The Financial Implications of Major Car Damage

Posted on August 17, 2023 by Benjamin

In the world of automobile ownership, major car damage such as those inflicted by fire or water can represent a significant financial hit. These catastrophes don’t discriminate, indiscriminately affecting both new and seasoned car owners alike. The burden of these damages can extend far beyond the immediate repair costs, encroaching on your peace of mind, financial stability, and future plans.

This blog post aims to shed light on the financial implications of major automotive damages, helping you to better navigate these unfortunate events and mitigate their impact on your financial health.

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Preparing for Unexpected Major Car Damage

The first and perhaps most important step to mitigating the financial impact of major car damage is to prepare yourself ahead of time. As you never know when an unfortunate accident may occur, it’s important to have a plan in place so that you can act quickly if need be. Consider getting comprehensive auto insurance coverage that includes both collision and liability coverage, as this will provide you with a greater level of financial security while still being affordable.

It’s also wise to build up an emergency savings fund that can be used to cover the cost of automotive repairs in case of any major damage to your vehicle. This way, you won’t have to worry about taking on more debt just to get your vehicle back in working order. Ideally, you should have enough saved to cover at least a few months of expenses so that your financial situation won’t be severely impacted by the added repair costs.

Calculating the Cost of Repairs

Once you’ve had an accident or other unfortunate event that has damaged your vehicle, one of the most important steps is to figure out how much it’s going to cost to get it back in proper working order. This can mean getting estimates from certified mechanics or mechanics that have a good reputation, as general estimates can vary widely. It’s also wise to compare the costs of these repairs to the value of your vehicle so you can determine if it makes more financial sense to go ahead with the repairs or just opt for a replacement.

You should also keep in mind that there may be other hidden expenses involved in these repairs, such as the cost of a rental car while your own vehicle is being repaired, or the cost of taking time off work to deal with such inconveniences. These costs can add up quickly so it’s important to factor them into your calculations when determining the total cost of repairs.

Should You Repair or Replace?

When facing major auto damage, you have two main options: repair or replace. The decision of which route to take will depend on several factors, including the cost of repairs and the current value of your vehicle. Generally speaking, if the cost of repairs exceed your vehicle’s actual cash value, then it may make more financial sense to just go ahead and purchase a new vehicle. In such cases, a local cash for cars company will gladly pickup your junk car for free and pay you cash on the spot for it in return. All you need is proof of ownership, like a car title. Afterwards, you can put your earnings toward a new car.

Moving Forward After Major Car Damages

No matter which approach you choose to take in dealing with major vehicular damage, there are some steps that can help you move forward financially after the event. First and foremost, make sure to keep all receipts for any repairs or purchases related to the incident, as this will help when filing any insurance claims. You should also work on quickly paying off any debts that you may have taken on in order to repair your vehicle and consider ways of reducing future expenses such as shopping around for better insurance coverage.

In Summary

Major car damage can be a significant financial setback, but with the right strategies and preparation, you can minimize the impact on your financial health. From having comprehensive insurance coverage to building up an emergency savings fund, there are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself from the added financial burden caused by major automotive damages. By taking these steps before an incident occurs and following our advice after it does, you’ll be better equipped to handle any unfortunate events that come your way.

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8 Essential Tips for Dealing with a Car Breakdown on the Road

Posted on February 10, 2023 by Benjamin

Getting stuck on the side of the road with a broken-down car can be one of life’s most stressful experiences. With no way to get home and potentially expensive repair costs looming, it pays to know how to handle such a situation.

Below you will find 8 essential tips for dealing with a car breakdown on the road, so you can stay safe and minimize any damage or hassle. From knowing when to call junk car removal services or towing companies, to understanding what your insurance will cover if your vehicle is totaled, these tips will help you navigate this tricky situation like an expert!

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What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down

1. Take precautions to stay safe: If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, make sure to use any safety measures available such as emergency lights and reflective triangles to alert other drivers. It’s also a good idea to stay inside your car until help arrives, especially if you are in an unfamiliar area.

