9 Tips for Buying Tires
Buying new tires for your car is an important decision that should be carefully thought out. Driving with worn out tires seriously reduces your ability to control your car, especially in bad weather or on rough roads. To ensure you have the safest possible driving experience, make sure your tires are changed regularly. Find a tire dealer that will work with you to get the best prices for your new tires.
Here are some tips on how you can find better quality tires at affordable prices:
1. Inspect your current tires for wear and tear
Your car’s tires will wear over time, and it is your responsibility to make sure they are safe for driving. When you look at your current tires, check the tread on each tire; if any of them don’t have enough tread for road safety, replace them right away. Also check the sides of tires for any cuts or bulges as those will need to be replaced straight away
2. Consult your owner’s manual for sizing and speed rating
Most new tires will come with a label specifying the speed they are meant to be used at. Your owner’s manual will also specify this information. Make sure that when you buy new tires, you go for ones that have the same or similar size and speed ratings as your current ones. This will help ensure that your car’s brakes, suspension and other systems continue to work as they should after you fit the new tires
3. Identify the tire code system
This is a system to help you identify the different types of tires available so that you can match them to your particular car’s needs. The tire code system will typically have two numbers in it, such as 205/55 R16, which refers to each tire’s width and sidewall height dimensions. The second number in this example represents the tire’s aspect ratio, which is its height in relation to its width. The higher the number in this example, then the taller your tires are compared to their width
4. Consider new rims
If your car’s rims are more than seven years old, consider replacing them when you get your next set of tires. This will improve the performance of your wheels, while also updating the look of your vehicle. New wheels will also allow you to switch between low-profile tires and standard ones without worrying about buying the correct size each time
5. Buy a full matching set
If possible, purchase all of your new tires at the same time. This is wise because it’s difficult to find the exact tire you are looking for if you buy one at a time. A full matching set will also help keep your wheels balanced after installation, which can lead to less vibration.
6. Consider brand reputation
When you are buying tires, it is worth considering the brand name that manufactured them. There are many big names in tire manufacturing like Goodyear, Bridgestone Potenza, Pirelli and Michelin. If you buy a tire from one of these companies, then there is a good chance they will give you good warranty coverage and offer great quality products
7. Set a budget
It is worth setting a budget for your tire purchase so that you stay in control of your spending. Your budget should consider the best prices on high-quality tires at reputable dealers, and it will also include any other costs such as new rims or installation fees. If you can’t afford to spend too much money on purchasing new tires, then consider using the tips above to help you get the quality tires you need for the cheapest price
8. Shop around for a seasonal deal
If you need your tires to last a long time, then it could be worth waiting until winter or summer to buy them. This will depend on where you live and the conditions you usually drive in; if your tires are more likely to wear out quickly due to changing weather conditions, buying them at the right time of year can save you money. During particular seasons, you can take advantage of sales like winter tire deals, so it can be worth it to wait for specific promotions
9. Does your spare need to be replaced
If you need to buy a full matching set of tires, then it is worth considering if your current spare will match your new set. If it doesn’t, purchase a set of five to ensure your spare will be a perfectly balanced replacement
When you’re looking for new tires, keep the above tips in mind to save money and make sure your new wheels are a good fit.