Things to Consider Before Buying Tires for Your Car

The tires on your car will greatly determine how well your vehicle drives. For example, if your car hits a sheet of ice and you’ve got old tires, you can bet that you’re going to slide. You’ll have little to no control over the handling of your car. On the other hand, if your car has the right tires, you can hit the brakes in an icy situation and stop on a dime. Don’t let your tires be the reason an everyday driving situation becomes dangerous. From tire and wheel warranties to the type of tire you need, there’s a lot to know when picking out the right set of tires for your car.

Brand New vs. Used Tires

Many car owners debate whether buying used tires is really worth the cost. They often debate between buying used wheels or newer models. While the price discrepancy may cause you to lean towards a used tire, it’s important to think about your safety. It’s difficult to determine the care that’s been taken of a used tire. They’re not always accompanied by maintenance reports. Plus, there’s no way to know whether or not they’ve previously been in a collision, or how long they’ve been on a different car. These factors impact the safety of the tire. With new tires, there’s no need to worry about where they’ve previously been. You know that your car is the first that they’ve been on.

Tire Size

Before you select a tire, check out which size is best for your vehicle. If you’re not sure where to find this information, take a look at the placard next to the driver’s side door. Typically a tire size will read something like, “P215/65 R15.” These numbers and letters refer to the width, height, and diameter of the recommended tire size. With this information, it’s much easier to select a tire that fits within the wheel beds of your vehicle.

Handling

Not all tires will provide the same type of ride. Before selecting a new set, determine what kind of ride you’re hoping to get. For example, some tires will improve the handling of the car, but may not be as smooth or comfortable as other tires. Other tires may increase road noise or decrease gas efficiency. Find a brand that delivers exactly what you’re looking for. Your new tires should improve your braking ability and handle comfortably.

Which Season?

When shopping for tires, you’ll notice that some are winter tires, some are summer tires, and some are all-season tires. While there’s no right answer as to which you should choose, it’s important that you understand the difference between the three. Winter tires aren’t meant to be used all year long. Instead, they’re designed to be put on when the roads get cold and icy. Likewise, summer tires are best suited for sports cars or performance machines during the hot months. However, all-season tires can be used no matter the time of year or weather.

So, which are the best tires for your car? That depends on what you’re looking for. Finding a new tire with a great tire and wheel warranty is important. If you’re not sure which tire would be best for your vehicle, allow the experts at Wheel and Tire Care to help. Contact us today to learn more about your tire options.