Tire Buying Guide


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When it comes time to buy new tires, there are a lot of things to consider. You want to make sure you get the right size and type of tire for your vehicle, and you also want to find a tire that fits your budget and driving needs. With so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Buying the right tires can be a confusing and complicated process. You should always make sure that you do your research and understand what to look for in a new tire.

Photo by Robert Laursoo

Tire Buying Guide

1. Consider Your Driving Needs

The first thing you need to do when shopping for new tires is to consider your driving needs. The factors to consider include

i. The type of vehicle you drive

Different vehicles have different tire needs, so it is important to consider the vehicle you drive when shopping for tires. For example, if you drive a sports car that handles well and spends most of its time on the highway, you will want to look for high-performance tires that can handle quick acceleration and fast cornering. The same is true if you have a truck that is used for towing or off-roading; you will want to find tires that can handle the extra weight and provide good traction in all types of conditions.

ii. The climate where you live and drive

The climate where you live and drive can also impact the type of tire you need. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of snow and ice, you will want to find tires that offer good traction in those conditions. If you live in a hot, dry climate, you will want to find tires that can handle the heat and provide good fuel economy. The climate in which you live and drive should be a major consideration when shopping for new tires.

iii. How often you drive

The amount of driving you do each day can also influence the type of tires you need. Some people spend most of their time driving around town, while others are on the road for much longer stretches. If you do a lot of highway driving, then you will want to focus on finding tires that handle well at high speeds and don’t wear out quickly. If you spend most of your time in the city, however, you will want to find tires that are good in stop-and-go traffic and can handle a lot of starts and stops. The amount of driving you do should be taken into account when shopping for tires.

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2. Determine the Right Size

The next thing you need to do is determine the right size tire for your vehicle. You can find this information in your owner’s manual, as well as on the sidewall of your current tires. The size should consist of a few numbers and letters, such as 245/65R17 or 17-inch diameter. When it comes to finding the right tire size for your car or truck, you need to make sure that the new tires are compatible with your wheel rims. You also want to make sure that the new tires are not too small or too large for your vehicle. The wrong size tire can impact the performance and handling of your vehicle, so it is important to get it right. Here is how size is represented on a tire sidewall:

P215/65R15 95H

The first number (215) is the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number (65) is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire sidewall as a percentage of the width. The third number (15) is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches. The fourth letter (R) is the construction type, which indicates how the tire was made. The fifth number (95) is the load index, which is a code that corresponds to the maximum weight that the tire can carry. The sixth letter (H) is the speed rating, which is a code that corresponds to the maximum speed that the tire can handle.

3. Compare Prices

Once you have determined the right size and type of tire for your needs, you can start shopping around for the best price. The best way to compare prices is to shop online, as you can easily find deals and discounts. Here are some tricks you can use to get the best price on tires:

i. Compare prices at different stores, both online and offline

Before you buy tires, it is a good idea to get quotes from several different stores. You can use online tools to easily compare prices, or you can call around to local shops and ask for quotes. By comparing prices at different stores, you can find the best deal on tires in your area.

ii. Use coupons and discounts

Many tire retailers offer coupons and discounts that can save you money on your purchase. Be sure to check for these before you buy, as they can help you get the best price on tires.

iii. Look for sales

Another way to save money on tires is to look for sales. Many retailers offer sales on tires throughout the year, so it is worth keeping an eye out for these.

iv. Buy in bulk

If you need to buy more than one tire, you may be able to get a discount by buying in bulk. The more tires you buy, the more you may be able to save.

4. Reviews & Recommendations

Once you have found the right size and type of tire for your needs and compared prices at different stores, you can read reviews to see what other drivers think. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family who have recently bought tires. By reading reviews and getting recommendations, you can be sure that you are buying the best tires for your needs. To know if a tire is good or not, keep the following factors in mind:

i. Tread life

One of the most important factors to consider when buying tires is tread life. This is the amount of time that the tire will last before it needs to be replaced. The tread life of a tire depends on several factors, such as the type of tire, the size of the tire, and how it is used. For example, if you drive a lot in wet weather, you will likely need to replace your tires more often than someone who drives mostly on dry roads.

ii. Handling and performance

Another important factor to consider when buying new tires is how the tire handles and performs on the road. You want to make sure that the tires are safe and provide good handling and performance, as this can improve your driving experience. Be sure to test drive the tires before you buy them to see how they feel, and ask for recommendations from other drivers if you are not sure.

iii. Traction

Traction is the ability of a tire to grip the road. This is important for safety, as it can help you avoid accidents. The amount of traction that a tire has depends on the type of tire, as well as the tread design. Be sure to choose tires with good traction for your needs.

