Many car owners have at least once had the idea of ​​saving money and “re-fitting” their car not with new tires, but with used ones. In addition, sellers assure that tire wear is minimal. In practice, it turns out that used tires are almost always in poor condition. However, new tires are often not ideal. From the article you will learn what the tread depth and height of a new winter tire should be.

The tread is the outer layer of a car tire that is in direct contact with the road surface. It is on this part that a special pattern is applied, consisting of volumetric elements and grooves of a certain depth and direction. Its purpose is to provide maximum grip on the road surface and effectively remove snow and moisture from the contact point between the wheels and the road surface.

It is obvious that the percentage of wear of the outer layer has a direct impact on the stability of the vehicle, its maneuverability and controllability. In addition, proper operation of the braking system is also impossible if the wheels are heavily worn.

Video “How to independently determine the tire tread height”

In this video you will learn how to determine the tread height of your tires without measuring tools.

How to measure tread depth

Regular monitoring of the height of the residual winter tread pattern, as well as timely replacement of tires before the percentage of wear reaches a critical value, allows you to minimize the risk of accidents.

There are several ways to measure the thickness of the outer layer of rubber. Thus, modern copies are equipped with built-in indicators that monitor wear: as soon as the thickness of the ornament reaches the minimum permissible value, their presence will affect the quality of car control, and the driver will understand that he must change the tires. Sometimes colored layers of rubber are used as a kind of indicator of the urgent need to replace tires - as soon as they appear on the surface of the tire, it’s time to visit a tire shop.

To more accurately measure depth, professionals use a special device - a depth gauge. But experienced drivers know that it is quite possible to do without it, having an ordinary 10-kopeck coin on hand. We insert it edgewise into the groove of the ornament and evaluate the result: if the inscription “kopecks” is completely hidden, your tire is in excellent condition; if the rubber covers only the floral pattern, you can ride on wheels, but you should prepare for an early tire change; If only the rim is hidden in the groove, change the wheels immediately.

For a more accurate picture, measurements are taken along the entire circumference of the wheel. If it turns out that the degree of tire wear is different in different places, you need to go to a service station and adjust the wheel alignment angles.

Required tread height for new tires

The required height of the pattern of the outer layer of winter tires differs depending on several factors: the type of car (passenger car, truck, passenger), its category, climatic conditions of the region, etc. Traffic rules (TRAF) clearly regulate this parameter:

"2.3.2. The height of the tire pattern must be at least:

2.3.2.1. For vehicles of category L - 0.8 mm;

2.3.2.2. For vehicles of category M1 - 1.6 mm;

2.3.2.3. For vehicles of categories N and O - 1.0 mm;

2.3.2.4. For vehicles of categories M2 and M3 - 2.0 mm;

2.3.2.5. For trailers (semi-trailers) - the same as for the tractors with which they work.

2.3.2.6. For winter tires, as well as those marked with the “M+S” sign - 4.0 mm.”

Allowable wear

Unlike summer tires, winter tires are suitable for use only for 2-3 seasons. Further, the tread pattern wears off to such an extent that the operation of the vehicle becomes dangerous. Traffic regulations put forward specific requirements for the residual depth of the pattern, depending on the type of vehicle (2018 edition of traffic regulations):

"5.1. The remaining tire tread depth (in the absence of wear indicators) is no more than:

for vehicles of category L - 0.8 mm;

for vehicles of categories N2, N3, O3, O4 - 1 mm;

for vehicles of categories M1, N1, O1, O2 - 1.6 mm;

for vehicles of categories M2, M3 - 2 mm.”

You should not skimp on your own safety and take winter tires lightly. The life and health of passengers often depends on their condition.

Be careful, no rod, no nail!

Tire treads for passenger cars are important for ensuring good adhesion of the vehicle wheels to the road surface and, as a result, achieving vehicle stability on the road. The effectiveness of this element in performing its functions depends on the size, shape and pattern of notches on the surface of automobile rubber.

In addition, the depth of the pattern (also called height) serves as an indicator of tire wear. While the tire tread width remains almost the same throughout the entire period of operation, the depth decreases along with rubber abrasion. Therefore, for work tires this indicator is called residual.

