Buying new car tires can be a stressful and draining experience. Your previous tires might have probably worn out, and it’s time to invest in new ones. With the wide array of tire types and sizes to choose from, it can be difficult to end up investing in the right ones. But don’t worry; in this guide, I’ll be giving you simple tips on how to choose a car tire.
But, before making your purchase, you need to ask yourself these questions:
- What is my budget?
- Which tires would fit my car?
- Am I confident to buy them on my own? Or should I ask for professional help?
Now that you have answered these questions, you should have an idea about the tires you should get. Let’s discuss the common types of tires.
All-season tires.
Most vehicles nowadays are equipped with all-season tires as they are meant to withstand various weather elements. Given their four-season nature, most drivers expect these tires to serve them on icy roads. However, dedicated snow tires can provide better traction for you on snowy and icy paths. There are two main sub-types:
High-performance all-season tires: These tires provide better handling than basic all-season tires. They tend to have more grip on the road and give a sportier feel. That’s mostly why they are intended for sports cars.
Grand touring all-season tires: In comparison to high-performance all-season tires, they tend to have a lower profile but still provide excellent handling.
Summer tires.
These types of tires are often referred to as three-season tires as they are specifically designed for both wet and dry roads. They help sharpen your steering response and help increase your cornering traction. As their name suggests, they are mostly intended for warmer climates with occasional rains.
Winter tires.
Winter tires, also referred to as snow tires, provide your vehicle with maximum traction on snowy or icy roads. The traction these tires provide in cold weather is above and beyond any other type of tire out there. As these tires are specifically intended for cold weather, it is not recommended to use them all year round. It may compromise the performance of your car while driving.
Tire size and other factors to consider.
When selecting the right tire for your vehicle, you have to consider the type and size of tires it came with in the first place, as this would help maintain the performance and safety of your vehicle.
You must be aware of the speed rating and tire size for your vehicle before making a selection. You can find this information on the sidewall of the tires that are presently on your car right now. Always consult your car’s manual or ask for professional help if you’re unsure about the recommended tire measurements.