Tread depth and tread wear indicators
Fig. 90 Tread pattern: Wear indicator.
ꢀ Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Tread depth
Most driving situations require as much tread depth as possible and similar tread depth for the tires on
the front and rear wheels. This is especially true when driving in winter weather, at low temperatures
and under wet conditions ⇒ꢀ
.
In most countries the legally permissible minimum tread depth is 1/16 in. (1.6 mm), as measured in
tread grooves next to the wear indicators. Please be sure to obey country-specific legal requirements.
Winter tires are no longer suitable for winter operation once the tread pattern is worn down to a depth
of 3/16 in. (4.8 mm).
The tread depth of new tires can differ between tire models and manufacturers because of the
different design features and tread patterns.
Tread wear indicator (TWI) in the tire
The 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) high wear indicators are molded into the bottom of the tread grooves of the
original tires running across the treads ⇒ꢀfig. 90. Several wear indicators are evenly spaced around the
tire. Markings on the sides of the tires (for example “TWI” or symbols) show the position of the wear
indicators.
Wear indicators show when the tires are worn down. The tires must be replaced no later than when
the tread pattern is worn down to the wear indicators.
WARNING
Worn tires are dangerous and can cause loss of vehicle control including serious personal
injuries.
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Never drive a vehicle when the tread on any tire is worn down to the wear indicators,
replace them sooner.
Worn tires do not grip the road properly, especially on wet roads, increasing your risk of
“hydroplaning” and loss of control.
Worn tires reduce the ability of your vehicle to handle well in normal and difficult driving
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situations and increase braking distances and the risk of skidding.
Tire wear and damage
ꢀ Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
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