A 3-minute lesson from the Alaska course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Tire problems and neglected maintenance cause crashes, especially among new drivers. A few quick checks at least once a month keep your car safe and save money.
12%
Share of crashes among inexperienced drivers that are tire related
Penny test: put a penny, Lincoln's head first, into the deepest-looking tread groove. If you can see all of his head, your tires are too worn. Don't drive on them; replace them.
If the oil film doesn't reach the dipstick markings, add oil. If coolant is below the minimum fill line, add the coolant/water mix your manual specifies.
Proper tire pressure is safer, extends tire life, and can give up to a 3% fuel benefit per tank. Rotating tires can add up to 10,000 miles of tire life.
You slide a penny into your tread and can see the top of Lincoln's head. Your tread is under 2/32 inch. The tires are worn out and need replacing before you drive in rain or snow.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
What is the minimum tire tread depth, according to the handbook?
4/32 inch
1/32 inch
6/32 inch
2/32 inch
Answer: 2/32 inch
Tires must have at least 2/32 inch of tread depth.