Shoes for my car: What type of tyres do I need for my car?
For many, buying new tyres is a chore! Shoes For My Car takes the hassle out of choosing tyres. Choosing tyres and knowing what tyres to choose is quite simple! If you drive an SUV, you will need SUV tyres. If you drive a small runaround, you will need tyres to match, and if you drive an Electric Vehicle (EV), there are shoes specially made for that! At Shoes For My Car, we take the pressure off you (pardon the pun!), and we will suggest tyres that will suit your make and model.
Understanding Tyre Markings
The first step in choosing the right tyres for your car is to understand the markings on your current tyres. Tyre markings provide valuable information about the tyre's size, load capacity, and speed rating.
Tyre Size
The size of the tyre is indicated by a combination of letters and numbers on the tyre's sidewall. For example, 225/55R16.
The three-digit number, "225," indicates the tyre's width in millimetres.
2. The two-digit number, "55," is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width.
3. The letter "R" indicates that the tyre is of radial construction,
4. The two-digit number, "16" indicates the diameter of the wheel in inches.
Load Index and Speed Rating
Load index and speed rating are two important factors that determine the tyre's performance. The load index indicates the maximum weight the tyre can carry, while the speed rating indicates the maximum speed that the tyre can handle. Load index and speed rating are indicated by numbers and letters, respectively, on the tyre's sidewall.
Choosing the correct tyre
Choosing the right tyre for you; Tyres can be classified in two ways. Firstly, you need to consider whether you need a touring tyre or a performance tyre. Secondly, choose the tyre to suit the road conditions you will drive on. - Like choosing trainers for a run or high heels for your night out!
Touring Tyres
If you’re a car driver, you’ll need a touring tyre - akin to shoes for your feet! Tyres that make the car feel comfortable and easier to drive. There is a wide range of tyres brands available. Visit our homepage for more information.
Performance Tyres
Most tyre manufacturers e.g, Bridgestone, Kuhmo, and Goodyear offer what is known as a performance tyre. These tyres use a softer rubber compound, offering you more grip on the road, but these tyres will be subject to more wear and tear.
Summer Tyres
Summer tyres are designed to perform optimally in warm weather conditions. They have a tread pattern optimised for dry and wet roads, providing excellent grip and handling. However, they are unsuitable for cold weather conditions, as they tend to harden and lose their grip. Would you wear flip-flops in icy conditions?
Winter Tyres
Winter tyres are specifically for driving in colder and wintry conditions. The tread patterns on these tyres are different, making it easier to navigate snowy conditions. The rubber compound on these tyres is softer, giving them more traction and grip in adverse conditions. This improves all-around handling and breaking in bad weather. These are only for use in temperatures consistently below 7°C.
All-Season Tyres
All-season tyres are designed to provide a balance between summer and winter tyres. They have a tread pattern optimised for dry and wet roads, as well as moderate snow and ice. However, they provide a different level of performance than summer or winter tyres. As we don’t really get defined or overly severe winters or summers, these types of tyres are the answer for Irish roads.
Conclusion
Understanding the tyres you need does not have to be an arduous task, but it is crucial for choosing the right tyres for your vehicle. You want to choose tyres that suit your vehicle and offer you the optimum balance of performance, safety and durability.
FAQs
1. How often should I change my tyres?
This depends on your car, the mileage you do and your driving style. You should check your tryes regularly to ensure your tyres are within legal limits.
2. How do I know if my tyres are bald
Most new tyres have a tread depth of 8.0 mm. The legal limit or minimum permitted tread depth is 1.6 mm. It is recommended that each tyre should have at least 3.0 mm tread depth.
3. How can I check my tread depth?
Use a €1 coin and run it along the centre of the tyre. If the gold part of the coin is not visible, the tread depth is ok. If the gold part of the coin is visible, it is recommended that you get your tryes checked.
4. How do I find my tyre size?
Your tyre size can be found on the outerwall of your tyre. It will be displayed as a series of numbers. 205/55 R16 95 Y -We have created a simple tyre size guide for you!
5. What are the penalties for worn-out tyres?
Driving a vehicle with defective or worn tyres in a public place is an offence. The initial fixed charge amount is €80 (increasing to €120 if you do not pay within 28 days), and you will also get two penalty points.
