When are tires required to be replaced due to tread wear?

Tires are required to be replaced when the tread wears down to 2/32 inches. Tread depth is crucial for maintaining traction on wet and slippery surfaces, as it allows for water to channel away from the tire. At 2/32 inches, tires have minimal tread remaining, which significantly increases the risk of hydroplaning and reduces stopping distance in adverse weather conditions. This threshold is established as a safety standard to ensure drivers have adequate grip on the road.

While other tread depths, such as 4/32 inches or 6/32 inches, may indicate wear, they do not present the same immediate risk to vehicle control and safety as when the tread reaches 2/32 inches. Generally, maintaining tire tread above this level is essential for safe driving, particularly in Ohio's varied weather conditions. Overall, monitoring tire tread and replacing tires when they reach 2/32 inches is a critical practice for safe driving.