Hydroplaning is a frightening thing. One minute you're driving along, and the road may not even seem excessively wet, when suddenly you lose traction and enter a skid.
Why does this happen?
When water comes between the rubber of your tires and the pavement, you lose control. Normally, your vehicle's tread acts like channels, giving water a path to escape so it does not become trapped under the tire. However, this channeling ability is based on tread depth.
In very deep water, you need deeper tread to handle the volume. However, even in shallow water you can start to hydroplane if your tread is below 3/32 inches. Short of a full skid, you will also experience reduced stopping power.
According to a 2013 study by Smithers Rapra, a vehicle driving on worn tread took 10 additional car lengths to stop from 60mph compared with an identical vehicle with fresh tires.
At Dick Poe Toyota, our service professionals can help you inspect your tires, and find the correct replacements if needed. Schedule an appointment with our Service Center in El Paso, TX.
