Buying tires is easy because there are literally thousands of tires available in the market in different types and sizes. What is difficult is finding that tire that exactly matches the car’s performance and ability to tackle any kind of weather condition.
How to choose the right type of tire for your car
There are 3 common types of tires: all-season, summer, and winter tires. Most car owners prefer the all-season tires because they are more economically efficient than buying a set of summer tires and then a second set for winter. All-season tires are designed to deliver a well-rounded performance although you cannot call them outstanding.
Summer tires as the name implies are designed for summer months while winter tires have more outstanding traction on snow and ice. Summer tires deliver on handling and dry/wet braking while winter tires deliver fair braking ability on cleared roads. This means that there is no single tire type that is outstanding in all weather conditions.
How to identify the tire you need
All-season tires have S and T speed ratings. S rating means that the tire can safely maintain up to 112mph speed. T rating means that the tire can safely handle a speed up to 118mph. You will have better handling and control at higher speeds and the tire can take the extra heat. However, all-season tires handle better at slower speeds with long mileage and all-weather grip. All-season tires are ideal for SUVs and mainstream cars.
Performance all-season tires come in H and V speed ratings on new cars. H rating means it safely maintains speed up to 130mph while V speed rating means it is speed-rated up to 149mph. This type of tire has a better cornering grip than the S and T speed rated all-season tires. They are usually used for upgraded wheels.
Ultra-high performance all-season and summer tires have ZR-, W- and Y- speed ratings on performance sedans and sports cars. ZR was first introduced for cars with speeds of more than 150mph but since speeds has dramatically increased beyond what was believed to be the maximum required, ZR was subdivided into Y, W, and Z. When buying new tires choose the speed ratings that are recommended by the manufacturer. You can opt for a higher speed-rated tire but not lower.
All-season and all-terrain truck tires always come in large sizes because they are designed for hauling and towing. You will see these types of tires on light-duty pickups and SUVs. They can be used for off-roading because of the more aggressive tread pattern.
Winter or snow tires can be easily identified by the mountain and snowflake symbol on the tire’s sidewall. Winter tires have to be purchased in sets of four for optimized braking and handling.
There are high-quality tire collections that are certain to exceed expectations. The great looks of the tires are matched with superb functionality to set your car apart from the rest. Trusted brands guarantee that the tires are well packed and free from any defects.