Tire wear

How to Check the Wear of Your Winter Tires in 5 Steps

Winter tires play a crucial role in keeping you safe on the road during the cold and snowy months. To ensure that your winter tires are in good condition and ready to tackle the winter challenges, it’s essential to check their wear regularly. In this article, we’ll guide you through five simple steps to check the wear of your winter tires effectively.

1. Inspect Tread Depth

The tread depth of your winter tires is one of the most critical indicators of their wear. Winter tires are designed with deeper tread patterns to provide better traction on snow and ice. Use a tire tread depth gauge, which you can easily find at any automotive store, to measure the tread depth.

Place the gauge into the tread grooves and measure the depth. New winter tires typically have a tread depth of around 6 to 7 millimeters. If the tread depth is below 4 millimeters, it’s time to replace your tires, as they will significantly lose their grip on snowy and icy roads.

2. Check for Uneven Wear

Uneven tire wear can be a sign of alignment or suspension issues. Examine the tread of each tire for signs of uneven wear. Smooth areas in the center of the tread might indicate overinflation, while excessive wear on the edges could result from underinflation. If you notice uneven wear, it’s advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an alignment check or suspension inspection.

3. Look for Cuts and Cracks

Inspect the tire surface closely for any visible cuts, cracks, or damage. Winter tires endure harsh conditions, including ice, snow, and gravel, which can lead to tire damage. Cuts and cracks weaken the tire’s structure, making it less reliable on the road. If you spot any damage, replace the damaged tire as soon as possible.

4. Check the Manufacturing Date

Tires have a limited lifespan, even if they are rarely used. Look for the manufacturing date on the tire’s sidewall. It is usually indicated as a four-digit code, showing the week and year of manufacture. Winter tires tend to lose their effectiveness after about six years, even if they appear to be in good condition. If your tires are more than six years old, seriously consider replacing them, even if they seem fine.

5. Monitor Air Pressure

Proper air pressure is essential to ensure even tire wear and optimal performance on snowy and icy roads. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure of each of your winter tires. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, which is often found in your vehicle’s manual or on a label inside the driver’s door.

And don’t hesitate to drop by one of our workshops. ICIPneu Touchette has a team ready to help you make the right choice. Our experts know their products inside and out, and can tell you whether your tires comply with Transport Québec regulations and are safe for winter driving.