Tires might seem like the simplest part of a vehicle – after all, they’re just containers of compressed air – but the options for replacement can be overwhelming, so it is important to know what you should be considering when you are looking at getting new ones.
Tires are the only part of your car that comes into contact with the road, and they are a key part of both the performance and the safety of your vehicle.
With so many brands, sizes, and types available, from Kenda all-weather tires through to Sport ones, you need to consider several questions before making a decision. These include:
- What type of tire does my car require? Vehicle manufacturers have specific requirements for the tires you can choose.
- What type of driver am I? More aggressive drivers need to consider additional wear, and if you have a long commute, you want something that makes the ride comfortable.
- What is the weather like where I am? Wet roads, ice and snow, or different terrains?
- How much do I want to pay? Do I have a budget, or should I be considering tire finance?
Finding the Right Tire for your Vehicle
The information you need about your tires is printed right there on the tire wall. You will find the following information:
- Tire width
- Aspect Ratio
- Tire designation (usually radial)
- Diameter
- Load rating with speed rating.
- Heaviest spot
- Tread wear rating
- Traction/temperature rating
- Weather rating
- Vehicle-specific markings
- Manufacturer information and tire materials
Straight Replacement or Upgrade?
The most straightforward way to replace your tires is to get the same ones that came with the vehicle, or that the manufacturer recommends.
These are usually some types of all-season tires, which offer a reasonable level of all-round ride, performance, handling, and grip.
Other types of tires, such as high-performance tires, are designed for those who drive more aggressively, offering better grip for sharper handling. These are sportier feeling when driving, with often a stiffer ride, but are less reliable in winter weather due to lack of traction.
Winter tires are better in snow and ice, while summer tires deal better with hot asphalt and wetter weather.
Upgrade Options
Firstly, let’s consider the safety aspect of tires a bit more. A puncture can ruin your day, and in some cases can leave you in a dangerous position.
Run flat tires are designed to be capable of travelling at a low speed for a short distance even after a puncture or some other catastrophic lack of pressure. This means you can get your vehicle to a repair shop rather than trying to replace it on the side of the road.
The downside to these tires traditionally has been giving up some ride comfort, as the sidewalls of the tire have to be firmer to be able to support the weight of the vehicle without the compressed air. However, more modern run flat tires are more comfortable these days.
The simplest option for an upgrade is to get a higher performance tire that is the same size and profile as the ones that you currently have. You can choose as above to get winter tires as you head into the cold season, or you can go for all-terrain tires if you are looking to explore a bit more off the beaten track.
Finally, you might want to go for a tire that is wider or has a lower profile. This can be achievable, but you need to be confident that the upgraded tire size is not going to rub on the bodywork, especially the arches, or on the suspension – that will have an impact on both performance and maintenance costs.
If in doubt, ask an expert – tire safety is paramount, and performance can be affected if you make the wrong decision. Overall, choosing a reliable tire brand like Kenda with an all-season tire is the simplest and safest replacement option.
