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Tire Tread & Wear Checklist

Ensure your safety and vehicle performance with this comprehensive tire tread, wear pattern, and sidewall damage inspection checklist for all vehicle types.

Car Maintenance Checklists·carschecklist.com/checklist/tire-tread-and-wear-checklist
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ItemPriorityWhoTimeWhat to check (Pass/Fail)If failed (Next step)
Tire Pressure (All 4)RequiredDIY5 minMatches door-jamb PSIInflate to spec
Spare Tire PressureRequiredDIY2 minMatches sidewall PSIInflate immediately
Tread Depth (Center)RequiredDIY5 minAt least 4/32" recommendedReplace tire if < 2/32"
Outer Edge WearRecommendedDIY3 minEven with center treadCheck alignment/camber
Inner Edge WearRecommendedDIY3 minEven with center treadCheck suspension/alignment
Sidewall Bulges/BubblesRequiredDIY2 minNo visible protrusionsReplace tire immediately
Sidewall Cuts/GougesRequiredDIY2 minNo exposed cords/deep cutsProfessional inspection
Dry Rot/CrackingRecommendedDIY2 minNo spiderweb crackingReplace if severe/old
Valve Stem CapsOptionalDIY1 minAll present and tightReplace missing caps
Valve Stem LeaksRecommendedDIY2 minNo audible hissingReplace valve core/stem
Wheel Rim DentsRecommendedDIY3 minNo bends in metal lipRepair or replace rim
Lug Nut PresenceRequiredDIY1 minAll nuts present/tightTighten or replace
Cupping/ScallopingRecommendedDIY4 minSmooth tread surfaceCheck shocks/struts
Center Wear OnlyRecommendedDIY2 minEven across widthLower tire pressure
Dual Edge WearRecommendedDIY2 minEven across widthIncrease tire pressure
Embedded ObjectsRequiredDIY5 minNo nails, screws, rocksPatch or replace
TPMS Warning LightRequiredDIY1 minLight is OFF on dashScan for sensor failure
Tire Age (DOT Code)RecommendedDIY2 minUnder 6-10 years oldReplace if aged out
Vibration at SpeedRecommendedShop15 minSmooth ride at 60mphBalance wheels/tires
Pulling to One SideRecommendedShop15 minVehicle tracks straightPerform 4-wheel alignment

Use this table as a guide during your monthly walk-around. Start at the driver's front tire and move clockwise around the vehicle to ensure no wheel is missed. Mark each item as 'Pass' only if it meets the criteria exactly.

If you identify multiple wear patterns (such as cupping and edge wear), it often indicates a combination of suspension wear and alignment issues. Address these promptly to avoid premature tire failure.