Tires are an integral part of every vehicle. How much do you know about purchasing and maintaining them, though? You don’t need to be a mechanic to find basic automobile knowledge useful. If you’ve been hoping to learn more about replacing your tires, keep reading to find answers to some of the most common questions.
How Can You Save Money on Tires?
A new set of tires can burn a hole in your pocket if you aren’t mindful. Thankfully, there are multiple ways to save some cash on your purchase. Shopping for tires online can help you compare prices, locate coupons, and find the best deals. Discount stores such as Sam’s Club and Walmart are also great choices for a good price, but they may have fewer choices. You can enjoy extra savings during some prime shopping seasons such as Black Friday, Christmas, and late spring.
What Tires Does My Car Need?
There are different tire specifications for each vehicle. The size is an obvious factor, but you must also match the load index and speed rating. Your load index correlates with how much weight can be supported by the tire, while the speed rating must match your operating speeds to ensure the best handling. Often, the best option is to find replacement tires that are the same as the original manufacturer.
When Should You Replace Your Tires?
Driving with old, worn-out tires can be dangerous. Poor tires increase your stopping distance and the chance of hydroplaning. One way to know when your tires are reaching the end of their useful life is to measure the tread depth. You may notice a decrease in performance once the tread hits 4/32″ and tires are officially considered done at 2/32″. The age of your tires also plays a part because the components break down over time. You should start monitoring them closely at six years and change them once they are a decade old.
Do You Need Specialty Tires?
The need for specialty tires depends on your driving habits and climate. For many, all-season or highway tires are perfectly acceptable for their day-to-day driving. If you live somewhere with a harsh, snowy season, upgrading to winter tires with increased traction can be extremely helpful. Those who like to adventure with their vehicle may benefit from all-terrain tires. All-terrain tires can increase your safety when you wander off the blacktop and onto dirt roads, mud, or gravel. You can discuss your plans with an expert to select what will work best for you.
Are Tire Warranties All the Same?
While many tires come with warranties, there is a lot of variation in the terms. The manufacturer generally covers defects, but the other terms are set by the retailer. When making your purchase, you should compare the length of the warranties, what maintenance is included, what geographic areas are covered, and whether you’ll be protected from road hazards.
Learning about general maintenance can keep you and your vehicle safer. If you have any remaining questions, reach out to a specialist for help.
