Fall Tire Safety Tips for Utica & Mohawk Valley Drivers
September 09 2025 - web@mpwmarketing.com
Your Tire Tread is Your First Line of Defense
As September arrives in the Mohawk Valley, the area starts to undergo a welcome change. The crisp autumn air is a cool relief after our long, hot summer, but it also brings challenges if you’re a local commuter. Wet fall roads—often covered in a slick layer of oil, rain, and fallen leaves—can quickly become hazardous. For drivers in and around Utica, the condition of your tires’ tread and the level of inflation matters more than ever this time of year. Your first line of defense against slippery fall roads is healthy tire tread.Why Tread Depth Matters in Fall
The greatest risk on wet Central New York roads is hydroplaning. This happens when your tires can’t channel water away fast enough, causing your tires to lose contact with the road surface. It can happen in an instant—especially at higher speeds on Route 12, the North–South Arterial, or even the Thruway. Tire tread grooves are designed to move water out from under your tires, but they can only do their job if there’s enough tread left. Worn-down tires greatly increase your chances of skidding, sliding, or losing control.The Penny Test: A Quick At-Home Check
Wondering if your tires are ready for fall? All you need is a penny. Here’s how to do the penny test:- Take a penny and place it into one of your tire’s tread grooves with Abraham Lincoln’s head upside down.
- If you can see the very top of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is low (likely below 2/32 of an inch) and it’s time to start shopping for a new set of tires.
- If part of Lincoln’s head is covered, you’ve got more tread left than the minimum—but keep checking it has autumn becomes winter.
Don’t Forget Tire Pressure
Tread depth isn’t the only thing that matters—tire pressure is just as important. As temperatures drop in Utica, so does the air pressure in your tires, usually about 1 PSI for every 10-degree change. Under inflated tires don’t make proper contact with the road, reducing traction and increasing your risk of hydroplaning or longer braking distances.
Tip: Check your tire pressure once a month during the cooler days of fall and winter.
When to See a Tire Professional
While the penny test is a handy and simple measurement, it only tells part of your tires' story. A professional tire inspection at New Generation is your best option for finding out the full story about your tires and their condition. A trained tire professional will do the following:- Measure accurate tread depth for all your tires
- Check for uneven wear on your tires (often caused by potholes or misalignment)
- Tire rotation recommendations for more even wear and extended tire life.
- Seasonal advice for preparing for rainy fall and our winter weather ahead.