Getting New Tires for Your Car: 4 Things You Need To Know

When it comes to ensuring your vehicle's safety and performance, tires play an integral role you can’t overlook. Their constant contact with the road makes them critical parts of your car’s anatomy.

If you're in the market for new tires, you must arm yourself with knowledge to make an informed choice. Below, we’ll explain the key things you need to know when getting new tires for your car.

Types of Tires

Tires are not one-size-fits-all components. Every tire caters to a unique demand, balancing attributes such as grip, durability, noise level, and fuel efficiency. The most common types of tires are:

• All-purpose tires
• All-terrain (off-road) tires
• Performance tires
• Winter tires

Within these broad tire categories are subcategories of all-purpose, off-road, and other tires from different tire manufacturers that each boast unique attributes. For most, all-purpose tires will suffice. However, if the tires are for a special car or unique driving conditions, you may consider the others.

Your Vehicle’s Tire Size

Another important thing you need to know when getting new tires for your car is the tire size. When choosing the right tire size for your vehicle, you’ll want to consider your car’s previous tires and the driving conditions for your new tires.

You can find the size of your car’s previous tires in your owner's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's side door. Tire sizes are on the sidewall of the tire in a series of numbers and letters. Installing the wrong size could affect your car's handling and potentially place undue stress on the vehicle's suspension system.

Your Driving Style

Beyond just the size, you should also evaluate the best tire for your usual driving conditions. The everyday commuter might prioritize longevity and fuel economy, while the performance enthusiast may look for superior handling and speed capabilities. Tires come with particular patterns and compounds to match these expectations, so choose a tire that correlates with your usage to reap the most benefits.

Your Driving Conditions

Your local climate and road conditions significantly influence your tire selection. For those living in areas prone to heavy rain, tires with exceptional water displacement can dramatically reduce the risk of hydroplaning.

Conversely, residents in colder climates should contemplate winter tires, which remain flexible during low temperatures and provide enhanced traction on snowy or icy surfaces. If you're fortunate to live where the sun shines year-round, all-season tires might suffice, delivering a comfortable balance for both dry and wet conditions.

Conclusion

Buying tires is an investment in your vehicle's ability, safety, and performance. Prioritize quality and optimal fit. Cheap tires might save you money at the counter but could cost you more in the long run due to frequent replacements or, worse, compromised safety. Most importantly, consult your vehicle’s manual, consider your driving habits, and assess environmental demands before making your decision.