Tires are estimated to last about three to five years before needing to be replaced. With regular maintenance, tires can last even longer, though this also varies depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. It’s important that you choose the right type of tire for your car as they’ll affect its performance, traction, and fuel efficiency. Here’s what you should know:
How Do I Know My Car Needs New Tires?
If you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your tires, the easiest thing to do is visually inspect them. Look for signs of wear and tear such as cracks, bulges, or bald spots on the treads. Tires that need to be replaced will have a tread depth of less than 2/32 inches. You can also use the penny test to check your tire’s tread depth, insert a penny into the grooves of the tire and if you’re able to see Lincoln’s head, then it’s time for new tires. Sometimes it’s a torn tire, a flat tire, or your car may just be vibrating at higher speeds – these are all signs that your car could benefit from new tires.
What Size Tires Should I Buy?
When it comes to selecting the size of your new tires, the best place to start is by checking your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended tire size. The tire size can also be found on the sidewall of your existing tires, for example, if you see a size like “P215/65 R15 95H” it means the tire is 215 millimeters wide, has an aspect ratio of 65, fits 15-inch diameter wheels and has a load index of 95.
If this seems a lot of math, don’t worry – any tire store you visit will be able to translate the numbers for you and get you the tires that are best for your vehicle.
Pick a Type
Once you know the size of tire your car needs, it’s time to start looking at what type of tire is best for you. Tires come in many different types, such as all-season, performance summer, winter, and off-road. All-terrain tires are designed to handle both on and off-road surfaces and provide a good balance between the two.
Performance tires tend to have larger tread blocks for better grip on wet roads. If you live in an area that gets cold in the winter, winter tires are a must because they perform better in ice and snow. Off-road tires feature deeper treads which provide extra traction when driving on sandy or muddy surfaces. All of these options offer different benefits, so it’s important to consider your individual needs before choosing one type over another.
Decide On a Brand
Once you’ve decided on the type of tire you need, it’s time to choose a brand. If you’re looking for a high-performance tire, some of the best options are Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear. For all-terrain tires, BFGoodrich and Cooper are popular choices. For budget-friendly options, look for tires from brands like Firestone and Kumho. America is well served with a variety of tire brands so make sure to research what’s available in your local area. Look for a manufacturer who has good ratings from consumer reports, as well as any local reviews you can find. You should also check for any recalls or safety advisories issued by the manufacturer. Usually, a local dealer will have great options that work well locally.
Check The Tire Specifications
Once you’ve chosen your brand, it’s important to make sure that the tires are compatible with your car. All tire manufacturers have a list of specifications for their products, so be sure to check these against your vehicle’s manual before making a purchase. You will want to make sure that the size, load rating, speed rating, and ply rating are all compatible with your car. Again the seller should be able to advise you on this.
Consider Affordability
Price can be an important factor in your choice of tires. Different brands and models offer different prices, so take the time to compare prices before making a purchase. Make sure you understand the factors that influence price such as performance and quality. The better the performance, the higher the price. Also, consider purchasing tires in sets rather than individually as this will usually save you money.
The Risk of Buying Cheap Tires
Cheap tires can be tempting, but it’s important to consider the risks. Low-quality tires can lead to instability and poor handling in both wet and dry conditions. This could result in an accident or at least, damage to your car from a tire blowout. It may be worth spending more on higher-quality tires that will provide greater performance and reliability.
Does it Matter Where You Buy Your Tires?
Yes, it does. It pays to shop around for the best deal. Do some research and compare prices between different stores or online retailers. Ask questions to make sure you know what tires are suitable for your car. You should also be aware of potential hidden fees such as mounting, balancing, installation, and disposal costs that could add up significantly. Furthermore, some retailers may offer services such as free tire rotations or roadside assistance which could be incredibly valuable.
Visit Vann York Toyota Tire Center For Quality Tires
It’s important to make sure you get the right tires for your car, and that’s why it pays to shop at Vann York Toyota Tire Center. Our trained technicians will help you select the right tires for your vehicle while ensuring they are properly mounted and balanced. We also offer a wide range of tire services such as tire rotation, tire balancing, flat tire repair, and more. Plus, our prices are competitive. Contact us today to learn more about your options.
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