How to choose car tires - all you have to know

Before making a decision as important as choosing the tires of our car, we must carefully assess factors such as how we are going to use the car, what kind of roads we are going to drive on a regular basis or what is the climate of our place of home. You have to bear in mind that car tires play a fundamental role in terms of the safety of the vehicle and the occupants. The adherence of the car to the road depends on the quality and condition of the tires, and the wear and tear that they suffer (due to the conditions in which the road is located and its unevenness) directly affects their safety. Therefore, a set-up of the tires can really make a difference. If you want to know how to choose the tires of the car, we will explain it in detail.

How to know what tires I can put on my car

Normally, manufacturers recommend that we use the standard tires that the car brings; This is an option, but we can also choose to change the car's tires for ones of our choice. In the latter case, we have to look carefully at a code that appears on the side of the wheels. It is about three numbers and two letters . If the code were 12A3B, this would be the meaning:

  • 1 = width of the tire in millimeters.
  • 2 = relationship between the height and width of the wheel profile.
  • A = structure of the wheel.
  • 3 = inner diameter in inches.
  • B = speed code.

Types of car tires

From the point of view of the weather, we must take into account what is the prevailing climate in our city or that of the places where we will usually circulate. Thus, we will know which one to choose between these three types of tires :

  • Summer tire.
  • Winter tire.
  • Mixed tire

Each of these types of wheels differs in issues such as width or diameter, so that each of them is prepared to offer greater safety and, also, performance, depending on the type of climate.

How to choose a good tire: tips

Depending on certain factors, one type of wheel or another for our car will be safer:

  • Type of driving : this also has something to do when choosing a tire. So, if our way of carrying the car is more sporty, we will need tires with a lot of grip and stability.
  • Type of road through which we circulate : if we are going to go usually by highways, we will need high performance tires; while if we use the car only in the city, we will choose tires with low rolling resistance.
  • Place where we buy the tires : this is also important, since it depends on where we get the tires, we can have the confidence that they will be of quality. Also, if we go to specialized sites, they will be able to answer all our doubts, if we have them.
  • Tires at all times or winter and summer : it is inevitable, but the temperature affects. So we will have to take this aspect into account when choosing our tires.

When should the car tires be changed

Many drivers do not know when to change the tires of the car. Sometimes it can be evident at first sight, as for example in the presence of visible punctures or wear, but not always. To know when you should change the tires of the car, keep in mind these indications:

  • Look at the drawing of the wheels : if the tire is in good condition, the depth of the borders will be between 8 and 8.5 millimeters.
  • Measure the depth of the drawing of the tires : if you do not have a depth gauge, a tool specially designed for this, you can use a coin of 1 euro. If the rubber covers the golden circle, it is that the tire is in perfect condition. Whereas if the opposite happens, you must change the wheel of your car.
  • Check the sides of the wheel : this part is usually rounder than the rest of the tire, so it tends to wear before.

However, if your tires are more than 5 years old, you should check them at least once a year. And if it exceeds 10 years should be changed urgently, as yes or yes will be worn. Changing the wheels of the car in time, you will avoid many accidents.

Which brand of tires is better

This is something that many people ask when it comes to choosing a good tire for the car. Choosing a good brand is not only essential for the safety of the passengers, but also for the duration and effectiveness of the car's wheels. The Hankook brand is one of the most known, economic and reliable in the market. In addition, buying a new tire from a legit brand also ensures that you have the manufacturer's warranty.

Buy cheap used tires: bad idea

Although there are those who choose to resort to second-hand tires to be cheaper, is an option that we discourage completely, because, however much the seller assures you that the wheels are in good condition, it may be the opposite and You could take a good scare driving.

If you liked this article on how to choose the tires of the car, you may also be interested in this other article on How to choose the tires for an SUV.