2. Don’t attempt DIY repairs: It’s tempting in such situations to try to fix the problem yourself, but this could end up doing more harm than good. Unless you have extensive experience with car repairs, it’s best to wait for a professional mechanic before attempting any fixes.

3. Keep a roadside emergency kit in your car: Every car should have an emergency kit with tools and supplies such as jumper cables, flashlights, bottled water, and snacks. This will not only help you in a breakdown situation, but it’s also smart to have one on hand in case of any other roadside emergencies.

4. Call friends or family for assistance: If you find yourself stuck with no way to get home, don’t hesitate to call a friend or family member and ask them to pick you up. It’s always best to have someone with you in case of any further issues.

5. Check your insurance policy: Before you start making any arrangements, be sure to check your insurance policy in case of a totaled car. In some cases, your insurance may cover the cost of junk car removal services or even towing if it is needed.

6. Have a reliable repair shop in mind: Before any breakdown happens, it’s important to know a reliable repair shop near your area so you can quickly get help when needed. Ask friends and family for recommendations, and make sure to research any potential shop before taking your vehicle there.

7. Call a towing company if needed: If your vehicle is still in working condition, but you can’t get it to start, a towing company may be able to tow your vehicle to a nearby garage. Be sure to check with your insurance provider first though, as some policies will cover the cost of a tow.

8. Know when to call for junk car removal services: If your car is totaled and you need it towed away, call a cash for cars company for junk car removal service right away. They are typically more affordable than a towing company and can often get the job done quickly.

Manage Car Breakdowns Accordingly

To make sure you’re ready for any road hiccups, utilize these 8 essential tips. By doing so, you’ll be in a better position to manage car breakdowns and junk car removal services should they happen. Additionally, understand how your insurance will cover the situation too! That way, it reduces potential damage and stress that can come with being in an unanticipated predicament. Take precautionary measures now to safeguard yourself later – plan ahead of time for unfortunate events before they occur!

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The Top 3 Most Expensive Auto Repairs

Posted on November 4, 2022 by Benjamin

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The average car on the road today is nearly 11 years old, according to IHS Markit. That’s the oldest age ever recorded since the research firm began tracking this number in 1987. Since cars are lasting longer, it’s not surprising that repair and maintenance costs are on the rise.

3 Auto Repairs That Cost the Most

One of the most expensive types of repairs is engine replacement. This can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $5,500, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Another expensive repair is transmission replacement, which can cost upwards of $3,000. Other costly repairs include suspension work, electrical system repairs, and cooling system repairs. These can all easily cost several thousand dollars to fix.

Understanding Engine Repair Costs

It’s no secret that car engine repair costs can be pretty high. In fact, they’re one of the most expensive repairs you can have done on your vehicle. But why are they so expensive? Let’s take a look at some of the reasons.

One reason car engine repair costs are so high is because there are a lot of parts that need to be repaired or replaced. The engine is a complex machine with a lot of moving parts. When one of those parts breaks down, it can be expensive to fix.

Another reason car engine repair costs are so high is because engines are expensive to begin with. They’re made up of a lot of intricate parts and require a lot of labor to assemble. That makes them one of the most expensive components of a car.

Finally, car engine repair costs are so high because engines are difficult to access. They’re usually located deep inside the vehicle, making it hard to get to them if something goes wrong. This can add to the cost of the repair.

Interpreting Transmission Repair Costs

Car transmission repair costs are high for a variety of reasons. First, the parts required to fix a transmission are expensive. Second, the labor required to replace or repair a transmission is also costly. Finally, the amount of time that it takes to fix a transmission can be significant, which adds to the overall cost.

There are a few things that you can do to try to reduce the cost of transmission repair. First, if you have a warranty on your car, make sure to use it. Second, get multiple estimates from different mechanics before deciding on who to use. Finally, try to find a mechanic who specializes in transmission repair – they may be able to offer a lower price.

Major Auto Repairs Versus Minor Ones

Of course, not all repairs are going to break the bank. There are plenty of relatively inexpensive repairs that can be done to keep your car running smoothly. For example, replacing a battery or changing the oil are both relatively cheap and easy to do. But if you’re faced with a major repair, it’s important to be prepared to pay the high cost. Rather than putting off repairs or trying to fix the problem yourself, it’s best to take your car to a certified mechanic and get a professional opinion. Doing so can save you money in the long run and help you avoid further damage to your car.

