Curious about how to check tire tread depth? There’s no real mystery. Once you’ve learned the recommended tire tread depth and memorized the steps in the penny test, there won’t be anything that can slow you down around Decatur and Urbana — just remember to keep your vehicle at the recommended tire pressure, too.
When you first pick up a set of new tires, your tire tread depth will most likely fall between 10/32 and 11/32 of an inch, or just about ⅓ of an inch, if you don’t mind approximating. Specialized tires, such as winter tires, will likely have a different depth, and some heavier vehicles may include tires with a little something extra.
If you check your tire tread, and you find that the depth is 2/32 of an inch or less, you’ll need to have that tire replaced as soon as possible. That’s according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, which recognizes that properly maintained and inflated tires have an enormous impact on vehicle performance.
Our friends and neighbors often call us asking, “How do I check tire tread wear without specialized equipment?” and so the penny test is one of our favorite tricks to share! It really couldn’t be easier:
Although you can use a simple ruler to check your tread depth, a 12-inch ruler might have trouble slipping between your tire and the wheel well.
As we alluded to above, tires with the right amount of tread are simply better suited to power your Normal drives! In the first place, tires that are worn out are far more likely to flatten or burst on one of your daily drives, but you can easily avoid these scary moments by being proactive.
Drivers in the area may not realize that properly cared for tires will also help you burn less fuel and stay safer in inclement weather! You’ll also reduce brake wear and minimize the likelihood of misalignment. A smoother ride is just icing on the cake.
Even if you check your tire tread regularly, you’ll need to replace your tires eventually. When that day comes, it’s easy to schedule service or get the help you need with the BMW of Bloomington service department. We can also inspect your tires for wear and tear each time to bring your BMW in for maintenance–just don’t forget to check our rotating Bloomington parts and service specials!
Now that you’ve learned how to check tire tread depth at home, you may want to find out how to update BMW software, how to jumpstart a BMW, or learn more about the benefits of genuine BMW OEM parts. Get the facts with BMW of Bloomington.
3 years prepaid for $249, starting at 60 months or 60,000 miles.
Visit mygarage.bmwusa.com to purchase online or see your BMW Service Advisor for eligibility requirements and to enroll.
3 years prepaid for $249, starting at 60 months or 60,000 miles.
Visit mygarage.bmwusa.com to purchase online or see your BMW Service Advisor for eligibility requirements and to enroll.
Receive a $150 Prepaid Mastercard® by mail with the purchase of four eligible tires.
Offer valid July 10-24, 2026.
Additional terms and conditions: $150 Prepaid Mastercard® with purchase of four eligible Bridgestone, Continental, or Pirelli tires. Contact center for details regarding eligible tires. Submit claim online at www.tireoffers-center.com with offer code 2026-939B or mail claim form and a copy of your invoice to receive a Prepaid Mastercard in the amount of $150 on valid purchases made between July 10–24, 2026. Invoices must clearly indicate tire brand and part number; please circle or highlight this information. Limit one mail-in offer per qualifying purchase. Only two rebates per household. Offer available only at participating US BMW centers. Offer valid for US residents only. Completed rebate form must be postmarked or submitted online no later than 8/7/26 and received no later than 8/24/26. Any submissions received after 8/24/26, will not be honored, acknowledged, or returned. BMW or its authorized centers or tire manufacturers are not responsible for noncomplying rebate claim submissions or for electronic data submission errors, lost, late, illegible, postage-due, or undeliverable mail. Online claims will receive a confirmation of submission; please retain this confirmation. Make copies for your records. Void where taxed, restricted, or prohibited by law. All decisions made by the sponsor (or its authorized representatives) relating to the validity of any submissions are final and binding. This promotion is subject to all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Rebate paid in the form of a Prepaid Mastercard. Card will be sent to customer’s provided address within 8–10 weeks after receipt of this completed rebate form and copy of original invoice. See authorized BMW center about tire manufacturer’s limited warranty. Images may be computer-generated.
Card/Virtual card is issued by Pathward®, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated. No cash access or recurring payments. Card can be used where Debit Mastercard is accepted. Virtual card can be used where Debit Mastercard is accepted online, for phone/mail orders or in stores that accept mobile wallet. Card/Virtual card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will forfeit after the valid thru date. Terms and conditions apply.
© 2026 BMW Tire Center
Receive a $150 Prepaid Mastercard® by mail with the purchase of four eligible tires.
Offer valid July 10-24, 2026.
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