CDL · Vehicle Inspection

Which of the following is a sign that a tire is unsafe for highway use?

Correct answer

Tread depth of 2/32 inch on a steering axle tire

  1. A Tread depth of 4/32 inch on a front tire
  2. B Tread depth of 2/32 inch on a steering axle tire
  3. C A regroovable tire on a non-steering axle
  4. D A radial tire mixed with another radial tire

Why this is the answer

Federal regulations require steering axle tires to have a minimum tread depth of 4/32 of an inch. Other tires must have at least 2/32 inch. A steering tire with only 2/32 inch tread is well below the legal minimum and is unsafe. Steering tires receive more wear and bear critical responsibility for vehicle control, especially during braking and in wet conditions. Worn steering tires increase stopping distance, reduce wet-weather grip, and dramatically raise the risk of a blowout. A 4/32 inch front tire is at the legal minimum and acceptable. Regroovable tires are permitted on non-steering axles. Mixing two radials is normal and safe; the concern is mixing radial and bias-ply tires on the same axle, which is prohibited.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 2.1.7 Tire Defects

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