When You Cannot Afford to Repair Your Car

A total loss vehicle is one that has been so badly damaged in an accident or other event that it is not economically feasible to repair. When a car is deemed a total loss, the insurance company will usually declare it a “write-off” and pay the owner the actual cash value of the vehicle minus any applicable deductible. This can be a frustrating experience for the owner, who may have to find a new car on short notice. Fortunately, you also have the option to sell your totaled car at a local Indianapolis auto salvage yard. Professional businesses will pick up your junk car for free and pay you cash on the spot!

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Can I Reset the Check Engine Light in My Car?

Posted on September 14, 2022 by Benjamin

An illuminated Check Engine Light on the dashboard of your vehicle could mean a lot of things. Some things are quite minor, while others might suggest you need a whole new car. If your Check Engine Light problem is something serious, it is critical that you have it repaired by a certified mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with the Check Engine Light on is dangerous, plus it can cause serious internal damage to the engine and more.

If for some reason you wish to clear the Check Engine Light on your vehicle yourself, there is an easy way to get the job done. Continue below to learn how to reset a Check Engine Light.

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What is Your Check Engine Light Doing?

A flashing Check Engine Light indicates a serious engine problem, such as a bad catalytic converter. A solid Check Engine Light icon signifies a less urgent problem, such as a loose gas cap or defective spark plug. If your issue is something that can be done yourself, like tightening up the gas cap, go right ahead. For all other automotive problems, you will need a professional. A mechanic has the proper skills to read the Check Engine Light code, repair the problem, and clear the icon from your dash.

DIY Check Engine Light Clearing

Unless you have your own Check Engine Light code reader, you will not be able to reset the icon yourself. It is not recommended to ignore a serious mechanical problem and simply reset the Check Engine Light. Not only is this unethical if you want to sell the car down the line, but it is dangerous and only does more harm to the vehicle.

How to Reset the Check Engine Light

Was your problem minor, like a loose gas cap, and you fixed it, but the light won’t turn off? Do this:

Try disconnecting the car battery. Let it sit for several minutes, then connect it back up. This is known to work well.

At a steady pace, turn your vehicle on and off, three times in a row, driving a few miles in between. This usually triggers the onboard computer to reset itself.

You can also just drive for a while, without stopping. Often times, the onboard computer system will run self-tests and finally confirm that the issue is resolved, thus switching off the light.

Are you using a code reader?

Simply plug it in, select the Check Engine Light error code, and erase the code. Some code readers do not have this feature, but most will.

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Should I Detail My Junk Car Before Scrapping It?

Posted on August 31, 2022 by Benjamin

Consumer sciences might agree that better-looking goods sell for more. However, this supply-and-demand principle does not always apply to all types of sales. Junk cars might be an example. Many people naturally wonder if they can get more money for their junk car before selling it to a scrap yard in Indianapolis. The answer depends on a few factors.

Continue below to learn what those factors are, plus how to ensure you make the most cash for junk cars in Indiana.

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Automotive Detailing Options

Automotive detailing generally involves a comprehensive and methodical series of steps that cleanses, sanitizes, and freshens up the exterior and interior of a vehicle. You can choose to take your vehicle into a professional automotive detailing center and pay between $75 and $600, depending on the size and scope of your vehicle. Or you can detail your car on your own using store-bought products, materials, and equipment. If you choose DIY automotive detailing, you can expect to spend anywhere between 1 and 7 hours getting the job done, plus upwards of $200 for the supplies. It can be a lot of work and still cost you.

The Value in Detailing a Junked Car

Junk cars are just that: junk. But in some cases, a junk car can still drive, be repaired enough to be drivable again, or contain major car parts that can be refurbished and resold on the used auto parts market. Depending on the condition of your junk car, detailing could add value and get you more cash at the scrap yard, or it can end up a complete waste of money.

Ask yourself these questions to determine if automotive detailing is a worthwhile expense for your junk car:

Will my junk car operate again with just a few repairs, even if those repairs are major like engine replacement? Is my junked car very old and corroded? Does my junk car have a bunch of garbage inside?

