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In the penny test, what means it is time to replace your tires?

You can see the top of Lincoln's head.

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  1. You can see the top of Lincoln's head ✔
  2. Lincoln's head is half covered
  3. You can see Lincoln's whole face

Why: Put a penny in a tread groove with Lincoln's head pointing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tread is worn to about 2/32 of an inch and it is time to replace.

Huh, didn't know that: NHTSA says tires are not safe when tread is worn to 2/32 of an inch.

The dad joke
My tires are so worn that a penny test was a waste of a perfectly good penny.
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References

Answer: You can see the top of Lincoln's head. Put a penny in a tread groove with Lincoln's head pointing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tread is worn to about 2/32 of an inch and it is time to replace.

  1. NHTSA: Tires www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/tires
    If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, replace your tires.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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