Types of tire treads for passenger cars

Why is tread wear dangerous?

When the tread depth becomes insufficient, the car begins to lose traction. This leads to impaired stability and controllability of the car, the appearance of skidding when turning and lengthening the braking distance. In addition, the risk of tire tread damage increases when overcoming even minor obstacles in traffic.

Another important function of this element of car tires is the removal of rain and snow moisture, as well as dirt. At shallow depths, the tread is not able to cope with this task, which leads to the effect of aquaplaning - loss of vehicle control when driving into an accumulation of water or snow on the road surface.

• Additional inconveniences that tread wear brings to the car owner are increased fuel consumption and increased noise produced by the vehicle when driving.

A cut is the most common tire tread damage.

Tread depth standards by law

Considering the information presented above, a logical question arises: what is the normal residual tread depth for passenger car tires? Today this indicator is enshrined in law.

The Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation on amendments to the process of admitting vehicles to operation came into force at the beginning of 2015. This document determined what the permissible tire tread height should be for all types of transport. For passenger cars, this figure should be at least 1.6 mm. Officially, this requirement is relevant for vehicles intended for a load of no more than 3.5 tons.

In addition to passenger cars, two types of trailers fall into this category: for cargo up to 0.75 tons and above this mark, but not more than 3.5 tons. The condition also applies to minibuses with no more than eight seats in addition to the driver’s seat.

By default, the permissible tread of summer tires and demi-season tires can have this depth. However, the Decree provides for a different The tread height of winter tires is 4 mm. The requirement is relevant for tires intended for snowy and icy roads, bearing a mountain peak sign or markings with the letters M and S.

Measuring tire tread depth/height

Tread depth measurement

Current penalties for insufficient tread height today are 500 rubles. It is also possible to prohibit the vehicle from being allowed into operation if the above conditions are not met. To avoid this, you need to monitor the degree of tire wear and carry out regular measurements of the depth of the relief.

In this regard, many car owners are interested in how to measure tire tread themselves. First of all, it is worth considering that modern tire models have wear indicators. They are located in the depressions of the relief and look like membranes or small bulges. When the rubber wears down to the acceptable limit, they are flush with the surface.

In cases where there are no indicators, you should use a caliper. The tool probe is inserted inside the tread until it reaches the bottom of the recess, and then the scale measurements are checked. It is worth noting that measurements must be taken on several areas of the surface, since tire wear may be uneven.

There is another, popular way to check the tread depth. For this, a coin of 10 kopecks is used. If the coin is half hidden, then you can safely continue using the tires. If only the floral ornament is hidden, the tire is close to wear, and if only the rim is hidden, it’s time to replace the tires.

Common Causes of Premature Tire Tread Wear

When the tread wear limit is reached

Modern tires are designed to last six seasons on average. That is, signs of significant wear should be detected 3-4 years after the start of use. However, there are many factors that increase tire wear. For example, when the speed increases quickly and strongly, the level of wheel abrasion increases threefold. Long journeys and driving on uneven road surfaces are also negative factors. Therefore, it is worth measuring the tread depth every season.

There are times when a driver notices that the performance of car tires has begun to deteriorate. For example, the maneuverability of the vehicle in bad weather conditions has decreased or the braking distance has increased. In such cases, you should evaluate the level of tire tread wear, because this factor affects not only the ease of control of the car, but also the safety of all passengers.

1. How to determine the degree of tread wear?

Any problems with a vehicle require prompt elimination. This statement also applies to tires that tend to wear out. The speed of this process is influenced by several factors, the main ones being excessive or insufficient pressure and emergency braking. In addition, a rapid change in tire performance properties can also be caused by disk deformation. A vehicle's wheel tread is the only part that is constantly in direct contact with the road surface. The tread depth and the quality of the rubber directly affect the level of adhesion of the tire to the road, and therefore the control accuracy (maneuverability). A part that is too worn is constantly at risk of puncture; moreover, the stability and quality of braking decrease in proportion to the amount of wear, especially in winter.

