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How the COATS Tread Depth Scanner Works

How the COATS Tread Depth Scanner Works

The COATS Tread Depth Scanner isn’t just another tool—it’s a complete system designed to streamline inspections, increase service transparency, and give customers the confidence to say yes to tire and alignment work. If you’re running a busy shop, this scanner helps you save time, build trust, and boost ticket averages—all with a simple drive-over.

Let’s break down exactly how it works and why it matters.

Instant Tread Readings Without Slowing Down

Here’s the thing: time matters—for you and your customers.

With the COATS Tread Depth Scanner, there’s no need to stop the car or manually inspect each tire. The process is automatic:

  • A customer drives over the platform.
  • The system triggers instantly—no button, no sensor needed.
  • In seconds, it captures real-time tire tread depth and health data.
  • A report is generated right away—on a tablet screen or as a printed copy.

That’s less time inspecting, more time servicing, and a smoother customer experience from start to finish.

How the Scanner Actually Reads the Tires

What makes this system smarter than traditional tread gauges or even laser systems?

  • HD cameras + LED light arrays: Two high-definition cameras and multiple LED lights scan the tire tread across a 17-inch read area.
  • 60 data points per millimeter: That’s incredibly high resolution—enough to detect precise wear patterns, bald spots, and uneven tread distribution.
  • True 3D imaging: Unlike laser-based tools that can miss areas or misread worn edges, this scanner builds a full 3D profile of each tire.

In short: it doesn’t just give you a tread depth number. It shows the full picture.

License Plate Capture for Automatic Vehicle ID

To make reporting seamless, the scanner includes a camera mounted between the platforms. As the vehicle drives by, it captures the front or rear license plate—no RFID tags, no extra steps, no hassle.

This image is automatically linked to the report, so you know exactly which vehicle it belongs to. No mix-ups, no confusion.

The Tire Health Report: Clear, Visual, Actionable

Once the scan is complete, the system generates a customizable Tire Health Report. Here’s what’s included:

  • Current tread depth across each tire
  • Color-coded visuals to indicate good, fair, or poor condition
  • Irregular wear patterns that could signal alignment or suspension issues
  • Recommended actions, like tire replacement, alignment, or rotation
  • Estimated braking distance based on current tread

This report isn’t just useful for technicians—it’s designed for customer understanding. You can show the report during check-in or service write-up, helping your team explain the issue and recommend the next step with total clarity.

Always Ready, No Downtime

After each scan, the system automatically enters standby mode—ready to activate as soon as the next car arrives.

It also stores up to 10 consecutive tests internally, so you’re not forced to download data right away. That gives you flexibility during rush hours and lets you manage data on your schedule.

Space-Saving, Low-Maintenance Design

You get two mounting options:

  • Surface mount: Fast and simple to install on any flat bay floor
  • Flush mount: Sleek and out of the way for drive-through setups

Both options are low-maintenance by design:

  • No moving parts to wear out or break
  • Resistant to dust, debris, and shop grime
  • No calibration headaches or sensitive laser components

That means lower upkeep costs and fewer interruptions to your workflow.

Why It Matters for Shops and Customers

Let’s be blunt: most customers don’t understand tires, and they usually don’t trust service recommendations blindly. The COATS Tread Depth Scanner fixes that problem by showing them exactly what’s going on—visually, quickly, and with data to back it up.

For shops, this means:

  • Faster check-ins
  • Higher acceptance rates for tire and alignment upsells
  • Fewer returns and warranty disputes
  • Stronger customer retention

For customers, it’s peace of mind. No pressure. No guessing. Just a clear picture of their tire health—and the option to act on it.

Final Thoughts

The COATS Automatic Tread Depth Scanner isn’t just another inspection tool. It’s a tire sales multiplier, a shop efficiency booster, and a trust-building system rolled into one. If you’re serious about offering modern, data-driven service that respects your customer’s time, this scanner delivers.

Want to learn more or see it in action?
 Visit the COATS website or check out the video here.