Guide to Buying Tires for Your Vehicle

“Your car needs all new tires,” the words any driver dreads hearing at the mechanic’s. Yes, new tires can be quite the financial investment, but they also come with the mental mind game you could end up playing with a tire dealer.

Unless you know what you’re getting into, buying new tires is never as simple as pointing to the best-looking set of the bunch and can often result in you going with a vendor’s “best option.”

Regardless of the costs involved, tires directly impact your car’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Therefore, picking the right set can make a significant difference. 

If you know you’ve got a new set of tires in the future, Kwik Kar’s tire buying guide has you covered. From understanding treadwear ratings to choosing between all-season and winter tires, here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed choice.

Understanding Treadwear Ratings

One of the first aspects you’ll notice when tire shopping is the treadwear rating. This number is part of the Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) system, providing a standard measurement for comparing tire longevity. However, while the rating gives some idea of durability, it’s not a precise prediction. 

A tire with a treadwear rating of 400 won’t necessarily last twice as long as one rated 200, as real-world conditions vary widely. Each tire manufacturer may even understate their treadwear rating to avoid customer dissatisfaction. For instance, a tire might be capable of lasting longer than the rating suggests, but the company prefers to keep customer expectations conservative. Use the rating as a guideline rather than a guarantee of lifespan.

The Purpose and Limitations of All-Season Tires

All-season tires are a popular choice for their versatility. These tires aim to provide adequate performance year-round, which is convenient if you prefer to stick with one set of tires. However, while all-season tires are serviceable in different weather, they don’t excel in extremes. 

Dedicated winter tires offer superior traction in cold conditions, while summer tires provide better grip and handling in hot weather. If you frequently face icy or snowy conditions, having a separate set of winter tires will offer better performance and safety, while keeping a set of summer or all-season tires for milder weather.

Should You Consider Winter Tires?

Winter tires are designed to handle snow, ice, and low temperatures, boasting unique tread patterns and rubber compounds that stay flexible in the cold. This allows them to maintain grip where all-season tires would harden and lose traction. 

Though winter tires represent an additional investment, they’re worth it for those in colder climates where roads can be challenging in winter months. When not in use, these tires should be stored in a cool, dry place to extend their lifespan, allowing you to rotate them back on once winter returns.

Tire Sizing and Aspect Ratio

Understanding tire dimensions is crucial if you’re looking at changing your tire size. Tire size is typically written as a series of numbers, such as 205/60R16. 

In this example, 205 represents the tire’s width in millimeters, 60 is the aspect ratio (or height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width), and 16 is the wheel’s diameter in inches. The aspect ratio plays a role in how a car feels and handles. 

A lower aspect ratio (like 50 instead of 60) results in a shorter sidewall, giving a sportier look and feel but possibly compromising comfort on rough roads. 

Exploring Run-Flat Tires

Run-flat tires have become a common option, especially on newer vehicles. These tires allow you to continue driving around Austin even after a puncture, reducing the risk of being stranded with a flat. However, they often have a stiffer ride due to reinforced sidewalls and can be pricier than standard tires, costing up to $500 per tire.

If you value peace of mind and prefer a hassle-free approach to flat tires, run-flats can be a good choice, but weigh the cost and comfort factors.

Balancing Price and Performance

Tires vary widely in price, and while it might be tempting to opt for a budget option, cheaper tires often lack the same level of safety, performance, or longevity. High-quality tires from reputable brands tend to offer better traction, fuel efficiency, and a quieter ride. Investing in quality tires can improve handling, fuel economy, and even the tires’ lifespan. 

When you’re pricing out tires, consider how you drive, the typical weather conditions in your area, and your budget. In our experience, sometimes, a mid-range tire is the best fit, balancing performance and affordability.

Planning Ahead: When Should You Start Looking for New Tires?

Knowing when to start shopping for new tires can save you from making a rushed decision. Typically, a set of tires will last around three to six years, depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance routines. It’s best to begin your search when your current tires are showing signs of wear but still have some life left. This gives you time to compare options and find the right deal without feeling pressured by a sudden need. Checking your tires every few months for tread wear, cracks, or other damage can help you gauge when it’s time to replace tires.

Signs That It’s Time for New Tires

Understanding the signs that indicate your tires are nearing the end of their lifespan is crucial. Look for these key warning signs:

Tread Depth

Tires with a tread depth below 2/32 of an inch are considered worn out and unsafe. You can check this with a tread depth gauge or even use the “penny test”—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low.

Cracks and Bulges

Cracks in the sidewall or bulges are signs of structural damage. These issues can lead to blowouts and should not be ignored.

Vibrations or Pulling

If you feel excessive vibrations or your car pulls to one side, your tires may be unevenly worn or damaged. Although alignment or suspension issues can also cause these symptoms, they often indicate that your tires need attention.

Questions to Ask When Replacing New Tires

Before making a purchase, there are several important questions you should ask a tire shop near you to ensure you’re getting the best deal and service!

What’s Included in the Warranty?

 Inquire about mileage warranties, road hazard protection, and any other coverage provided by the tire brand or shop. Understanding what’s covered will help you avoid unexpected expenses down the line.

What are the Installation and Additional Service Costs?

Tire installation can involve additional fees for balancing, valve stem replacement, and alignment checks. Clarify the costs upfront to avoid surprises.

Are There Maintenance Packages or Perks?

Ask if the shop offers any maintenance perks, like free tire rotations, repairs, or discounts on future services. These extras can add value and convenience over the life of your tires.

Need Help Determining Your Tire Needs? Kwik Kar is at Your Service

Purchasing new tires can feel like a complex decision, but understanding what each of the types of tires offers will make the choice easier. Prioritize features that match your driving habits and conditions, whether that means selecting a high treadwear rating for durability, opting for winter tires for seasonal use, or finding the ideal aspect ratio for comfort and handling. Making an informed choice now can enhance your vehicle’s performance, safety, and comfort on the road.

While our Dallas location is the spot to buy new tires, we can order from there no matter where you are in Texas. All you have to do is stop in at a Kwik Kar near you for help!

Reach out to us and make an appointment today!