10 Things You Didn’t Know About Tires on Your Car, Truck or SUV

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Tires on Your Car, Truck or SUV by mobile mechanic Memphis auto car repair service shop, emergency vehicle roadside assistance, pre purchase used car buying inspection near me such as car battery jump start, flat tire road service, run out of gas, electric car charger includes pre purchase used car buying inspection checkup service review at local dealership or home seller near me call us at 901-881-7850 local automotive technician expert near me who will come or travel to you, at home, house, apartment, condo, job, office business or any local parking lot to fix your vehicle onsite as roadside assistance.

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Tires: Safety, Maintenance, and Selection

Hey, everyone. It’s Sue from 1A Auto, and I want to talk about a subject that not everybody wants to discuss, but it is an important one because it stands between us and the road, ensuring safety for our loved ones—tires. Let’s dive right into the basics of tire size and more.

Understanding Tire Sizes

Tire size is fundamental when it comes to choosing the right tire for your vehicle. A typical tire size might look like 205/60R16. Here’s what each part of this code means:

The 205 indicates the width of the tire across the tread in millimeters. The 60 represents the aspect ratio, which is the ratio of the tire’s height to its width. R stands for radial, which most tires are. Finally, 16 is the diameter of the wheel in inches.

Speed Ratings and Their Importance

Tires also have speed ratings, indicated by letters such as H, V, etc. These ratings tell you the maximum speed the tire can safely handle. For example, a V-rated tire can handle speeds up to 149 miles per hour, while an H-rated tire is suitable for up to 130 miles per hour. While you might not drive at these speeds, these ratings are crucial for understanding the tire’s performance capabilities.

Choosing the Right Tire for Your Vehicle

Knowing the correct tire size for your car is essential, but don’t just rely on the current tires on your vehicle, especially if it’s a used or hand-me-down car. Vehicles today are more complex, and using the wrong tire size can affect fuel efficiency, handling, and safety.

By federal law, every new vehicle has a sticker inside the driver’s door indicating the correct tire size and pressure. This is the most reliable source for determining the right tire for your car. Sometimes, it might list alternative sizes, including the spare tire size, which is often smaller as it’s a temporary tire.

The Importance of Tire Manufacturing Date

One of my favorite things to check on a tire is the manufacturing date. This is crucial, especially when buying a used car. The date is shown as four digits; for example, 4614 means the tire was made in the 46th week of 2014. Even if the tread looks good, the tire’s material can degrade over time, affecting safety.

Tire Pressure: A Key to Performance and Safety

Many people make the mistake of inflating their tires according to the maximum pressure listed on the tire itself. Instead, you should follow the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure found on that door sticker. This ensures optimal performance, handling, gas mileage, and safety.

Using Tire Pressure Gauges

It’s important to have a reliable tire pressure gauge. They come in various shapes, sizes, and prices, but even a basic one is better than none. Keeping a gauge in your glove box allows you to regularly check your tire pressure, which is crucial for maintaining the tire’s performance and longevity.

Understanding Tread Depth and Tire Wear

Tread depth is crucial for safety, especially in wet or snowy conditions. A tread depth gauge can help you measure this accurately. While some people rely on the old penny test (where Lincoln’s head should disappear if the tread is sufficient), the safest approach is to ensure your tires are above the legal minimum tread depth, which varies by region.

It’s also important to check for uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues or a need for new tires. Remember, even if the tread looks fine, the age and condition of the rubber are just as important.

Flat Tires and Proper Repair Techniques

If you have a slow leak or a nail in your tire, it’s crucial to repair it correctly. While plugs are a quick fix, patches are the proper way to ensure a durable repair. Always ensure that repairs are done away from the sidewall, which is the weakest part of the tire.

Tire Rotation and Maintenance

Regular tire rotation is essential to ensure even wear and extend the life of your tires. I recommend rotating your tires with every oil change. This is especially important in regions with harsh weather conditions, which can put additional stress on your tires.

Alignments and Their Importance

Getting an alignment every time you purchase new tires is crucial. It ensures that your tires wear evenly and your vehicle handles correctly. Misalignment can lead to premature tire wear and negatively affect your vehicle’s performance.

Selecting the Best Tires for Your Vehicle

When choosing tires, consider factors such as performance in different weather conditions and user reviews. Don’t just stick with the brand that came with your car; do your research to find the best option for your needs and budget.

Ultimately, investing in quality tires and proper maintenance, like regular rotations and alignments, will enhance your vehicle’s safety and performance. Remember, tires are the only thing between you and the road, so prioritize their care.

If you found this guide helpful, please subscribe to our channel and visit 1aauto.com for quality auto parts shipped to your door. Thanks for reading!

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