Essential Facts You Should Know About Tires But Probably Don’t

Tires may seem like a simple invention that doesn’t require much thought or attention, but it is essential to remember that tires are also what make it possible for us to experience the vastness of the enchanting world around us and break free from our stagnant environments.

The general understanding of tires pretty much falls under round, rubber, and fill them up when flat, but goodness this does not even skim the surface of what we should know about tires. So, here are eight things you should know about tires, but probably don’t.

The Basics

Yes, you did not read that wrong, one of the “essential facts” is that you should know the basics of tires. This includes deciphering the tire code, what a tire code even is, and how long your tires should last. In fairness, this is not a college course, and there will be no pop quiz, so let’s try to keep this as simple as possible.

The tire code is that seemingly random series of numbers and letters on your tire that you may have never noticed or given much thought to. Considering tires do actually contain multiple variables such as aspect ratio, speed rating, load index, rim diameter, treadwear, and even weather suitability, it is necessary for all tires to have these printed on the tire.

Honestly, deciphering the tire code can be an annoying process for beginners, so it is best to grab your handy-dandy owner’s manual and flip to the page that tells you what tire the manufacturer recommends. Yeah, it may feel like cheating, but this isn’t school, and it’s better to work smarter, not harder.

As for how long your everyday tire should last, that number is relatively vast at anywhere from 40,000 miles to 100,000 miles, which is about three or four years for an average driver. If maximizing your tires life is important to you though, which it should be, be sure to always have them properly inflated and rotated.

Tires Are the Best Upgrade

Whenever anyone wants to upgrade their vehicle, the first thing they do is go for the engine, transmission, or suspension, but if you want to get to the core of your vehicle’s performance you need to take a look at the tires.

To start, tires are an underrated safety feature. The right tires will allow your vehicle to accelerate more smoothly, master those tricky corners, and even brake more easily. Steering, braking, and tires together culminate to equal the performance of your handling and safety, so make sure you take notice of these parts.

The right tire can also upgrade your fuel efficiency. Tires known for low rolling resistance, in particular, will save your wallet a beating.

You Should Never Be Cheap With Tires

Although it is clearly tempting to save a few bucks on something you barely take notice of, it is essential that you choose quality over cost for your tires. Tires are not just some luxury item; tires are a necessary instrument that your car could never run properly without.

This means that buying used tires is a big no go; even if they are easier on the wallet, you will never be able to judge their overall wear or condition adequately. When they flat a few months later, and you ram into the closest car, rail guard, light post, or goodness forbid grandma; you will not be thinking about how glad you were to save that extra $5 or $10 per tire going used.

Some ways to avoid paying too much though is to find some discount tires in Cincinnati that are the same brand the manufacturer recommends. Your local dealership, like McCluskey Chevy, will have a great selection of high-quality discount tires to choose from.

You Should Always Factor in Road Conditions

You may want to sit down for this shocking news alert; different areas have different weather and terrain conditions. Okay, so that shouldn’t be shocking and neither should that fact that you need to take your personal living condition into account when investing in the right tires. For example, just because a tire is excellent for dry pavement does not automatically make it suitable for wet surfaces.

You Can Test Your Tires With a Penny

This is a fun tidbit! If you feel like your tires are getting close to that replacement age or feel like they aren’t running as smooth as they used to, stick a penny in the groove facing down and if you can see Honest Abe’s hair, you may just have worn them down too much. While this isn’t a scientific method, it does help gauge the approximate life left on your tires.  When in doubt, of course, consult a professional!

Snow Tires are Highly Misunderstood

As a rule of thumb, if you invest in snow tires, then you should start putting them on the first day you see your breath. Many people believe snow tires are for the snow, how dare they right? But, the reality is that snow tires, or “winter” tires, are just all around better for colder conditions. If you live in an area that gets cold often enough they are definitely worth the investment. They will keep your everyday tires from burning out faster and should last a good four or so winter seasons.

Your High-Performance Tires Were Not Made For Longevity

High-performance tires are about speed and traction, not for lasting longer. High-performance tires are relatively soft, and clearly work well for F1 and Indy cars, but don’t expect them to do much good for the everyday driver.

Check the Spare

It is amazing, but some people are not even aware if they have a spare tire, let alone take the time to check if it is still in good condition. A spare tire can be a literal lifesaver when you least expect it, and you don’t want to have your hopes shattered from finding out that your spare is now unusable as you stand stranded on a dark, deserted road.

Also, no matter how much of a pain it may seem, please take an hour of your life to learn how to change your own tire. This information may not only save you but someone else one day.

McCluskey Chevy is proud to provide all local residents and beyond with discount tires in Cincinnati they can rely on. If you are in Cincinnati and in need of discount tires, then feel free to stop by and get the most valuable item on your car for the best deal possible!