5. Installation

Once you have bought the right tires for your needs, you will need to have them installed. Many tire retailers offer installation services, so be sure to ask about this when you are shopping around. The cost of installation can vary depending on the retailer, as well as the type of tire you are buying. Be sure to get a quote for installation before you buy tires to be sure you are getting the best deal.

6. Warranty

When you are buying tires, be sure to ask about the warranty. Most tire manufacturers offer a warranty on their products, so be sure to ask about this when you are making your purchase. The length of the warranty can vary depending on the manufacturer, as well as the type and size of the tire. A longer warranty can be a good sign, as it shows that the manufacturer is confident in their products. However, remember that even tires with a long warranty may need to be replaced eventually, so be sure to keep up with regular maintenance such as rotation and alignment.

7. Maintenance

Once you have bought and installed new tires, it is important to take care of them. This includes regular maintenance such as rotation and alignment, as well as checking the pressure and tread regularly. By taking care of your tires, you can extend their life and improve their performance. Some retailers even offer discounts on maintenance services, so it is a good idea to stay on top of these regular checks.

Benefits of Buying Good Tyres

There are many benefits to buying good tires. Here are 5 benefits that are most important:

1. Safety

One of the most important benefits of buying good tires is safety. Good tires can help you avoid accidents by providing good traction and handling. This can improve your driving experience and help keep you safe on the road. The safety benefits of good tires are especially important for drivers who drive frequently in wet weather or on icy roads. Tyres that are designed for these conditions, such as all-weather or winter tires, can help you stay safe in even the worst driving conditions.

2. Performance

Another benefit of buying good tires is performance. When you have high-quality tires that are designed for your needs, you can enjoy better handling and improved performance on the road. This can make your driving experience more enjoyable and help you get where you need to go more efficiently.

3. Fuel efficiency

The fuel efficiency of your car can also be improved by buying good tires. When your tires are properly inflated and have good tread, they can reduce resistance on the road and help you save fuel. This can save you money over time, as well as help reduce emissions from your car. With the rising cost of fuel, this can be a significant benefit for many drivers.

4. Comfort

Good tires can also improve the comfort of your ride. The right tires can reduce vibration and provide a smoother ride. This can make long journeys more comfortable, as well as improve the overall quality of your driving experience. Comfortable driving can also improve your focus and reduce driver fatigue, which can make you a safer driver.

5. Reliability

Buying good tires can help ensure that your car is reliable. By taking care of your tires and ensuring that they are in good condition at all times, you can prevent them from wearing out too quickly or failing unexpectedly. This can help you avoid unexpected repairs or breakdowns, and keep your car on the road for longer.

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FAQs: How do I know if my tires need to be replaced?

There are several signs that your tires may need to be replaced, such as uneven wear, cracks or cuts in the sidewall, or tread depth that is below the minimum legal limit. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your tires inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine if they need to be replaced.

How often should I replace my tires?

The frequency with which you need to replace your tires will depend on a variety of factors, including driving habits, climate, and terrain. Generally speaking, most drivers should plan to have their tires replaced about every 2-3 years, or when the tread depth is below 4/32″. However, this may vary depending on your specific situation. It is always best to consult with a qualified mechanic to get their recommendation on when to replace your tires.

How much do new tires cost?

The cost of new tires will vary depending on the type and size of tire you need, as well as the brand. Generally speaking, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50-$200 per tire, although prices can range higher or lower depending on the specific tire you choose. To get an accurate estimate of how much new tires will cost for your car, it is best to consult with a local mechanic or tire shop.

When it comes time to buy new tires for your car, it is important to do your research and choose the right set of tires for your needs. By considering the safety, performance, fuel efficiency, comfort, and reliability benefits of good tires, you can make an informed decision about which set of tires is best for you.