CAR TIRES

The first step to properly buying tires is knowing when your tires need to be replaced. The “penny test” is the most common method: insert a penny into the tire’s tread, and the top of Lincoln’s head should disappear. If it does not, the tread is low and the tires need to be replaced. When using the penny test, check each tire in the center of the tread as well as on both the interior and exterior edges to check for uneven wear.

Tire makers usually emphasize one quality or another for each product line. Some tires deliver superior traction on dry or wet roads. Others bite into snow. Still others are noted for excellent steering response, a smooth ride, or long tread life. Which to choose still depends largely on what you drive, where you live.

Another indication that it is time to buy tires is to note any uneven wear, particularly on the sides of the tire where the interior belts may poke through in extreme cases. If tires are uneven, the car may pull to the side or there may be excessive vibrations or other handling difficulties. Most new tires come with wear indicator bumps – small threads of rubber along the tread. When these bumps have worn off, it is time to consider purchasing new tires.

It is best to purchase new car tires in the fall, before the wet, slippery winter weather sets in. As tires wear, the surface area of the tread increases, which gives tires better traction in dry conditions but makes them more hazardous in wet or icy weather. Newer tires will provide better traction and control during the winter.

It is important to know what types of tires to buy when replacing worn tires. Always choose tires that meet or exceed the load capacity and safety ratings of your original tires, and be sure to choose tires that are a suitable fit for the size of the wheel and type of vehicle. There are more than a dozen basic types of tires to choose from, and it is vital to select a style that matches you’re driving needs. The most popular types of tires are: -All season or all-weather tires. These are some of the most affordable tires and are engineered to perform well in all types of weather to a moderate degree, though extreme weather conditions (regular flooding, frequent snowstorms, etc.) may require specialized tires.

Winter tires: Winter tires are the new name for snow tires. They feature tread designs and special rubber compounds made to grip well in deep snow and on ice. But the trade-off is often quick wear and compromised ride and handling on dry roads. Use winter tires during winter month’s only -Heavy duty or heavy load tires. These are typically more durable than regular tires and are meant for vehicles undergoing considerable stress, such as rough roads, heavy hauling, or changing terrain. -Performance or touring tires. These tires are engineered not only for exemplary performance, but also for aesthetic appeal and style. They are often chosen for sports cars or luxury vehicles.

• Think about the terrain you cover frequently as well as the weather in your area. For most cars, all season or all-weather tires are a great choice. Keeping in mind that if you drive in an area with a lot of rain or snow, you want tires that provide good traction

• Try to replace tires with the same ones that came with your car. You will find design, size, and brand information printed on your current tires, including the height, width, diameter, speed rating, load rating, and other crucial measurements.

• Always have tires professionally installed. This is also the perfect time to have the tires balanced and aligned (rarely required, unless of an accident) if necessary. Be sure that if you are buying tires from someplace other than your dealer that you are not voiding warranties or other protection programs covering your car.

• Care for tires by regularly checking the inflation to extend the life of our tires, as well as it helps with gas mileage.

If you purchase mismatched tires you may get an uneven ride and excessive wear on different tires, as well as possible handling difficulties. Tire Rotation:

Tire rotation is switching the position of the four tires tire on the car. It helps to maintain equal tread wear and is critical to gain the maximum life for your tires.

Your owner’s manual states the recommended rotation interval and pattern; generally a rotation interval of 6,000 miles is recommended. The rotation pattern varies with different makes and models, which shows the tire locations during rotation. Some vehicles have different size tires on the front and back or directional tires. This limits the locations that a tire may take on the vehicle. When in doubt, check the owner’s manual. During tire rotation provides an excellent opportunity to have the tires and wheels balanced, as well as checking your brakes.

Spare Tire: Many spare tires on today's cars are "much smaller" than your regular tires. They are meant to be used only in case of flat and only to be driven about 50 miles at low speeds. There primary function is to save trunk space, weight and get you to the nearing location for tire repair. They cannot be utilized in your tire rotation, as that is not their intended function.