Automotive Tires

Automotive tires are round rubber covers that are placed on the wheels of vehicles. Tires are made from a combination of rubber, steel, and other materials. They provide traction to help the vehicle move on the road as well as a cushion to make the ride more comfortable.

Tires have specific tread patterns and grooves that help to channel water away from the tire’s contact patch, which improves traction on wet or slippery roads. The sidewall of a tire includes information such as the tire’s size, load capacity and speed rating, and the maximum inflation pressure, which is the highest air pressure that the tire can safely hold.

Choosing the right tires is crucial for safety and performance because tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road. Tires that are worn out, underinflated, or incompatible with your vehicle can greatly affect your car’s handling, braking, and acceleration, which can lead to accidents and unsafe driving conditions.

For example, using summer tires in winter conditions can make it difficult to drive on snow or ice, while using all-season tires in high-performance driving conditions may not provide enough grip or stability. In addition, using tires that are too small or too large for your vehicle can affect your car’s handling, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.

Choosing the right tires based on your driving needs and conditions can improve your car’s safety and performance, and also help you save money on fuel and maintenance costs in the long run.

As a car owner, it’s important to have a basic understanding of your car’s tires in order to ensure that they are in good condition and to prevent accidents.

Here are a few key things to know about automotive tires:

Inflation pressure: Recommendations are on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual. Over or under-inflated tires can lead to poor fuel economy, uneven tire wear, and increased risk of a blowout.

Depth: The minimum for safe driving is 2/32 inches. Replace tires when they reach 4/32-inch of tread depth.

Rotation: Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear.

Alignment: Tires should be balanced and aligned when they are replaced or rotated. This can help to prevent uneven wear and improve handling.

Damage: Check for any signs of such as cuts, bulges, or uneven wear. Any damage can weaken the tire and make it more susceptible to a blowout.

Size and Type: Make sure your tires are the right size and type for your vehicle, and that they have the proper load capacity for the weight of your vehicle. Tires come in different types, such as all-season, winter, summer, and performance, each of them designed for specific use and conditions.

Expiry date: Tires age, even if they haven’t been used, and after six years of being manufactured, they should be replaced, regardless of the tread depth.