4 Things to Consider When Looking for New Tires
If you’re feeling overwhelmed during your tire shopping experience at a tire shop near you, there’s good news – you’re not alone! With so many options, knowing what to look for is challenging for most drivers. But getting it right is important. Choosing the optimal tires for your vehicle is crucial for safety, performance, and the overall driving experience. Before visiting tire stores or searching for tire replacement options near you, it’s essential to do your research and understand what to look for. This article explains four things to consider when navigating the tire-buying process and finding the best place to buy tires.
Tire Type and Size
Let’s start with the basics. The first step in finding the right tires for your vehicle is determining the correct tire type and size. Tire “type” refers to the category of tire suited for your driving needs, such as all-season, summer, winter, all-terrain tires, snow tires, or performance tires.
Of course, choosing the right tire size for your vehicle is crucial. You can find sizing information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the sidewall of your current tires. The tire size is typically written as a series of numbers and letters (i.e., P215/65R16). Take a photo of these numbers before heading into the shop to confirm compatibility with your vehicle.
We want to make your tire search seamless, so we included an easy-to-use search tool to help you find the right tire sizes on our website. Just input your vehicle’s tire specs, or your vehicle’s license plate number and our tire tool will give you several options that will fit, including tires from top tire brands available.
Tread Pattern and Depth
A tire’s tread pattern and depth play an important role in overall performance and grip on the road. Tread patterns are designed to provide traction in different driving conditions. For example, all-season tires typically have a moderate tread pattern suitable for a range of weather conditions. In contrast, winter tires feature deeper treads and aggressive patterns for enhanced grip on snow and ice. SUV tires and all-terrain tires also have unique tread patterns optimized for their specific applications.
When inspecting tires, pay close attention to the tread depth, which refers to the thickness of the tread. Tires with deeper treads are ideal for wet or slippery conditions. As tires wear down over time, their tread depth decreases, indicating it may be time to purchase a new set. Monitor tread depth regularly and replace your tires when they reach the minimum manufacturer recommendations. This process only takes a few seconds and can greatly enhance your safety on the road.
Tire Performance Ratings
Tire manufacturers use performance ratings to indicate a set’s capabilities in certain areas like traction, handling, and treadwear. Understanding these ratings can help you choose tires that align with your driving preferences and needs, ensuring you get the best tire recommendations for your vehicle.
The UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grade) rating is the most common performance rating, which provides information about the tire’s treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance. Treadwear ratings indicate the tire’s expected lifespan, with higher numbers indicating longer wear. Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates based on the average driver. Traction ratings are crucial for measuring safety. They indicate the tire’s ability to grip the road under braking. Finally, temperature ratings indicate the tire’s ability to dissipate heat efficiently.
You may encounter other performance metrics like speed and load index during your search. Speed ratings indicate the maximum speed at which the tire can safely operate, while load index ratings specify the maximum weight capacity of the tire. If you’re purchasing a set for a sports car or work truck tires, these numbers can make all the difference in your eventual choice.
The expert and certified technicians at Dobbs Tire & Auto, your leading discount tire retailer, can help you better understand the various ratings and how they might impact a tire set’s longevity and performance.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Lastly, it’s necessary to consider your budget and the long-term value of the tires you’re thinking about buying. Like with most other products, you get what you pay for. It’s undoubtedly tempting to opt for cheap tires but remember that quality tires are an investment in your safety and driving experience. Cheaper tires may save you a few bucks in the short term, but diminished performance and quicker wear can cost you more in the long run.
To get the most out of your budget, compare tire prices across different brands and models, considering the performance factors mentioned earlier in this article and searching for the best tire prices. Don’t forget to look for specials or discount tire deals that can help you save money without compromising on quality. Read customer reviews from drivers who have firsthand experience with the tires you’re considering. Our goal is to help you find tires that strike a balance between affordability and quality.
Finally, consider the long-term value of the tires in terms of how they impact fuel efficiency and maintenance costs. High-quality tires with low rolling resistance can improve fuel economy and reduce fuel costs over time. Likewise, tires with superior treadwear characteristics may require less frequent replacement, saving you money on maintenance expenses (not to mention protecting you from expensive accidents or mishaps on the road). Don’t forget to ask about a tire credit card or financing options that can make your purchase more manageable.
Shop the Industry’s Best at a Dobbs Tire & Auto Location Near You
We know tires like nobody else in the St. Louis area. But even more importantly, the expert and certified technicians at Dobbs Tire & Auto, your trusted discount tire provider, take pride in ensuring you leave our lot with the best set for your vehicle.
If you’re looking for new tires or considering an upgrade soon, visit one of our 43 convenient locations to simplify the process. A Dobbs team member will help you find a high-performing, durable set that fits your vehicle, driving style, and budget.
