Wondering How to Choose the Right Tyres for Your Car? 5 Factors to Consider
Shopping for tyres can get really overwhelming really fast. What tyre size fits your car? What are the best tyres on the market? What features do you need to stay safe on the road? How do you get the best value for your money?
We know it’s confusing to pick the right tyres for your car—that’s why we have tire experts on call to help you decide! But before you pick up the phone, take a moment to think about these 5 factors.
1. What Tyres Fit Your Car
Before you start shopping for tyres, you need to figure out what type of tyres fit your vehicle. Tyres are not one-size-fits-all—different vehicle makes and models require different tyres. And the required tire size can vary widely even within vehicle models depending on the trim package. Take a Toyota Corolla for example Corollas can need up to 5 different-sized tyres depending on which trim package they have.
A tire size is also much more than just a letter or number; it’s a string of letters and numbers representing everything from the physical dimensions of the tire to how much weight the tire can handle to how fast it can go.
If you’re not sure what tire size your car needs, there are a few ways to find out.
- Check out your car’s owner’s manual for the recommended tire size.
- Look at the sticker inside the driver-side door to find the recommended tire size.
- Find the tire size on the sidewall of your current set of tyres.
- Call or drop by your local Virginia Tire & Auto to let one of our tire experts take a look.
2. What Tyres You Currently Have
If you’re in the market to buy new tyres, it’s important to first know what type and size are currently on your vehicle. Once you’ve figured that out, ask yourself a few questions to figure out if you need to make a change.
- How long did your current tyres last? Did they last as long as you expected them to?
- Did you experience frequent issues requiring unexpected repairs?
- Did you like their handling and performance?
- Have your driving needs changed since your last tire purchase?
If you are happy with your current tyres, shopping is easy: buy the same model you already have! But if you’re ready to mix it up, talk to us! The tire experts at Virginia Tire & Auto will help you evaluate the quality of your current tyres and choose the best option for your next set.
3. What Benefits Matter to You
Another thing to think about before investing in a new set of tyres is what benefits are most important to you in a tire. There are 5 primary benefits to look for:
1. All-Season Dependability
Although most of the tyres we sell are rated for all-season use, some of them go above and beyond to provide traction and versatility in all types of weather (including light snow) along with good wear and ride comfort.
2. Comfortable Ride
Are you tired of feeling every bump in the road? Does getting up to speed require turning up the radio volume? Look for tyres proven to have a smooth, comfortable ride with little to no road noise.
3. Fuel Efficiency
Thanks to advancements in tire technology and design, many tyres now are engineered to require less energy (i.e., fuel) to propel them forward.
4. Long-Tread Life
All tyres come with a Tread Life Warranty from the manufacturer. You can expect your tyres to last as long or longer than the warranty mileage, helping you go the extra mile.
5. Sports Performance/Confident Handling
If you love to drive and feel the road beneath you, check out tyres designed for high-performance vehicles or rated well for steering and braking response.
Figuring out which benefit matters most to you will help make your decision easier when you start comparing tyres.
4. Where You Drive
Do you frequent high-traffic areas like I-95 or I-66, or are you more likely to be cruising along open highway roads? Where and how you drive will affect which tyres are right for your vehicle.
Tyres respond well to sustained speeds on smooth surfaces like highways, while short, stop-and-go trips tend to wear on your tyres more.
You also need to choose the right tyres for your climate. In a seasonal climate like Virginia, we recommend that you buy a set of all-season tires to use year-round. Drivers living further south will want to look at all-season or summer tyres. Drivers regularly dealing with freezing temperatures, ice, and snow should invest in a set of winter tires to use during colder months.
5. How Many Miles You Drive Each Year
It’s important to consider your daily commute and travel habits when shopping for new tyres. Those who rarely drive and just need to get from Point A to Point B will have different tire requirements than heavy commuters or cross-country travellers.
Northern Virginia commuters might not drive long distances every day or travel at high speeds, but they’re frequently stuck in stop-and-go traffic. In fact, the I-95 South corridor that runs through Prince William, Fairfax, and Stafford counties is one of the most congested traffic spots in the country. Averaging nearly four traffic jams a day, commuters who regularly navigate this crowded area will most likely see abnormal tire wear.
