Commonly asked questions when buying new tyres
Buying new tyres can seem a little intimidating, especially if it is the first time you have had to replace them since buying your car.
We encounter a number of frequently asked questions, the most important of which we cover below:
What tyres are compatible with my vehicle?
This information is provided both in the owner's manual and via the markings on your existing tyres.
Working out what tyres you have currently
On the sidewall of your tyres, you will find a code made up of numbers and letters. This gives some basic information about the tyre. For this example, we will use the code 193/60 R15 94W.
The first number gives the width of the tyre in millimetres (in this case 193mm).
The second number is the height of the tyre sidewall expressed as a percentage of its width (in this case 60%).
The first letter displayed gives the type of tyre (in this case R for Radial construction which is by far the most common type).
The next number is the diameter of the wheel’s rim expressed in inches (in this case 15).
The following number is the load rating of the tyre (in this case 94 represents a load capacity in kilograms of 670).
The final letter indicates the maximum speed that a tyre can handle (in this case W represents a speed of 168mph).
Should I replace like for like?
For many drivers, simply replacing the tyres with a set from the same manufacturer and with the same specifications is an uncomplicated way of dealing with things. However, do bear in mind that some tyres will have been replaced by more modern versions and some may no longer be manufactured.
Should I replace all tyres in one go?
This depends on your vehicle. If your car is front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive only, it will be okay to replace two at a time (for example, both front tyres together). However, if your car is an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle, then it is usually necessary to replace all four tyres at the same time.
Should all four tyres be the same?
It is essential that you use the same tyres on each axle; i.e. front tyres must be identical to each other, as must the rears. Some vehicles will have different specifications for the front and rear axles and you must adhere to the manufacturer's specifications. This is vital in maintaining performance and control.
What is the deal with different prices and brands?
Broadly speaking, there are three varieties of tyre:
Premium - the most expensive tyres that last a long time, utilise modern technology and give great performance. Premium brands include Goodyear, Pirelli, and Bridgestone.
Mid-range - as the name suggests, these are mid-priced options that tend to last considerably longer than budget tyres but are not as durable or high-tech as premium options. Manufacturers include Falken and Sumitomo.
Budget - easier on the wallet, these tyres will tend to be less durable and less high-tech than premium tyres. Brands that offer budget tyres include Runway and Auto Grip.
To arrange an appointment or to speak to one of our tyre professionals, why not use our search facility to find your nearest garage and arrange an appointment? Our garages also offer MOTs, servicing and a number of free vehicle checks.
We Can Help You Choose The Right Tyre
Tyres are essential for keeping your car safe and performing at its best, but with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. That's where our informative articles come in – we're here to help you navigate the world of tyres and make the best choice for your specific needs.
Whether you're considering upgrading to Premium car tyres for enhanced driving dynamics, run flat car tyres for added peace of mind, or trying to decide between summer car tyres and winter car tyres, Protyre can help. Our articles have got you covered with a wide range of tyre-related topics to help you make informed decisions.
The brand you choose matters too. We offer recommendations for trusted names such as BF Goodrich tyres, Bridgestone tyres, Continental tyres, Dunlop tyres, Falken tyres, General tyres, Goodyear tyres, GT Radial tyres , Hankook tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Runway tyres, Sumitomo tyres, and Toyo tyres. But our articles don't just focus on choosing the right tyres – we also offer practical advice for maintaining them. From simple tips like checking your tread depth and keeping your tyres inflated to the proper pressure, to more advanced topics like extending tyre life through regular rotation and balancing - we've got you covered!
Dive in and discover everything you need to know to keep your car running smoothly and safely with Protyre.
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