For junk cars that might one day operate again, detailing could be very worthwhile before scrapping it at a local Indianapolis auto salvage yard. As mentioned earlier, the better looking something is, the more money it will sell for.

For junk cars that are old, corroded, or filled with garbage, automotive detailing could be a huge waste of time and money. Instead, it is wiser to tidy your car up before taking it in for a junk car evaluation. Although it won’t increase the innate scrap value, the auto buyers will reduce any fees from your offer related to cleanup and bio-hazard removal. This puts more money in your pocket!

Before Selling a Junk Car

Although you do not need to detail your junk car before selling it, it is smart to clean it up a bit. Give it a wash, clean out any trash inside the cabin or trunk, and remove any personal belongings. Be sure to also remove the front and back plates, plus cancel the insurance and registration with the state. And that’s all you have to do before selling a junk car for cash in Indiana!

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FAQS About Car Engine Flushes

Posted on August 15, 2022 by Benjamin

Were you just offered a car engine flush at your recent oil change service? You may be wondering what an engine flush does and if you should get one for your car. Your confusion comes as no surprise, considering there are ongoing debates regarding the value of routine engine flushing.

Scroll down to review some frequently asked questions about car engine flushes and then determine if this controversial automotive service is right for your vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Engine Flushing

What is an Engine Flush?

An engine flush is exactly what it sounds like. It is an automotive service designed to flush all of the residual residues and gunk out of your internal engine compartments. To perform an engine flush, a licensed mechanic pours a specialized concoction of chemicals into the engine, lets the motor idle for a few minutes, then drains the chemicals from the engine. Engine flushes are commonly performed in between oil changes. After the old oil is removed, the mechanical flush the engine, then commence with the oil change process by pouring a new motor oil.

Does My Car Need an Engine Flush?

As just mentioned, engine flushes are commonly performed at oil change services, between taking out the old oil and putting in the new oil. Although it’s always good to keep our assets clean, most automotive manufacturers advise against engine flushing, especially among modern vehicles. It is important to check with your owner’s manual for recommendations on engine care and service. It will tell you in clear language if your vehicle is compatible with engine flushing or not. So long as you stay current with your oil change schedule, you should never have to flush her engine.

When is Engine Flushing Recommended?

Engine flushing should be reserved for vehicles that have been sitting for many years without being driven or started, or for junked cars that are being restored. Engine flushes might also help when restoring or refurbishing an old motor. Other than that, engine flushing services are not recommended for actively driven vehicles.

Will I Damage My Engine By Flushing It?

Yes, engine flushing can cause internal damages to your motor. It is important to refer to your owner’s manual for recommendations on engine care and maintenance before implementing any questionable auto services.

Do Engine Flushes Improve Fuel Economy?

No, engine flushes do not impact the quality of your fuel economy.

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Car Maintenance Guide for a Vehicle You Rarely Drive

Posted on July 14, 2022 by Benjamin

Do you have a few vehicles at your household, leaving one at the bottom of ride-choice list? If you have a car or truck that seldom gets driven, you might think it needs less maintenance. But the truth is, even a barely-driven car needs routine auto care. Continue below to review a basic car maintenance guide for rarely-driven vehicles, plus how to still make the best out of a car that has driven its last mile.

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How to Care for a Car You Hardly Ever Drive

It can certainly be easy to forget about a car that you hardly ever drive. But it is important to give all your vehicles the proper routine care they need. After all, vehicles are designed to be driven. When cars are not driven for long periods of time, they can experience internal corrosion and deterioration, such as dried out gaskets and seals, tire rot, AC mold growth, and much more. So, what can you do to prevent your hardly-driven car from suffering such damage? You will need to establish a routine maintenance plan specifically for cars that are stationary for long periods of time.

Here are some of the most important elements of routine car care to focus on when creating your vehicle’s routinely maintenance plan:

Fuel

Believe it or not, gasoline can expire and go bad. Old gasoline can have many negative effects on the performance and condition of your vehicle. Not only will it cause your car to not start, but it can also gum up internal parts like the fuel filter, fuel injectors, or carburetor. To extend the life of your gasoline, add a fuel stabilizer product to the tank.

