Tire Buying Tips From Trail Tire

Buying tires can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little bit of knowledge and the right tips, you can be a tire-buying pro in no time. Keep reading for Tire Buying 101.

Introduction

Shopping for tires can be an overwhelming experience. Do you need all-season tires or winter tires? Is a smaller tire size better for fuel economy? What are all those numbers and letters on the side of the tire?

Here is a basic guide to help you select the right tires for your vehicle and driving needs.

The Different Types of Tires

There are all sorts of different types of tires out there, and each one is designed for a specific purpose. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common types of tires:

All-Season Tires: As the name implies, all-season tires are designed to perform well in a variety of conditions, including both dry and wet pavement, as well as light snow. If you live in an area with mild weather conditions, all-season tires are probably the right choice for you.

Performance Tires: Performance tires are designed for drivers who want the best possible handling and grip on dry pavement. They’re not meant for use in winter weather conditions.

Winter Tires: Also known as snow tires, winter tires are specifically designed for use in cold weather and on snowy or icy roads. If you live in an area with snowy winters, winter tires are a must.

Deciding What Tires You Need

When you’re in the market for new tires, the choices may seem overwhelming. But when you break it down, there are really only three things you need to consider: 

-Vehicle type

-Driving conditions

-Tire type

Your vehicle type will determine the size and load rating you need. The driving conditions will help you decide if you need all-season, winter or off-road tires. And finally, the tire type will help you choose between performance tires, touring tires and fuel-efficient tires.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.

Vehicle Type

The size and load rating of your tires should be matched to your vehicle’s specifications. You can find these in your owner’s manual or on a placard inside the driver’s door. If you can’t find them there, give us a call and we’ll help you out. Once you have the size and load rating, we can narrow down your choices to just a few options that will work with your vehicle.

Driving Conditions

Do you live in an area with harsh winters? Do you like to take your car off-road? Your driving conditions play a big role in deciding which type of tire is right for you. All-season tires are designed for use in wet and dry conditions, but they may not perform as well in extreme cold or heat. Winter tires are designed for use in snow and ice, but they may not perform as well on dry roads. And finally, off-road tires are designed for use on unpaved surfaces but may not perform as well on highways or city streets. 

Tire Type

Now that you know what size tire you need and what kind of driving conditions you’ll be facing, it’s time to decide which tire type is right for you. Performance tires are designed for responsive handling and high speeds. Touring tires are designed for comfort and long wear life. Fuel-efficient tires are designed to reduce rolling resistance and improve gas mileage.

How to Buy Tires

There are a few things you need to keep in mind when buying tires, such as what type of tire you need, the size, and the speed rating. 

Type: Most passenger cars come with all-season tires as standard equipment. These tires provide good traction and handling in moderate snow and on wet or dry roads. If you live in an area with severe winter weather, you may want to consider winter tires. These tires are designed to provide better traction and handling in snow and on ice.

Size: The size of the tire is important for both performance and fitment. You can find the size of your current tires in the owner’s manual or on the door placard. Once you know the size, you can start shopping for new tires. Keep in mind that not all sizes will be available at all retailers.

Speed Rating: The speed rating is the maximum speed a tire can safely maintain over a long period of time. The rating is represented by a letter (such as “S” for 112 mph or “T” for 118 mph). The speed rating is important if you often drive on the highway or if you want to maximize the performance of your vehicle.

Conclusion

Now that you know a little more about the different types of tires, you can make a more informed decision when it’s time to buy new tires. Be sure to consult with a professional to get the best advice for your specific needs.