Tire thread left on a Matrix

[Grolar]

What's a reasonable tire thread left? I used the coin trick on my Matrix (215/55 17) and the dephth is just enough to reach the "head" of FDR on a dime, ie 1 millimeter tops. It doesn't rain much here in CA but is in your opinion a tire change overdue?

 

[WES1977]

when you get scared to drive it in the rain. I'm sure it depends on the brand and style.

 

[Grolar]

Original tires from 3 years ago, Bridgestone Potenza. The trick is that is NEVER rains here and I only commute 5 miles a day on straight surface streets so I can't really notice any difference.

 

[WES1977]

oh actually most tires have wear marks
it's a little hump between a few treads.

 

[Grolar]

Yep, and the thread on mine is still thicker than that. But I once read that those marks aren't realistic and that on somewhat wide tires, such as 215/55s, you'd be better off replacing them sooner than when the mark is obvious. I'm hauling two young kids and don't want to put anyone at risk, but OTOH those tires are expensive and I wouldn't object driving them a little bit more, as long as everybody's safe.

 

[WES1977]

are you worried about the tire blowing out or not having enough traction?

 

[Grolar]

Casual commuting isn't an issue. I just worry that they could fail or not respond like I would expect in emergency situations, ie emergency braking or lane shifting on a freeway.

 

[Texx]

You have kids. Buy the tires.

 

[murf]

Legally worn out when it gets to the wear indicators at 2/32ns of [STRIKE]thread[/STRIKE] er, tread.

I agree with above poster. Tires and brakes are 2 things never to jack with - first line of safety.

 

[eurotek88]

2/32nds fails VA inspection but still good enough to drive on dont chance it though!