To determine the degree of wear, manufacturers of different brands of tires have come up with various wear indicators for the tread and the structure itself. This refers to a 1.6 mm thick tread block, which is often located deep in the longitudinal grooves. To determine the location of the wear level indicator on the tread, find the corresponding mark on the sidewall of the wheel. It can be presented in the form of a TWI (tread wear indicator) sign, a brand logo, a triangle or any other designation.

For example, Michelin produces tires that have a wear indicator in the form of a small Bibendum, and some other manufacturers use an intermediate indicator, and if it disappears, then the tire no longer provides optimal performance on wet surfaces.

If such an indicator is absent, then the residual height is measured in places where signs of wear are most noticeable. There are many ways that allow the car owner to control this indicator. In addition to the already mentioned wear indicator, these include a profile depth indicator and a change in tire color. It is necessary to understand that regularly inspecting the wheels of your car for damage or severe tire wear can protect you from serious troubles, so this action should become a habit for every motorist.

A digital tire wear indicator is also often used. This method allows you to determine the degree of abrasion using a system of numbers that is placed on the protector. They indicate the depth of the rubber and as it wears, they begin to wear off. This method is often used by companies such as Nokian or Matador. The color inspection method is another way to determine the wear level of your tire. A prototype of a tire that changes color when worn was created by two Chinese designers. However, in practice such an invention is extremely rare.

The simplest and most accessible way to determine the degree of tread wear is to use a special profile depth gauge.

This tool allows you to obtain an accurate tire profile depth value, which is not possible using other methods described. You can buy such a device at almost any auto center, and for a fairly low fee. With its help, the car owner can independently measure the depth of the grooves in different places on the tire tread.

European car enthusiasts determine the degree of wear using a 1 euro coin. It is placed in the most worn part of the tread, and if the golden circle is completely closed, then the tire will still serve you, otherwise (the golden part of the coin is clearly visible) - it’s time to change the car’s shoes. In Russia, tire wear is determined by a 2-ruble coin, which is inserted into the tread with the eagle's head down. If the top of the tire is visible above the surface of the tire, then the tire is still suitable.

2. What is the acceptable tread wear?

When the tread wear limit is reached or if there is any damage (tears, cuts, swelling, etc.), the tire is considered to have completely exhausted its service life and requires immediate replacement.

However, if the vehicle is used correctly, the service life of the tires will be determined only by the wear rate of their tread. Thus, for trucks the maximum residual tread height is 1 mm, for buses – 2 mm, and for cars – 1.6 mm. The latest value was established in Europe in 1992 and was considered a uniform wear rate for all summer tires.

Today, this requirement continues to apply, with the exception of light wheels, the minimum tread height of which is 1 mm. However, for wide-profile and summer tires this norm is too low, because such a profile depth will contribute to poor vehicle handling on wet roads.

To be careful, summer tires must be replaced when the residual profile depth has reached 2 mm, and in wide-profile tires - 3 mm.

After some time, the tire life decreases, while the percentage of wear increases more and more. If the bead is damaged during wheel installation, the percentage of tire wear may increase by up to 10%. Also, the level of wear increases due to crumbling, chipping and cracking, which, in turn, lead to surface abrasion of up to 25%.

There are also cases when the tread wears out 100%. This situation is typical for tires with carcass delamination.

To the technical side of wear and tear, the percentage of natural aging should also be added. So, over three years of active use, a tire can lose up to 10% of its service life, and when using a tire for more than five years, this value can reach 50%.

If you want your movement on the roads to be as comfortable and safe as possible, then you need to monitor the condition of the tires and periodically update them. In cases where summer is approaching, you should think about purchasing summer tires, which suppliers will be happy to help you choose. The fact is that in the field of selling this type of product there are always many nuances: from the manufacturer to the technical characteristics of a particular tire. Therefore, for each car you need to choose only the tire model that is ideal for it: one for cars, and another for SUVs.

