What is a new tire's tread depth? Like 16/32 or something?

Question

What is a new tire's tread depth? Like 16/32 or something?

Answer 1

There is no rule...all tires have different depths...look at some truck tires or snow tires and most have more than 1/2"..more like 3/4" or more....

Answer 2

Average new tires used on cars typically start with 10/32" to 11/32" of original tread depth.

Dedicated winter tires and light truck tires typically are deeper (for light truck tires, how much deeper depends on the tire's tread type…Highway Rib, Highway All Season, Off Road All Terrain or Off Road Maximum Traction).

Answer 3

Tread Depth will vary depending on the size and application of the tire in question.

Low profile tires may have as little as 5/32 of tread when new.  Tires for a tractor (18 wheeler) will have almost a full inch of tread (31/32) on the drive tires.  

You not only have to look at tread depth, but tread pattern and the compound rating of the rubber used to make the tire.  

Your best bet to get the information you seek is go to a tire store and pick someone's brain.  Have them explain tread depth, patterns, speed rating and compounds to you.  It will help you make an educated decision about which tire to purchase for your vehicle.

Hope this helps....

Answer 4

what i do is use the Penny Method. Stick a penny inthe tread and if its more then 25% they are fine  on a standard car tire . less on a low profile and More then 1/2 on truck.