Getting the right tires for your vehicle
It's about finding a reliable and knowledgeable tire retailer, and knowing what to ask for
Tires can often be one of the priciest things consumers buy for their rides — especially when sticker shock hits for those low-profile tires on large wheels that most automakers seem to love to love these days.
Fortunately for the overwhelming majority of tire sizes and types, there's a large choice with plenty of competition keeping prices reasonable — depending on your definition of reasonable, of course.
With all the choices, it's difficult for even the most dedicated enthusiast to know everything needed to get the right product at the right price.
It all boils down to finding a reliable and knowledgeable tire retailer, and knowing what to ask for.
YOUR DRIVING STYLE
There's a match out there for just about any type of driver, from speed limit-obeying motorists to corner-squealing Mario Andretti wannabes. Knowing exactly what type you are is key for a tire pro to provide you with the proper choices.
YOUR VEHICLE'S PURPOSE
This may seem like a no-brainer, but there are a lot of trucks in driveways that never get used for cargo hauling and towing, and which see nothing rougher to roll on than a multi-lane highway. And there are a lot of minivans that carry a lot of gear farther than a busy 18-wheeler. Knowing what you haul — and just as importantly, what you don't — goes a long way to getting the right rubber.
WHERE AND WHEN YOU GO
Loading up your SUV or pickup truck with super-aggressive off-road treads for a once-a-year foray down a cottage back road will provide some necessary performance that one time, but you'll also be saddled with added noise and discomfort for the rest of the year. Like your vehicle, your tires should fit the majority of your driving terrain.
NOISE AND RIDE COMFORT
Aggressive treads can turn you off your vehicle quicker than a transmission failure. It would be great if tire makers provided digital recordings to let you sample the song before purchasing, but in the absence of this, an experienced tire consultant can provide almost the same benefit. Tire manufacturers were supposed to have noise-comparison rating labels by now, but we're still waiting. Some retailers have this info from their suppliers, while some consumer advice publications will supply these ratings. Read online reviews if possible.
WHAT TYPE OF TIRE
Many truck and SUV owners opt for a heavier tire when the originals wear out. This can mean moving up to an LT-rated tire because the stiffer side walls can handle more weight, but they can also result in a rougher ride. Remember, just because a tire can support more weight doesn't mean the axles can. LT tires also usually bring harder rubber compounds for longer life, but they don't always deliver the same smooth-surface traction.