Tire technology offers more variety, safety

The tire business is vastly different from when Andy Andonian opened the first Discount Tire Centers store 40 years ago. ered 75 company esents a nge for store ownwho need have sizes stock for ariety of vehicles.

“It is so important to have the right tires,” Sergio said. “The most important part of the vehicle is the tires. The tires are the only thing between you and the road.”

The materials to build tires are the same – rubber, oil and steel, “and that hasn’t changed much,” Sergio said.

What has changed is the amount of detail involved in vehicle size, tread patterns and groove depths, he said.

There are formulas to match cars and trucks with tires that are the right width and ratio to wheel size. After determining the right size, there are other factors to consider: tread, temperature, traction, speed and how heavy the typical load is carried in the vehicle. Steel belts, tread grooves and types of plies all vary.

The good news is that tires have better handling and traction than they did 40 years ago, and that has increased safety and wear.

“The focus is on safety in all seasons and weather conditions,” Sergio said. “That has become more and more important.”

The various types of tires have different price ranges. Discount Tire Centers stock every type of tire from budget to high performance, he said. The company also offers a Chinese brand.

“There has been a huge influx of Chinese tires,” Sergio said. “Consumers who need to save money can safely buy a lower-cost tire.

“Tires are made all over. A lot of tires are still made in the U.S. and a lot come from Mexico, South America, Italy, Taiwan, Singapore and Vietnam.”