Things To Know Before Buying New Tires
Keeping quality tires on your car is important, especially for safety reasons. Typically tires are to be replaced when the tread depth is very minimal. However, vehicle manufacturers recommend you replace tires after six years, no matter what their condition.
If you are certain that your vehicle’s tires are worn out and need replacement, the following are four things to know before buying new tires:
- Correct tire size is crucial. A tire's size is listed on its sidewalls in a sequence such as P265/70R16. Replacement tires should always match what's noted in your owner's manual or car door jamb, not necessarily what's currently on your vehicle or what a tire dealer may recommend.
- Learn tire ‘language’. "All-season" tires are a popular and wise choice for most drivers. But think those called "high-performance" tires are better? Think again. Tire performance means an ability to handle well at higher speeds, not lifespan. Any tire with "high-performance" in its name will likely wear out quicker.
- Think twice about the warranty. Manufacturers often promote mileage warranties—typically between 50,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on tire type. However, remember the heavier the vehicle, the less mileage you should expect—no matter how well you drive. Be sure to know the fine-print details of mileage warranties. Typically, if tires wear out prematurely, there's a prorated credit for replacements. Most likely, you will be expected to prove you properly cared for the tires by keeping them inflated to the right pressure, aligned and rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. There may be a physical tire inspection and request for service records before warranties are honored.
- Don't rely on Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). If your vehicle was manufactured in 2008 or later, chances are it has a TPMS, which warns when tires are underinflated. Insufficient air pressure not only is a safety hazard but speeds up tire wear. However, it’s recommended that you do a manual tire pressure check and physical tire inspection on a monthly basis as well. This is especially critical during the cold winter months.
Remember: Tire maintenance is one of the most critical and important aspects of vehicle ownership in order to maintain a safe vehicle.
Have questions about things to know before buying new tires? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair to schedule an appointment for a tire inspection. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Keeping quality tires on your car is important, especially for safety reasons. Typically tires are to be replaced when the tread depth is very minimal. However, vehicle manufacturers recommend you replace tires after six years, no matter what their condition.
If you are certain that your vehicle’s tires are worn out and need replacement, the following are four things to know before buying new tires:
- Correct tire size is crucial. A tire's size is listed on its sidewalls in a sequence such as P265/70R16. Replacement tires should always match what's noted in your owner's manual or car door jamb, not necessarily what's currently on your vehicle or what a tire dealer may recommend.
- Learn tire ‘language’. "All-season" tires are a popular and wise choice for most drivers. But think those called "high-performance" tires are better? Think again. Tire performance means an ability to handle well at higher speeds, not lifespan. Any tire with "high-performance" in its name will likely wear out quicker.
- Think twice about the warranty. Manufacturers often promote mileage warranties—typically between 50,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on tire type. However, remember the heavier the vehicle, the less mileage you should expect—no matter how well you drive. Be sure to know the fine-print details of mileage warranties. Typically, if tires wear out prematurely, there's a prorated credit for replacements. Most likely, you will be expected to prove you properly cared for the tires by keeping them inflated to the right pressure, aligned and rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. There may be a physical tire inspection and request for service records before warranties are honored.
- Don't rely on Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). If your vehicle was manufactured in 2008 or later, chances are it has a TPMS, which warns when tires are underinflated. Insufficient air pressure not only is a safety hazard but speeds up tire wear. However, it’s recommended that you do a manual tire pressure check and physical tire inspection on a monthly basis as well. This is especially critical during the cold winter months.
Remember: Tire maintenance is one of the most critical and important aspects of vehicle ownership in order to maintain a safe vehicle.
Have questions about things to know before buying new tires? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair to schedule an appointment for a tire inspection. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
