Proper tire maintenance plays a big role in keeping your Mazda vehicle safe and performing at its best, and one of the easiest checks you can do at home is the penny test with tires. This simple method can help you determine if it’s time to replace your tires and avoid dangerous tread wear.
How the Penny Test Works
Take a standard penny and insert it into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is below 2/32"—the legal limit—and it's time to replace your tires immediately.
Why Tread Depth Matters
Tires with insufficient tread have reduced grip on wet or slippery roads, increasing your stopping distance and the risk of hydroplaning. For drivers who love precision handling, tire quality is crucial to maintaining the responsive feel you expect.
When to Test Your Tires
Check your tires monthly or before long road trips. Be sure to test across multiple points around each tire to account for uneven wear, especially in front-wheel-drive models or vehicles that haven’t been rotated regularly.
Other Signs It’s Time to Replace MAZDA Tires
Beyond tread depth, look for cracking sidewalls, visible cords, or consistent air loss. These are all indicators that your car’s tires may be past their prime.
MAZDA Tire Expertise at Tumminia Mazda
If your penny test reveals worn tread, if a visual inspection unearths sidewall damage, or if you have a persistent slow leak (or, for that matter, you’re simply unsure what to look for), bring your vehicle to Tumminia Mazda. Our team can inspect your tires, recommend replacements, and keep your car gripping the road like new. Your safety depends on it!
