What You Need to Know When Buying New Tires
You may think that all tires are the same but, surprisingly, buying tires can be a complicated process. There are many things to take into consideration when buying new tires for your vehicle so we’ve broken down the process here:
Know Your Size
Tires come in all sizes and every vehicle fits a different size of tire. Tire sizes looked like this:
P215/65R15 95 H
The “P” is the tire type. A “P” means the tire is made for a passenger vehicle.
The “215” is the width of the tire.
The “65” is the tire’s ratio of the height to the width.
The “R” represents radial, which is the type of construction that the tire has.
The “15” is the wheel diameter so look to this number to know what size of wheels you need for your tires.
The “95” is the load index of the tire, meaning this is the maximum load it can carry.
The “H” represents the maximum speed capacity of the tire.
If you look at the sidewall of a vehicle’s tire and compare it to the tires on another vehicle, you’ll see that they most likely have a different combination of numbers and letters so it’s important to consult your Integra Tire specialists to make sure that you’re buying the right tire size.
Know What Type of Tire You Need
There are four main tire categories: all-season tires, all-weather tires, winter tires, and performance/summer tires. Consider the climate you live in and the type of driving you will be doing; this will help you determine which type is the best for you.
All-Season Tires
All-season tires are made to perform in wet and dry conditions above 7°C. These tires are designed to be used in the fall, spring, and summer seasons.
All-Weather Tires
All-weather tires are designed for mild temperatures. They will provide grip in temperatures below 7°C and will stay sturdy in temperatures above 7°C; therefore, they can be used in all seasons, including in areas with winters that have little snow and higher temperatures.
Winter Tires
Winter tires will grip on snow and ice and provide excellent traction in temperatures below 7°C and when the roads are icy and snowy.
Performance/Summer Tires
Performance tires are designed for driving fast speeds and provide good handling around corners. These tires perform best in dry conditions and are most commonly used on race tracks.
Know Your Price Point
Tires come in a variety of price points so let your Integra Tire dealer know if you are looking for a premium tire, an economy tire, or a mid-range tire.
These are just the basics of buying tires so feel free to come into any Integra Tire and Auto Centre across Canada and we’ll be happy to answer any of your questions and find the right tires for your vehicle. Start shopping online now here!