The Capital Region just made it through their first big snowstorm of the winter season, but we have a feeling it won’t be the last of the snow this season. In fact, we have a feeling that this is really just the beginning of the winter season. That means if you had trouble getting through the snow this time you better get your vehicle ready for whatever else might be thrown at us.

All service is important when it comes to keeping your vehicle running properly, but making sure you have tires that are fresh and have a thick tread, will be your lifesaver this winter. You might hear people talk about how their vehicle is great in the snow, but what it really comes down to is their tires. If you don’t have the proper tires on your vehicle or your tires are worn out and older you might find yourself slipping and sliding all over the place.

If you’re unsure what tire tread is, it is the deep lines that run throughout your tires. The thinker your tire’s tread is the better grip your tires will have, aka not as much slipping and sliding. A lot of people don’t realize that their tires need to be changed because they’re worn out. If you’re not sure when is the right time to change your tires I have a very simple test that will tell you just that. The penny test will only take a few seconds and save you the hassle of having to bring it into the shop to check. For more information about the penny test, check it out below!

The Penny Test

• The idea of the penny test is to check whether you’ve hit the 2/32” threshold
• Place a penny between the tread ribs on your tire.
• Turn the penny so that Lincoln’s head points down into the tread.
• See if the top of his head disappears between the ribs. If it does, your tread is still above 2/32”
• If you can see his entire head, it may be time to replace the tire because your tread is no longer deep enough.

Helpful Numbers To Remember:

4/32” or deeper = Good depth

3/32” = Replace tires soon

2/32” or less = Replace tires now