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[JtBlk M3]

hey guys, i wanted to know your input on whats the best way to know if i need new rear tires. i have the 18inch stock micheline PS2 tires, and ~8K miles on the car. the tread is pretty low but obviously not bald or anything. maybe .5cm deep threads i would say. i know the weather is getting cooler as is the road surface, but iam getting alotttt more slip than ever for the last few weeks or month, how do i know if its time for new tires?? thanks in advance !

[M3SQRD]

Check to see if you have worn the tread down to the treadwear indicators (small raised rubber areas sitting between the tread blocks).

Also once the temp drops below 45F summer tires start to lose grip. Even if you don't get a lot of snow winter tires should be used if the temps stay below 45F.

[JtBlk M3]

thanks alot dbarnes, i appreciate the advice. i will check on those raised rubber marks, they should be found "in" the tread part right? thanks again

[M3SQRD]

Originally Posted by JtBlk M3

thanks alot dbarnes, i appreciate the advice. i will check on those raised rubber marks, they should be found "in" the tread part right? thanks again

Yes, if you look at the grooves (water channels) in between the tread blocks there will be raised rubber pads at various points around the circumference of the tire. If the tread block height is equal to the wear indicator height you need new tires AND your wet weather traction is greatly compromised (see this thread http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=603457 to find out what can happen in the wet with badly worn tires).

Also, it's not a bad idea to invest in a used set of OEM wheels and winter tires to play it safe in snow or cold conditions.

[ben@tirerack]

2/32" (the wear bars) is the legal minimum. Below 4/32", the wet traction will start to suffer noticeably.

If you do not have a tread depth gauge, here are some handy tests you can do with the spare change in your console:

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tirete...&affiliate=AW8

[Dave07997S]

If my math serves me correctly, .5 cm is just under .25 of an inch or 8/32nds..sounds like to me you are at 6-7/32nds of an inch, well within spec.

Dave

[M3SQRD]

Originally Posted by Dave07997S

If my math serves me correctly, .5 cm is just under .25 of an inch or 8/32nds..sounds like to me you are at 6-7/32nds of an inch, well within spec.

Dave

0.5 cm = 0.196"

[Dave07997S]

Originally Posted by dbarnes

0.5 cm = 0.196"

Yea I did the conversion after I wrote it...still close enough. The OP is at around 6/32s still within the treadbar.