How To Get The Right Tire For Your Vehicle
Replacing the tires on your vehicle with new tires is merely a matter of taking the car to the dealer and having it done, right? While you can do that, it is not always the best option. Tires are a major part of the ride and handling of your vehicle. Getting the right tires can make all the difference in the way your car feels on the road. Going to a tire shop where they can help you get the right tires is the best option.
Size
Tire size is one of the most important parts of selecting new tires for your vehicle. While there may be several sizes that fit your car, it is essential to get as close to stock as possible. The tires need to fit the stock wheels properly and fit inside the wheel wells without hitting the sheet metal, suspension, or frame anywhere. If you want to change the size tire you are using, talk with a technician who can help you determine if the tires you want to use will fit or not.
Wheel Size
The wheels or rims on your car are designed with a specific backspace or offset, so they do not impact any part of the vehicle. Changing wheels is fine but make sure that the new wheel fits before mounting tires on it. Removing the old wheel and putting just the new wheel in place allows you to see if there are any clearance problems with the wheel. It is better to find out before putting tires on if there is an issue with the wheels.
Speed rating
Cars that are intended to be performance cars leave the factory with a performance tire. One rating that you need to pay attention to is the speed rating on the tire. A Z-rated tire, for instance, is designed to withstand speeds of 150 miles per hour or more. While you can not drive that fast on the streets legally, if you take the car to the track on the weekend, it is essential to have a tire that will hold up. Stay with the recommended speed rating or the next one up, but never go to a lower rating because the suspension of the car is designed to work with this type of tire.
Tread Design
Tires with directional designs are made to optimize the traction of the tire. You do not have to stay with that tread style, but if that is the what the original type was, it is a good idea to keep that style on the car. Directional tires can make the car stick to the road and track much better than non-directional tires. Remember, tires are engineered to be part of the suspension and handling of the car with modern suspension systems.
Contact a shop, like East Bay Tire Co., for more help.
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