Many car accessories and tools are created to ease people’s lives. The Tire Tread Depth Gauge is no different. You can tell if your tires are reaching the end of their lifespan with a quick and simple measurement, which is very important for your personal safety.
Some of you might say that using the old school coin technique is more convenient, but we at DIY Auto Service strongly disagree. Without paying a fortune, you can have a highly accurate tool that will fix the problem immediately.
Using a gauge that reads into the smallest details which are smaller than an inch is the standard and more accurate way of determining the remaining tread depth.
Without further ado, let’s look at the best tire tread depth gauges available on the market!
Best Tire Tread Depth Gauge Models
1. Milton S-448 Tire Tread Depth Gauge
A classic American tool that gets the job done very quickly.
The Milton S-448 is a Cool silver looking gadget that isn’t like the other sophisticated tread depth gauges that require batteries; all you have to do is insert it between the tread blocks on the flat surface of your tire, and simply examine the readings to determine the condition of your tires.
Easy to read and holds the information when you remove it from the tread.
Features a thin aluminum indicator bar that monitors tread depth accurately in 1/32″ lines ranging from 0 to 32.
It’s practicality and ability to work on narrow places comes in handy. All in all this is a perfect car gadget that every car owner should have.
One thing you should keep in mind is washing your hands after every single usage of this tool as it is made out of lead.
2. VanFn Tire Tread Depth Gauge
The VanFn Tire Tread Depth Gauge will give you peace of mind knowing that your tires are at the right level of tread before driving in wet, icy or snowy conditions.
This compact gauge can fit into any glove compartment and can be used on any vehicle. It is 100% accurate and offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
3. TOCOLES Tire Gauge Pencil
This Tire Gauge Pencil is a good assistant to you not only when you check your tire tread depth because it also comes with the function to check your tire pressure!
This multifunctional tool is mechanical so it does not need any battery, and it has a high durability to work perfectly.
Easy to read, even for old eyes, compatible to be used for any car, motorcycle or truck etc.
4. Outus 2 Pack Color Tyre Tread Depth Gauge
Beginner-friendly tool that without a doubt deserves to be in our top 10 list. This is a pocket-sized gauge with metal pocket clip. You can carry it with you anywhere you go to test the tread depth of tires.
With 2 pack tire tread depth gauges, you can carry one in your toolset on the go, and the other one at home. Different colors coded adds to your simplicity and convenience.
The markings are fairly crisp and easy to read. The measurement is done in 32nds, which European users might find quite confusing as it does not provide reading in centimetres.
5. CZC AUTO Digital Tire Pressure Gauge and tire tread depth
CZC Auto Tire Pressure & Tire Tread Depth Gauge is an all in one all-in-one tool that measures tire pressure and tread depth. The nozzle fits various valve stems on cars, trucks, motorcycles and bicycles.
With this lightweight and multifunctional tool, driving safety can be improved effectively and efficiently.
The back cover is removable for replacing the battery very easily. Its large LCD screen displays both tire depth and air pressure clearly, even in the dark.
Easy operation, high accuracy, and quality guarantee are the characteristics of this brand.
6. Steelman Color Coded Tread Depth Gauge
Unlike some of the other models we have listed, the Steelman tread depth measurement can be read in both mm and inches.
This is a great feature for all European customers who are used to mm readings.
This well designed model has a metal tip that won’t push back the gauge and leave you with inaccurate readings.
It’s an affordable and convenient investment that is a perfect addition to your toolset and will definitely serve your needs for many years to come.
7. GODESON 88702 Smart Color Coded Tire Tread Depth Gauge
Always keep this Tire Tread Depth Gauge in your glove box so that you don’t have to go anywhere else whenever you need to check tread depth.
This well built, affordable and handy gadget clearly shows depth, with measurements ranging from 1/32″ to 3/32″.
Features include an easy-to-read color coded chart, a pocket clip, and a durable plastic construction.
This reliable brand is built to last.
8. Milton Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge with Tread Depth Gauge
It comes with both a deflator button and built in tire tread depth gauge. It’s made from durable plated brass with a 4 side nylon indicator bar.
Tire pressure should always be checked when the tires are cold.
It is only applicable for passenger car use. Its portability makes it easy to store in your car’s glove compartment or even in your purse or pocket. It has a pocket clip so that it won’t ever get lost.
9. Preciva LCD Digital Tire Thread Depth Gauge
It has both inch and mm conversion readings which is convenient for both Americans and Europeans.
It has a large LCD display which allows for easy reading of results either in inches or mm. It not only reads tread depth but also brake shoe and pad wear.
Because it is digital, it needs batteries to operate. It is also a nice device to have for auto body and repair service centers and also for insurance appraisers.
10. Preciva LCD Digital Tire Tread Depth Gauge Tool
This tool has to offer quality-made and non-carcinogenic materials which gives a nice and satisfying feeling while working with these kinds of gadgets.
Perfectly working mechanism holds the solid steel rod in place without bounce back effect. No reason to assume it won’t do well for many years at this stage.
Must read:
Why Is Tire Tread Depth Gauge Important for Your Own Safety?
The frequent measurement of tread depth is a simple and efficient method of ensuring that your tires can stay on the road and stay secure.
The main link between your car and the road is your tires. When you drive, the tread takes the road. Your automobile can lose traction and endure prolonged braking times if it isn’t deep enough.
Shallow grooves make handling of the vehicle difficult in rainy conditions and increase the possibility of aquaplaning.
Are There Any Alternatives for Checking Tire Tread Depth Without Buying a Gadget?
Absolutely! For years people have been checking tire tread depth with an old-fashioned way called the “penny test”.
The test is performed with a penny head stuck in a tire tread; if you see the entire head of Lincoln, change the tires.
Buyers Guide: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Tire Tread Depth Gauge
English System (Inches) And Metric System (MM) Readability
You’ll never know whether it’s an American or a European who will buy the product. To be prepared for the eventuality, it should be readable in both inches or mm.
Sturdiness of Material
When you make the purchase, you don’t expect to use it for only a few months. You hope that it will be useful for at least a few years, so it should be made of a durable material.
Added Bonus of Having a Tire Pressure Gauge
It is a luxury to be having an added feature of a tire pressure gauge within the tire tread gauge as long as both are working accurately and reliably.
Portability
It should be of a size that makes it easy to store in your car’s glove compartment or in a small space.
Avoid Materials Made From Lead
The concern isn’t with touching the lead. When you inhale or ingest lead, it becomes hazardous.
Even if you purchase a tire tread depth gauge made from this material, immediately wash your hands after usage and keep it away from children.
In Summary: My Own Recommendation and Experience With a Product
After analyzing the merits of each tire tread gauge featured here, I tend to lean towards the products with a clear reading area and with inches or cms as the measurement system used.
But I do understand the argument of also having mm as an alternative measurement, and I have no problem with that.
And since I have the habit of putting my tools in the car within reach, and this means, the glove compartment, or the rear of the car, it means the tire tread depth gauge of choice should be easy to store.
With all these features in mind, the device in the list that stands out is the CZC Auto Digital Tire Pressure and Tire Tread Depth Gauge.
It is a two in one device which makes it really convenient for a car owner. As a tire pressure gauge, it could fit not only nozzles of cars, but also those of trucks, bicycles and motorcycles.
Since it is a digital device, it needs batteries. But I don’t mind that because the LCD screen display is really a joy when reading the results. And it’s a glow in the dark operation, which is an added bonus.
With its easy operation, high accuracy and convenient readability, it’s the best tire tread depth gauge device that you should purchase.
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