Tires

Vehicles that are stationary for long periods of time, often experience problems with the tires. Not only do sitting tires suffer from air pressure loss, but tires can also develop flat spots and dry rot. To avoid this problem, regularly inspect the air pressure in your tires and inflate them as needed. It also helps to periodically drive your car, even if just around the block.

Battery

Sitting vehicles are notorious for losing battery power. To prevent battery discharge on a rarely-driven vehicle, use a set of jumper cables to periodically recharge the battery. You can also choose to keep a trickle charger on it or simply take it for a spin every once in a while. These practices should keep the battery juiced up.

Brakes

Car brakes will rest, whether you drive your vehicle or not. For this reason, it is important to inspect your car breaks regularly for any oxidation or corrosion. To prevent rusty car brakes on a car you really drive, regularly replace the brake pads as needed.

Paint

Although contrary to most people’s understanding, car paint will rust, peel, and fade if you do not regularly take care of it. Even if you don’t drive your car very often, it is important to periodically wash and wax it using quality automotive products, plus cover it with the proper size tarp.

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Your Steering Wheel Might Be Dirtier Than a Public Toilet

Posted on June 23, 2022 by Benjamin

What do you consider to be the germiest, dirtiest everyday item you handle? Your kitchen sponges? The remote control to the television set? Maybe your dog’s toys? What about that touch-screen phone? Well, you would be wrong if you own and driver a vehicle. Steering wheels are one of the most overlooked germ-ridden commodities in society, even compared to things that are expected to be quite germy, like shopping carts, elevator buttons, and gas pump handles.

In fact, scroll down to learn some steering wheel hygiene facts that will truly blow your mind!

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Your Steering Wheel is Probably Really Dirty

Considering the fact that the average American is reported to spend around 17,000 minutes in their vehicles, it is no surprise that we are transmitting a plethora of germs and other contaminants from our hands to our steering wheels each time we drive. This revelation becomes more concerning when you think about how often you clean the outside of your car compared to the inside.

In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by CarRentals.com, data revealed that 32% percent of the car owners surveyed only clean the inside of their car once year! The same survey showed that 12% never clean the inside of the vehicles! Needless to say, that ultimate rewards membership you have at the local car wash isn’t doing your steering wheel any good.

What is on Your Steering Wheel?

Use your vehicle to run errands, going in and out of stores in between each trip? Do you like to eat and drive? Do you have kids? Or pets that like to ride along with you in your lap? Do you pump your own gas? Do you wash your hands before leaving work? What about the gym? These are all the different places and scenarios in which you are transmitting germs and bacteria to your steering wheel.

The aforementioned CarRentals.com survey also revealed that the average driver’s steering wheel is two times dirtier than an elevator button, six times dirtier than your touchscreen cell phone, and even four times dirtier than a public toilet. For little comparison perspective, WebMD’s “Grossest” List places smart phones at the very top. Insert gulp here. What about that gas station pump handle? Studies show that the average gas pump handle is more than 11,000 times dirtier than the average toilet seat.

It is important to understand that your steering wheel is likely just as dirty as other components in your vehicle that you touch on a regular basis while driving, including the gearshift, turn signal, radio buttons, navigation screens, and even those car keys. So, moral of the story is to keep some sanitizing wipes in your vehicle and regularly wipe down every touchable surface as needed!

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How to Clean Driveway Stains Caused By a Junk Car

Posted on June 7, 2022 by Benjamin

When you let a car sit for a long period of time, you can expect it to leak some fluids. Even the tires can leave behind marks after a while. If you are ready to get rid of a junk car but fear what driveway stains might be exposed once you do, you are not alone. Continue below to learn some effective driveway cleaning tips that will clear away automotive stains left behind by a junk car.

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How to Remove Common Driveway Stains

Everything from motor oil and gasoline to brake fluid, transmission fluid, and similar automotive chemicals and solvents can be cleaned from a driveway with the right materials and techniques. Even tire marks can be lightened or removed. It is important to note that driveway stains are best removed when treated as soon as they happen. In the case of a sitting junk car, you might not be able to access the stains right away, so they may require repeat cleanings to get optimal results.

