Things You'll Need:
- Tread wear gauge
-
Step 1
Determine if you have tread wear indicators by looking at the sidewall for the initials "TWI" and an arrow pointing at the tread wear indicator running the width of the tire. This spot on the tire will be smooth if the tread depth is too shallow. This is barely visible beneath the tread.
-
Step 2
Find the legal amount of tread required by your state's Department of Transportation, or simply contact your Chevy dealership and ask what the recommended tread depth specification is for your Silverado. Generally, however, the legal minimum is 2/32" (1.6 mm), but a minimum of 3/32 is recommended for safety.
-
Step 3
Pick up a tread wear gauge from your local automotive store. This should be located in the tools next to the tire pressure gauges or possibly next to the valve stems.
-
Step 4
Insert the tread wear tool into the crease of the tread. Start at one edge of the tire and take five or six measurements along the width of the tire tread. Note the lowest measurement as this indicates the least amount of tread.
-
Step 5
Compare these measurements for all four tires, especially since your Silverado is four-wheel-drive. Note any uneven wear or common tread wear between multiple tires. This may indicate alignment problems or tire balance problems.
-
Step 6
Take your Silverado into the tire shop and have sets of tires replaced that show too much wear. The Silverado HD 2500 came with the 245/75-16 Load Rating E tire, but with so many models available, be sure to ask your tire professional which one is right for your truck.
