indicating alignment or suspension issues.
• Persistent vibration, thumping, pulling, or increased road noise that wasn’t present before.
• Age: tires approaching 6 years warrant annual professional inspection; many manufacturers advise replacing by 10 years from manufacture, regardless of tread.
• TPMS warning that repeats even after proper inflation, suggesting air loss or damage.

If you notice one or more of these conditions, plan for replacement soon; if you see structural damage (bulges, exposed cords), stop driving and replace immediately.

Tread Depth: What the Numbers Mean

Tread depth affects braking, wet grip, and hydroplaning resistance far earlier than the legal minimum. In the U.S., 2/32 inch is the legal limit; traction in the rain drops notably under 4/32 inch, and winter traction declines under about 5/32 inch. Always measure at multiple points across and around the tire.

Use these simple checks to measure tread depth without a gauge.

1. Penny test (2/32 inch): Insert a U.S. penny with Lincoln’s head upside down into the tread. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, tread is at or below 2/32 inch—replace now.
2. Quarter test (4/32 inch): Insert a U.S. quarter with Washington’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Washington’s head, you’re at or below 4/32 inch—consider replacing for better wet braking.
3. Wear bars: Look for raised bridges between tread grooves; when they’re flush with the tread, you’ve hit roughly 2/32 inch.
4. Tread gauge: A $5–$10 depth gauge gives the most accurate reading in 32nds of an inch or millimeters.

Checking with a coin is quick, but a gauge confirms measurements and helps spot uneven wear across the tread, which can signal alignment or inflation issues.

Aging and the DOT Code

Tires age from heat, UV, and ozone—even when parked. Find the DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) stamped on the sidewall; the last four digits show the week and year of manufacture (e.g., 2319 = week 23 of 2019). Many automakers and tiremakers recommend professional inspection at 6 years and replacement at 10 years from the DOT date, regardless of tread. Hot climates, heavy loads, and outdoor storage can accelerate aging. Don’t overlook the spare: age it the same way.

Damage That Demands Immediate Replacement

Certain types of damage are unsafe to drive on and typically non-repairable. If you spot any of the following, replace the tire rather than attempt a repair.

• Sidewall bulges or bubbles (often due to impact causing internal cord damage).
• Cuts or punctures in the sidewall, or tread punctures larger than 1/4 inch (6 mm).
• Visible cords, separations, blisters, or tread/belt separation signs.
• Severe cracking/dry rot or chunking of rubber.
• Multiple overlapping repairs or repairs outside industry guidelines (proper repairs require a patch+plug from the inside of the tire and only in the repairable tread area).

Driving on a compromised tire risks a sudden failure at speed. When in doubt, tow the vehicle to a tire shop for inspection rather than driving on the damaged tire.

Performance Clues While Driving

How a vehicle feels can reveal tire problems before they’re obvious to the eye. Pay attention to these sensations, especially if they’re new or worsening.

• Vibration or thumping that varies with speed (possible balance issue, uneven wear, or internal separation).
• Pulling to one side or a crooked steering wheel on a straight road (alignment or tire issue).
• Increased road noise or a rhythmic “whup-whup” (cupping or irregular wear).
• Frequent hydroplaning or longer wet stopping distances (low tread depth).
• Recurring TPMS alerts or the need to add air more than monthly (slow leak or damage).

Any new or unusual driving behavior warrants a tire and alignment check. Early attention can prevent premature wear and improve safety.

Uneven Wear and What It Means

Uneven wear points to underlying problems that replacement alone won’t fix. Identifying the pattern helps you correct the cause and protect new tires.

• Inner or outer shoulder wear: often alignment (camber/toe) or worn suspension parts.
• Center wear: chronic overinflation.
• Edge wear on both sides: underinflation.
• Cupping/scalloping: worn shocks/struts or out-of-balance tires.
• Feathering/sawtooth edges: incorrect toe alignment.

Address the root cause—alignment, suspension service, proper inflation, and regular rotation—when you replace tires to avoid repeating the pattern.

Special Cases: Winter Tires, EVs, and Run-Flats

Winter tires

Winter tire performance falls off quickly below about 5/32 inch (4 mm). Many models include winter wear indicators that appear before the legal wear bars. Replace or swap out for a fresh winter set once you reach that threshold to maintain snow and ice grip.

