How do I know what tyres are best for my vehicle?

Posted On 27 Jan 2025

Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle depends on several factors, including your car's specifications, driving habits, and environmental conditions. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Specifications

  • Owner’s Manual or Door sill: Look for the recommended tyre size and specifications in your car’s owner manual or the sticker on the driver’s side door frame.
    • Example: 205/55R16 91V
      • 205: Tyre width in millimeters.
      • 55: Aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of the width).
      • R: Radial construction.
      • 16: Rim diameter in inches.
      • 91V: Load index (weight capacity) and speed rating (maximum speed).

2. Identify Your Driving Needs

  • Daily Commuting: You could look for all-season tyres, which offer a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance.
  • Performance Driving: You might like to opt for performance or summer tyres for better grip and handling.
  • Off-Roading: If you frequently drive off-road, consider all-terrain or mud-terrain tyres.
  • Winter Conditions: Travelling aboad? Then use winter tyres for snow, ice, or very cold weather (below 7°C/45°F), this is mandatory in some EU countries during Oct and March each year.

3. Determine the Right Type of Tyre

  • All-Season Tyres: Suitable for most weather conditions (mild winters, rain, and dry roads).
  • Summer Tyres: Offer superior grip and handling on dry and wet roads but don't perform as well as All Season tyres in cold conditions.
  • Winter Tyres: Specifically designed for icy, snowy, or cold conditions.
  • All-Terrain Tyres: Best for mixed on-road and off-road use.
  • Run-Flat Tyres: Allow limited driving even after experiencing a puncture.  However, not all vehicles can have Run Flat tyres fitted.

4. Consider the Tyres Performance Ratings

  • Wet Grip Rating: Indicates grip on wet surfaces (grades: A to E).
  • Fuel Efficiency Rating: Depends on the tyres rolling resistance (grades: A to E).
  • Noise Level Rating: This is the external rolling noise generated by the tyre, measured in decibels.

5. Match Tyres to Your Budget

  • Economy Tyres: Affordable options for basic driving needs.
  • Mid-Range Tyres: Good balance of price, durability, and performance.
  • Premium Tyres: High-end tyres offering the best performance and durability.

6. Buy From a Reputable Brand

Some brands include:

  • Premium brands: Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Continental, Pirelli
  • Mid-range brands: Hankook, Falken, Kumho, Yokohama, Avon.
  • Budget-friendly brands: SuperValue

7. Ask a Professional

  • Visit one of our centres to get advice from our team of experts who will recommend the best tyre based on your vehicle, driving habits, and budget.
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