The minimum tread depth for a tire to avoid being bald is what?

The minimum tread depth for a tire to avoid being bald is what?

• A. Less than 0/32 inch
• B. Less than 2/32 inch
• C. Less than 4/32 inch
• D. Less than 6/32 inch

Answer: (B)

Two thirty-seconds of an inch is the minimum tread depth that keeps a tire from being considered bald. This is the legal threshold in New Hampshire, so once tread wears down to 2/32 inch (which is 1/16 inch) or less, the tire is legally and practically unsafe and should be replaced. Tires with more tread—such as 4/32 or 6/32—offer better grip, especially in wet conditions, but the question asks for the minimum needed to avoid baldness, which is 2/32 inch. Use a tread gauge or the penny test to check regularly.

Two thirty-seconds of an inch is the minimum tread depth that keeps a tire from being considered bald. This is the legal threshold in New Hampshire, so once tread wears down to 2/32 inch (which is 1/16 inch) or less, the tire is legally and practically unsafe and should be replaced. Tires with more tread—such as 4/32 or 6/32—offer better grip, especially in wet conditions, but the question asks for the minimum needed to avoid baldness, which is 2/32 inch. Use a tread gauge or the penny test to check regularly.