EVs

Electric vehicles are heavier and deliver instant torque, which can accelerate wear. Rotate more frequently (about every 5,000–6,000 miles/8,000–10,000 km), choose tires with the proper load index (XL/reinforced where specified), and monitor tread more often. EV‑specific tires can balance range, noise, and durability; expect faster wear than comparable ICE vehicles if rotation is delayed.

Run-flats

Run-flat tires can be driven for a limited distance and speed after losing pressure (commonly up to 50 miles at up to 50 mph, but follow your tire’s specification). After a zero-pressure event, many run-flats cannot be safely repaired, and internal damage may be invisible from the outside—have a shop inspect the inside casing before any decision.

Replacement Best Practices

When it’s time for new rubber, a few best practices will maximize safety and tire life from day one.

• Replace in pairs or a full set; if only two, install new tires on the rear axle for stability in wet conditions.
• Match size, load index, and speed rating to the vehicle’s placard or owner’s manual; avoid mixing winter and all-season/summer tires on the same vehicle.
• Request an alignment check with new tires; correct any suspension issues.
• Service TPMS (new valve stems/seals as needed) and ensure sensors are reset.
• Break in new tires gently for the first 300–500 miles to scrub off mold release compounds.
• Re-torque lug nuts after 50–100 miles if your shop recommends it.
• Confirm proper cold tire pressure using the vehicle placard, not the sidewall max; check monthly and before long trips.
• Rotate on schedule (typically every 5,000–7,500 miles, or per the owner’s manual; more often for EVs or aggressive driving).
• Check the DOT date code on new purchases and register your tires with the manufacturer to receive recall notices.

Following these steps helps your new tires wear evenly, maintain traction, and meet their expected lifespan, saving money and improving safety.

When in Doubt, Get a Professional Inspection

If you’re unsure about wear, aging, or damage, most tire shops offer quick inspections—often at low or no cost. Ask for a tread depth report, inflation check, internal inspection for punctures, balance test, and an alignment evaluation. It’s wise to request at least an annual tire check or every 6,000–7,500 miles.

Quick Reference Checklist

Use this checklist as a fast, repeatable way to decide if your tires need replacing or attention.

• Tread: above 4/32 inch for wet safety; replace by 2/32 inch, sooner for winter use.
• Damage: no bulges, exposed cords, large cuts, or sidewall punctures.
• Age: inspect at 6 years; replace by 10 years from the DOT date.
• Wear pattern: even across the tread; no cupping/feathering.
• Performance: no new vibration, pulling, noise, or hydroplaning.
• Pressure: holds steady; no recurring TPMS warnings.
• After replacement: alignment done, TPMS serviced, proper pressure set, rotation plan in place.

Running through this list a few times a year—especially before seasonal weather changes or road trips—can catch issues early and keep you safer on the road.

Summary

Replace tires when tread is worn (2/32 inch or earlier for wet/snow), when you see structural damage, when they age out, or when driving behavior signals trouble. Regular inspections, proper inflation, timely rotations, and addressing alignment or suspension problems will extend tire life and preserve safety. When uncertain, a professional check is the quickest path to a confident decision.

What does a bad tire feel like?

A bad tire can feel like widespread vibration, a shaking steering wheel, a bumpy ride, or a distinct “pulling” to one side. You might also notice a wobbling, a bouncy feeling, or an unusual “flapping” sound, especially if the tire is flat or severely damaged. 
Here’s a breakdown of common feelings and what they indicate:

• Vibration: This is a very common sign and can be felt in the steering wheel, seat, or floor. High-frequency vibrations often indicate damage or imbalance in the tire, a problem with the suspension, or a need for alignment. 
• Wobbling or Bouncing: You might feel a bouncing or wobbling sensation at low speeds, often due to a bubble or separation within the tire’s internal belts. 
• Pulling: If you notice your car pulling to one side, it could be a flat tire or an issue with tire pressure or alignment. 
• Shaking: Persistent shaking or trembling of the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds (around 40 mph or more), often signals uneven wear. 
• Uncomfortable or Bouncy Ride: If your tires are overinflated, you’ll feel every bump in the road, and the ride will be rougher. Low tire pressure can make the car feel unstable and result in a bouncy sensation. 
• “Flapping” Sound: A loud, flapping sound might be heard with a flat or severely punctured tire. 

