The 1-Second Tire Test That Could Save Your Life

Phones may not be the number one culprit when it comes to safe driving.

Worn out car tire treadPhoto: Shutterstock

What is the tread test?

You can help prevent tire-related accidents, in your own car and your teenager’s vehicle too, by doing a one-second test on the tires. The coin tread test will quickly show you how good—or poor—the tread on your tires is, and help you know if it’s time to head to the mechanic.

How often should you do the tread test?

It is recommended that you check the tread on your tires monthly. Thankfully, because the coin tread test is self-administered, takes but a moment, and doesn’t cost anything, there is no excuse for ever driving with unsafe tires again.

Let Queen Elizabeth’s head be your guide

With just a nickel between your thumb and pointer finger, angle Queen Elizabeth upside down, facing down toward the ground. Proceed to stick the nickel into various places in the tread across all your tires. If you can see the top of the Queen’s crown, it’s time to get a brand-new set of tires.

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Reader's Digest
Originally Published on Reader's Digest