Tire Pressure and Tread: A Plain-English Guide
A short guide to tire checks, built on NHTSA guidance.
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Tires are the only part of the car touching the road. NHTSA reports 511 deaths in tire-related crashes in 2024. A five-minute check each month covers most of what you can do at home.
Check pressure monthly, when cold
NHTSA advises checking pressure at least once a month and before long trips, including the spare. Check when the tires are cold, meaning the car has not been driven for about three hours.
Use the door label, not the sidewall
The right pressure for your car is on a label on the driver’s door frame and in the owner’s manual. The number molded into the tire is the maximum that tire can hold.
Correct inflation pays off too. NHTSA estimates it can save up to 11 cents a gallon and add up to 4,700 miles of tire life.
Know what TPMS does
Cars from model year 2008 on have a tire pressure monitoring system that warns when a tire is badly underinflated. It is a warning light, so keep using a gauge each month.
Check tread with a penny
NHTSA says to replace tires at 2/32 of an inch of tread. For the penny test, put a penny head-first into a groove. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, the tread is worn out.
Rotate and watch tire age
NHTSA suggests rotating tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, or as your vehicle maker recommends. Tires age even when unused, and many makers suggest replacing them after 6 to 10 years. The last four digits of the Tire Identification Number give the week and year the tire was made.
Next steps
Frequently asked questions
Should I inflate to the number on the tire?
No. NHTSA says the number on the sidewall is the tire's maximum. Use the pressure on the label on the driver's door frame or in the owner's manual.
How often should I check tire pressure?
NHTSA says at least once a month and before long trips, when the tires are cold, including the spare.
When do tires need replacing?
NHTSA says tires need replacing when tread reaches 2/32 of an inch. Many makers also give an age limit, often 6 to 10 years. Check your tire and vehicle maker's guidance.