With the onset of cold weather, the vehicle's footwear must be changed, because winter tires are a guarantee of safe driving on snowy and icy roads. However, it is still necessary to select it correctly and install it on the vehicle. High-quality tires for winter conditions guarantee reliable grip on the road surface, minimal braking distance and provide excellent handling and stability of the vehicle. These products are made of heat-resistant and wear-resistant rubber, which allows them to be used in extreme conditions.

Every car owner knows that the wheel is one of the most important components of the car. A vehicle wheel is a disk and a tire. Thanks to the force of friction, adhesion to the road surface and movement of the car occur. The first tires were created to reduce the effort required to move loads. Today they are responsible for vehicle handling and road safety. The characteristics of tires depend on the chemical composition and tread pattern.

The main element in a tire is rubber. Carbon black, silicic acid, sulfur and other components are added to it to give the tires the desired characteristics. The goal of manufacturers is to achieve maximum resistance to external influences, such as friction and elevated temperature.

Tire manufacturers develop special treads for different operating conditions. Depending on their purpose, tires are divided into:

• road - designed for driving on hard road surfaces;
• mud - for extreme conditions (soil, mud);
• universal – used for all types of road surfaces.

Numerous grooves and longitudinal furrows in the tread of summer tires are designed to drain water. The behavior of the car on the road depends on the type of pattern. Better handling is provided by the asymmetry and directionality of the tread, but due to the complexity of production, such tires are more expensive. In addition, they are noisier.

2 Tread depth - what should it be?

Over time, the tire wears out and the properties provided by the manufacturer are lost. And the shallower the tread depth becomes, the more changes for the worse are felt.

There is such a thing as critical tire wear, when it cannot provide normal traction and its use becomes unsafe. The minimum tread height for summer tires is specified in the traffic regulations. For passenger car tiresit is equal to 1.6 mm, and for buses - 2 mm. If the balance is less, operation of the vehicle is prohibited. Let's find out why.

When the tread depth becomes shallower, the tire begins to shed water less well. As a result, aquaplaning occurs - partial or even complete loss of traction and, as a result, control. Since as tire wear increases, the surface of its contact with the road surface decreases, it is more difficult for the car to brake even on a dry surface. All the troubles become even more noticeable at high speeds.

To ensure safe travel, the condition of your tires must be checked periodically. The remaining tread depth can be determined in three ways:

1. A caliper is the most accurate way to measure. To do this, you need to pull out the depth gauge of the device, lower it to the lowest point and lower the bar all the way to the top point of the tread. According to the readings on the scale, the remaining rubber is determined.
2. With a coin and a ruler. To take the measurement, you need to insert a coin into the recess and mark the height of the tread with a marker. Now, using a ruler, you can find out the condition of the rubber.
3. PO indicators. Almost all manufacturers apply various marks that allow you to monitor the degree of tire wear.

With the first and second control methods, measurements are taken in several places, since wear is uneven.

As for tags, they are made of several types:

• volumetric;
• digital;
• drawings.

The volumetric marks are usually ridges, the height of which will serve as a signal that the tires should be changed.

Digital marks are applied in the form of numbers - from 2 to the tread height of the new tire.

Summer tires are sometimes marked with patterns in the form of drops, the disappearance of which signals the danger of aquaplaning.

3 Causes of premature wear

The wear rate of a tire is affected not only by its chemical composition, but also by some other factors. The following can lead to premature wear of a tire:

1. The pressure is higher or lower than the specified value. At normal tire pressure, the tread surface is completely adjacent to the road surface. When the pressure is lower than necessary, the rubber wears out at the edges. If the wheels are overinflated, wear occurs in the middle of the tread.
2. Incorrect wheel alignment. In this case, the rubber is “eaten” along the outer or inner edge of the wheel, depending on which direction it is tilted.

In both cases, the load is not distributed evenly, but over certain areas of the wheel. Because of this, the rubber wears down to zero in one place, while in another the wear remains acceptable.

4 Shelf life of wheels

In addition to the acceptable wear of tires, the natural aging of rubber should be taken into account. Over time, it loses elasticity and becomes hard. Sometimes cracks appear on the surface of the tire, which can cause air leakage in the future. There are even cases when a tire explodes.