What to do if you experience these feelings:

• Slow Down: If you notice any of these symptoms, especially vibrations or pulling, reduce your speed. 
• Check Tire Pressure: Visually inspect your tires for low pressure. 
• Seek Professional Help: Take your vehicle to a shop for a professional tire inspection as soon as possible. 

Is the penny test for tires accurate?

The penny test is an accurate and reliable DIY method to estimate if your tire tread has worn below the legal minimum of 2/32 of an inch, but it doesn’t provide precise measurements beyond that point and isn’t as accurate as a tread depth gauge. If Lincoln’s head is fully visible when the penny is inserted into the tire’s tread groove, your tires are worn and need to be replaced immediately. However, even if the penny test passes, your tires may still have less than the recommended 4/32nds of tread for optimal safety in wet conditions, so a more precise check is beneficial.
 
How to perform the penny test

1. Find a penny: Grab a standard U.S. penny. 
2. Find a well-lit area: Make sure you can clearly see the tire tread and the penny. 
3. Insert the penny: Place the penny into a tread groove with President Lincoln’s head facing down. 
4. Check for visibility: 
   • If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tire tread depth is at or below 2/32 of an inch, which is the legal limit for wear in most areas and means it’s time to replace the tire. 
   • If the tread covers some or all of Lincoln’s head, your tires have more than 2/32 of an inch of tread remaining and are still considered safe. 

Limitations and alternatives

• Not a precise measurement: While the penny test accurately indicates the 2/32nds minimum, it doesn’t provide the exact tread depth. 
• Safety margin: The penny test only checks for the absolute minimum safe tread. For better safety, especially in wet or snowy conditions, aim for at least 4/32nds of an inch of tread. 
• The quarter test: You can use a quarter to check for 4/32nds of an inch of tread. If you can’t see the top of George Washington’s head when inserted with his head down, you have at least 4/32nds of tread, which is a safer amount. 
• Tread depth gauge: For the most precise and accurate measurement, use a dedicated tire tread depth gauge. 

What is the 3% rule for tires?

If they’re too large, they could scrape on the inside of the fender every time you make a turn. As a general rule, you want replacement tires that are within 3 percent of the diameter (height) measurement of the tires originally on your vehicle.

How do I tell if my tires need to be replaced?

You should replace your tires if the tread is worn down to the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head in the penny test, if there are visible cracks, bulges, or other damage on the tire’s sidewall, if you feel constant vibrations while driving, or if the tires are older than 6-10 years, even if they appear to have good tread. 
1. Check the Tread Depth 

• Use the Penny Test: Insert a penny into a tire groove with Lincoln’s head upside down. 
• Signs of Wear: If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tread is worn to 2/32nds of an inch or less, and the tire needs to be replaced. 
• Check Tread Wear Bars: Look for small, raised bars within the tire’s grooves. If the tread is worn down to the same level as these bars, the tire is also worn out and needs replacement. 

This video demonstrates how to use the penny test to check tire tread depth: 55sMichelinYouTube · Oct 20, 2021
2. Inspect for Damage 

• Sidewall Cracks or Bulges: Look for any cracks, cuts, or bulges on the tire’s sidewall, which indicate a weakened internal structure that could lead to a blowout. 
• Embedded Objects: Check for any objects, such as nails or glass, embedded in the tire. 
• Showing Cords: If you see the steel or fabric cords underneath the rubber, the tire is significantly damaged and needs immediate replacement. 

3. Look for Poor Traction 

• Lack of Grip: If your tires feel like they’re slipping on dry roads or if you notice poor handling, you may have insufficient tread.

4. Be Aware of Vibrations 

• Steering Wheel Shakes: A shaking or vibrating steering wheel, especially at highway speeds, can be a sign of unevenly worn or damaged tires.

5. Consider Tire Age 

• Age Degradation: Even if tires look good, they can degrade over time due to UV exposure and temperature changes. 
• Replacement Timeline: Many manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 6 to 10 years, regardless of tread wear. 

6. Check for Uneven Wear 

• Signs of Problems: Uneven wear patterns on your tires, such as more wear on one edge, can indicate issues with tire pressure, alignment, or balancing.