Which Car Tyres Should You Get?

By Adam White

When you buy a brand new car, it will have been fitted with tyres chosen by the manufacturer. But do you really need to replace them with exactly the same make and model of tyres?

car driving down road

Or can you choose cheaper options? Does it make any difference at all to the vehicle’s overall performance if you choose a different type or brand of car tyre?

When a car manufacturer introduces a new car to the market, the designers spend a great deal of time and effort in determining the most suitable tyres for each model. Their decision is influenced by a number of factors, including which tyres add extra appeal to the car’s design, as well as ensuring that the chosen tyres complement and support the vehicle’s performance and suspension geometry. So, if the car is a high-spec, high-speed model, it will have very different tyres from an SUV, for example.
 
But there’s absolutely no obligation to replace tyres with exactly the same brand or model. And in some cases, it may be more convenient to replace the fitted tyres with alternative models anyway, for example, when you purchase a car with summer tyres, but need to replace them with winter tyres.

The one thing you should always do when replacing tyres, is to ensure that you select new tyres with the same speed rating as your current ones. This information will be clearly displayed in your vehicle’s handbook, but it’s also prominently displayed on the tyres themselves. Look on the sidewall of your current tyres and you’ll see that they have a series of letters and numbers, which give you important information about the tyre’s size and tread pattern, as well as a guide to load and speed limits.
 
In sourcing a replacement, it’s essential that you choose a tyre with the same, or higher load and speed rating, as your current tyres, or you will compromise your vehicle’s safety.

Tyres come in a huge range of sizes and types and there’s absolutely no obligation to keep to the same brand of tyres once it’s time to replace your factory-fitted ones. Options are usually available from premium, mid-range and budget tyre brands so it’s possible to source replacement tyres that work with your budget, as well as your driving style. Whether you favour top-of-the-range Pirelli tyres or opt for a budget brand, all tyres sold in the UK by reputable retailers must adhere to the same stringent regulations and will provide a safe and secure motoring experience.

Did you know?

Protyre offer free tyre checks at all garages within our UK network. Click the button below to book online or contact your local Protyre garage to book your vehicle in.

Free Tyre Check

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.

With so many options available these days, from summer, winter and all-season tyres to run-flat versions that enable you to continue your journey even with a puncture, it can be difficult to determine which tyres are the best ones for your needs. So to help you, we’ve included a tyre search function on our site. This allows you to select tyres based on your current ones, or by entering your vehicle registration number.
 
Still not sure which tyres are the best option for your needs? Then just call in and see us, so that our tyre professionals can advise you in person. Pick a date and time that suits you, and our experienced fitters will be happy to help.

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About the author

Article Author Photo
By Adam White
Adam looks to create engaging and informative content across the website that provides consumers with expert advice on MOTs, servicing, vehicle maintenance and tyre care. As a motorsport enthusiast, Adam enjoys documenting the Protyre Motorsport team’s involvement in major motorsport events across the UK.
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