No manufacturer provides information on how many years a tire can be used. But each tire has a mark indicating the year and week of production. You need to remember this point when buying new tires. There is no need to take risks; it is better to opt for fresh tires.

When purchasing used wheels, you should pay attention to the following points:

• degree of wear;
• uniform wear;
• year of issue;
• visual condition (cracks, delamination).

In addition to the described methods for determining the need to replace old tires with new ones, you should also rely on your own feelings. If your car starts to brake worse, has insufficient road grip, or loses control on a wet road, then you shouldn’t hesitate to replace the tires.

It is worth noting that the tread depth of summer tires is less than that of winter and all-season tires. This is due to the fact that in the cold season the wheels need additional traction with the road surface; accordingly, the height of the pattern is determined by the operating conditions of the products.

The goal of the milestones, without exception of tires, is maximum grip on the road surface. In summer, the ambient temperature is high, so wheel manufacturers use harsh rubber compounds. In the summer it does not wear out so much, but in the cold season it simply loses its properties, which is why changing tires in the autumn-winter period becomes necessary. This rule is even enshrined in law.

The second difference between summer wheels is their pattern, which does not necessarily have to be very prominent, but at the same time makes it possible to avoid the effect of aquaplaning on wet asphalt. In most cases, this effect can be avoided by using longitudinal stripes in the design. Along with fairly wide treads, there are practically no sipes.


Along with such an indicator as the tread depth of new summer tires, it is necessary to take into account the fact that the pattern itself can be classic symmetrical, directional and asymmetrical. The first option is suitable for normal driving on almost any type of road surface. The second option is more suitable for driving on wet asphalt, as it helps reduce the effect of aquaplaning. And the third option is ideal for high-speed driving.

The tread depth of new summer tires is usually around 6-8 mm, while some models may have a fairly large radius, such as SUVs. For such cars, the height sometimes reaches 17mm to ensure maximum traction even where there are absolutely no conditions for normal vehicle movement.

According to the law, the permissible tread depth of summer tires is 1.6 mm. In general, this parameter has little effect on the adhesion of the tire to the road surface, but it is very important in order to maintain directional stability of the car on wet asphalt. That is why, in most cases, the height of the pattern below 2-3 mm no longer guarantees the safe movement of the car at high speeds in weather when there is a lot of precipitation.


Even if the tread is worn down by 50%, you can still drive for a long time on tires designed for the hot season. But again, it all depends on the driving style and operating conditions of the car. It is worth noting that problems for drivers arise when they bring the wheels to a critical state. The liquid is poorly removed from the contacted spot, and this entails a lot of unpleasant consequences.

Remaining tread depth of summer tires

But how can you assess whether the remaining tread depth of summer tires is already minimal for a specific car model? First of all, it is important to feel the car during the trip. If on wet asphalt, instead of smooth movement, you feel a hard blow, and driving the car becomes difficult, then you should think about buying new wheels.

When buying used tires, it is quite difficult to calculate the actual wear of the pattern. Typically, sellers use a universal formula, where the remainder of the height is divided by its initial indicators. But real wear differs significantly from the results that can be obtained using this formula. Therefore, it is better to use other calculations.

In them, wear is determined by several quantities at once, including the height of the pattern of the new product, the actual height measured on two tires installed on one axle, and the minimum permissible height. But all these calculations are related to the fact that the buyer wants to determine the actual wear of the tires, and not the seller’s obligation to maintain these indicators within normal limits.

And if, nevertheless, the buyer wants to choose the best used tires with a normal degree of wear, he should have an idea of ​​​​how to measure the height of the pattern. Height is measured at at least 12 different points on the four sides of the wheel. Measurements are carried out with a special meter in the center of the slope and along its side parts.

You can buy tires after measurements when the tread height in the center is higher or the wear is the same across the entire width and on two wheels that will be installed on the same axle. In all other cases, when the pattern is worn unevenly around the circumference, only the upper part of the sidewall, different wear on a pair of wheels, or uneven wear across the width of one wheel - in such cases you should not buy used tires.