Tyre Buying Tips: What to Look for When Buying New Tyres

Tyres play a major role in the overall safety and performance of your vehicle. That’s why you should be extra careful at the time of purchasing new tyres. By selecting the best-fitting tyres, you can improve the overall driving experience. It can also enhance safety and fuel efficiency. But most vehicle owners don’t have a clear idea about it. That’s why we thought of sharing some useful tyre-buying tips with you. 

Figure out what the best tyre tips is 

The very first thing you should do during tyre replacement is to understand the type of tyres to buy. You can divide the tyres into three main categories. They include: 

Summer tyres 

Summer tyres excel in warm weather conditions. They have wider and shallower tread grooves. As a result, you can expect them to improve road contact. Alongside, you can experience better dry traction as well. The soft rubber compounds in summer tyres allow better flexibility and grip. It can offer better handling and cornering stability to you.

Winter Tyres

If you live in an area with harsh winter conditions, investing in winter tyres would be a wise decision. Winter tyres are engineered with unique tread patterns and compounds to enhance traction. They can also offer better performance with braking and handling snow and ice. Having winter tyres can significantly improve safety and control during the colder months.

All-Season Tyres

All-season tyres are capable of offering reasonable performance in a variety of weather conditions. They include light snow and rain as well. These tyres offer a balance of wet and dry traction. As a result, you can consider them as a versatile choice for drivers. If you experience moderate climate changes throughout the year, you can go for them. 

Consider tyre tread depth 

The tread depth plays an important role in your tyre performance. This becomes prominent when it comes to traction and wet performance. A deeper tread depth provides a better grip on wet roads. It can reduce the risk of hydroplaning and enhance overall safety. As a general rule, it’s recommended to replace your tyres when the tread depth reaches approximately 4/32 of an inch or less. Some tyres come with tread wear indicators. They allow you to easily monitor the remaining tread depth.

Take a look at traction 

Traction refers to the ability of a tyre to grip the road surface. This is essential for braking, accelerating, and cornering. Factors like tread design, rubber compound, and tyre pressure all contribute to the traction capabilities of a tyre. That’s why you should look for tyres with optimized tread patterns. Moreover, you need to keep an eye on specialized compounds designed to deliver superior traction in various driving conditions.

Don’t ignore tyre size

Selecting the correct tyre size is important for maintaining proper vehicle handling. It can also help you with supporting load-carrying capacity and overall safety. The owner’s manual of your vehicle will specify the recommended tyre size. You should always adhere to these specifications when buying new tyres. Deviating from the recommended size can lead to issues such as altered speedometer readings. It can also result in poor handling and increased wear on suspension components.

Consider load index

The load index indicates the maximum weight a tyre can safely carry when properly inflated. This information is important for vehicles that frequently carry heavy loads. If you operate your vehicle under demanding conditions, make sure to pay special attention to this. By referring to the owner’s manual, you can get a guide on the right load index you should be looking for. Then you can go ahead and buy new tyres. 

Focus on speed rating

The speed rating denotes the maximum sustainable speed a tyre can safely handle. Most passenger vehicles don’t require high-performance speed ratings. However, it is better to choose tyres that meet or exceed the speed capabilities of your vehicle. Improper speed ratings can lead to tyre failure at high speeds. This can eventually compromise your safety on the road. Hence, it is essential to ask questions from your tyre dealership and pick the right set of tyres. 

Check tyre pressure

Proper tyre pressure is crucial for optimal performance. It can also enhance fuel efficiency and tyre lifespan. Under-inflated tyres can lead to excessive wear and compromise handling. It can also increase rolling resistance. This would result in higher fuel consumption. Conversely, over-inflated tyres can cause a rougher ride and decreased traction. That’s why you should keep the owner’s manual as the ultimate guide when buying new tyres. On top of that, you should regularly check the tyre pressure after purchase. Then you can adjust the pressure as needed.

Pay attention to tyre sidewall

The sidewall of a tyre is responsible for protecting the internal structure from impacts. It also plays a major role in ensuring stability. You need to look for tyres with reinforced sidewalls. This becomes important if you frequently drive on rough or uneven terrain. Strong sidewalls can better withstand punctures, cuts, and other types of damage.

Take a look at the tyre rubber compound 

The rubber compound of your tyre plays a major role in its performance characteristics. Some compounds are optimized for wet performance. You can also find tyres that prioritize longevity or low rolling resistance. Purchasing tyres with such rubber compounds can improve fuel efficiency. You need to know your driving needs and the climate in your area when selecting the appropriate rubber compound. 

Wet Performance

Wet performance tyres are ideal for driving in areas with frequent rainfall or inclement weather conditions. Look for tyres with specialized tread patterns and compounds designed to channel water away from the contact patch. Such tyres can help you with improving traction and reducing the risk of hydroplaning.

Dry Performance

Dry performance refers to the ability that your tyres have to grip the road in dry conditions. It can affect the braking distances, cornering stability, and overall handling. Tyres with optimized tread designs and specialized compounds can provide better dry performance. They can ensure confident and responsive driving on dry roads.

Don’t ignore tyre lifespan

The lifespan of a tyre depends on various factors. They include your driving habits, road conditions, and proper maintenance. Most tyres have a lifespan of around 4-5 years. But you should not just rely on the lifespan. Alongside, it is essential to monitor tread depth and any visible signs of wear or damage as well. Replacing tyres promptly when needed ensures optimal safety and performance.

Handling is a critical aspect of tyre performance. It can affect the responsiveness and stability of the vehicle. It will also impact on the overall control you have. Tyres with optimized tread patterns, stiff sidewalls, and specialized compounds can provide better handling characteristics. It can also help you with improving cornering and manoeuvrability.

Keep an eye on noise levels and comfort 

Some tyres can generate excessive noise. It can be distracting and contribute to driver fatigue over long journeys. If noise levels are a concern, consider tyres designed with noise-reducing technologies. This is where you should go for tyres with specialized tread patterns or advanced construction methods.

Similarly, you must also look at tyre comfort. People often overlook comfort when getting new tyres. But it can greatly impact the overall driving experience. Factors like tyre construction, sidewall stiffness, and tread design can influence ride quality. Consider tyres designed for a smooth and comfortable ride. This becomes important if you frequently travel on rough or uneven roads.

Look at fuel efficiency as well 

The rolling resistance of a tyre can significantly impact fuel efficiency. Tyres with low rolling resistance require less energy to maintain motion. As a result, they can offer better fuel economy. This factor is particularly important for drivers who prioritize cost-savings. You will also be able to contribute to the environment by getting such tyres. 

Don’t overlook tyre warranty

Many tyre manufacturers offer warranties that cover defects in materials and workmanship. When purchasing new tyres, inquire about the warranty coverage as well. You should ask questions including the duration and any specific conditions or limitations. A comprehensive warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.

Go for the right tyre brands

Last but not least, you need to stick to the right tyre brands. This is where you should go ahead with reputable manufacturers such as Goodyear. Make sure to spend some time and go through reviews. Then you can understand the strengths and weaknesses of each brand. Based on that, you can make the right decision.

Final words

You can refer to this as an ultimate guide when you purchase new tyres. It will help you to make the right decision with tyre replacement. Keep this checklist and start hunting tyres today. If you are from Brisbane, you can contact us at Brendale Goodyear for the best tyres. By helping you to evaluate these factors, we can ensure that you make the right purchase with new tyres.