Abstract: The system is for use in monitoring one or more vehicle tires to detect the onset of tire tread separation. Tire tread separation occurs when the surface layers of a tire are separated from the underlying body or carcass. The system of the present invention can detect the onset of this condition and warn a driver so that appropriate safety measures can be taken. In its broadest context, the detection system of the present invention includes a sensor for transmitting and receiving a beam of energy; a ranging unit for determining the distance between the sensor and the surface of the tire being monitored; a data acquisition unit for determining when a tire tread separation condition is present; and an alarm for alerting a driver of a dangerous tire tread condition. The system can be use to monitor either one tire or a pair of tires.