Snap a photo of each tire with a coin in the tread. We'll estimate how much tread is left.
How it works
Pick the coin you have. A penny or a quarter works.
Put the coin upside down (head down) in the deepest main groove of the tire, so you can see the coin's head.
Take a close, well-lit photo showing the coin and the tread around it. Do this for each tire.
Tip: use daylight, hold the phone about 6 inches away, and keep the coin and a few grooves in frame. One tire is fine; four gives the full picture.
Front left
No photo yet
Front right
No photo yet
Rear left
No photo yet
Rear right
No photo yet
Your photos are sent to an AI service for analysis and are not saved by Tread4Life. You can check just one tire or all four.
Tire tread check: common questions
How do I check tire tread with a quarter?
Place a quarter upside down (Washington's head down) in the deepest main groove. If the tread covers part of his head, you have more than 4/32" left. If the top of his head is fully visible, the tread is at 4/32" or less and it is time to plan for new tires.
How do I check tire tread with a penny?
Place a penny with Lincoln's head upside down in the groove. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is at or below 2/32", the legal minimum in most states, and the tire should be replaced now.
How much tread should a tire have?
New tires start around 10/32" to 11/32". Replace at 2/32" at the latest. Wet braking and snow traction drop noticeably below 4/32", so many drivers replace around 4/32".
Is the Tread Check accurate?
It is an estimate from photos, not a measurement. Uneven wear or damage can be hidden in a photo, so have a tire shop inspect your tires if you are unsure.
Are my photos saved?
No. Photos are sent to an AI service for analysis and are not saved by Tread4Life.
Is it free?
Yes. The Tread Check is free and needs no account.