The pavement material of your driveway will decide which cleaning approaches you use.

Asphalt Stain Removal

You might think that asphalt stains are not as bad because asphalt pavement is dark and works well to disguise imperfections. But the truth is, you can still see stains on asphalt, plus certain stains can be structurally damaging or corrosive to the pavement. Whether you have asphalt or concrete, driveway stain removal is an important project for curb appeal, investment protection, and budget awareness.

To clean asphalt driveway stains, purchase a biodegradable oven cleaner. It is necessary for the product to be biodegradable. Apply the product generously over the asphalt stain, then allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Rinse the area clean with a hose. This method works well with grease, oil, and similar solvents.

Concrete Stain Removal

Concrete is a porous, or permeable, pavement, which means spills, leaks, and fluids seep deep into it. For this reason, a more invasive cleaning solution is needed. You can make your own concrete driveway stain removal cleaner at home using a liquid trisodium phosphate (TPS) all-purpose heavy-duty cleaner and moisture-absorbing product (i.e. DampRid). You may also be successful using cornstarch or diatomaceous earth in place of a moisture-absorbing product.

To clean concrete driveway stains, combine your two ingredients to form a paste. Apply the paste in thick layers on top of the stain, then using a stiff-bristle nylon brush, scrub the paste into the pores of the concrete. Afterwards, apply a second coat of paste over the stains and allow it to dry completely. Last, scrape away the residual crust with a putty knife and rinse the surface clean with a hose or pressure washer. As noted earlier, you may need to repeat steps several times to get optimal results.

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Use This Penny Trick to Measure Tire Tread

Posted on May 31, 2022 by Benjamin

Proper tire tread is important for driving safety and fuel efficiency. But what constitutes adequate tire tread? Brand new, most car tires have an average tire depth between 10/32” or 11/32”, and the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) recommends replacing tires when the tread has deteriorated to 2/32 of an inch or lower. But with such a small fraction at play, it is difficult to gauge this measurement by simply looking at your tires. Fortunately, there is a handy little trick you can use to measure your tire tread any day of the week! It’ll cost you though, but only a single penny!

Continue reading to learn how to use a penny to measure tire tread, plus some additional methods for measuring tire tread.

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How to Measure Tire Tread With a Penny

Measuring tire tread with just a single penny is so simple even a child could do it! In fact, this is a fun trick to teach your kids, especially if they like to be little helpers around the garage or if they are older and preparing to learn how to drive. You already know you can find pennies all over your house, so grab a pile and keep a little bag in the garage or carport or even inside your vehicle. This way, you know you are prepared to measure your tire tread, whether at home or on the go.

The key to measuring tire tread using a penny is to keep the penny in the right direction. Here’s what to do:

❶► Turn your penny upside down, with the Lincoln’s head facing you.
❷► Insert the penny headfirst into the groove of your tire.
❸► Look for Lincoln’s head.

Can you still see Lincoln’s head? If so, your tire tread is low. In fact, it is lower than the recommended limit of 2/32 of an inch.

If you cannot see Lincoln’s head. After inserting it into your tire groove, you still have plenty of tread to work with.

Repeat this process on the remaining three tires. Keep in mind that tire tread can differ from tire to tire, even on the same vehicle. So, it is important to always check all tires.

Additional Tire Tread Measuring Tools

Although the penny tire tread trick is effective and reliable, you can get a more accurate measurement by using a store-bought device such as a tread depth gauge. Large trucks and commercial vehicles typically have tires with built-in tire tread wear indicator bars that will appear and present themselves when the tire tread reaches 2/32 of an inch. For all other vehicles, you can rely on a tread depth gauge, which is available at any automotive parts store or department store with an automotive section.

Is your vehicle beyond the value of paying for repairs, so now you just want to get rid of it? Contact Benjamin’s Junk Cars at 317-218-7133 to get a quote from an experienced Indianapolis junk car buyer who will pay you the highest cash payout for junk vehicles and parts in Central Indiana. We provide free junk removal!