Motor Vehicles
Chapter 296-865, WAC
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Effective
Date: 10/01/05 |
Contents Helpful
Tools Index Download
| Chapter
296-865 WAC
Helpful Tool: Determining Tire Safety
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 For
printing
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Motor Vehicle Equipment, WAC
296-865-20015, requires you to make sure tires worn beyond
the point of safety are not used.
The tire tread provides the gripping action
and traction that prevent your vehicle from slipping or sliding,
especially when the road is wet or icy.
In general, tires with tread that is worn
down to 1/16 of an inch aren't safe and should be replaced.
The following provides 2 methods you can
use to tell if your tires are worn beyond the point of safety.
Treadwear Indicators
Tires have built-in treadwear indicators
that let you know when it's time to replace your tires. These
indicators are raised sections spaced intermittently in the bottom
of the tread grooves.
When they appear "even" with the
outside of the tread, it's time to replace your tires.
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| Unsafe Tire |
Safe Tire |
Penny Method
Another method for checking tread depth is
to place a penny in the tread with Lincoln 's head upside down
and facing you.
If you can see the top of Lincoln 's head,
the tires have been worn beyond the point of safety and need to
be replaced.
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| Unsafe Tire |
Safe Tire |
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Note:
- Treadwear is not
the only indication of tire safety. You may also see signs
of tire deterioration from sunlight and weather exposure.
These signs may include cracking and discoloration.
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