How to choose the right Tires for your Car

Shopping for tires may quickly become daunting. What tire size is appropriate for your vehicle? What are the best tires available? What characteristics are required to keep you safe on the road? How can you get the most bang for your buck?

We understand how difficult it is to choose the correct tires for your vehicle, which is why we have tire specialists on hand to assist you! But before you pick up the phone, consider the following five criteria:

1. What tires fit your vehicle?
Before you go tire shopping, you need to determine what sort of tires will fit your car. Tires are not universal—various vehicle types and models necessitate different tires. And, depending on the trim package, the needed tire size might vary greatly even among car models. Consider the Toyota Corolla: Depending on the trim level, Corollas may require up to five different tire sizes.

A tire size is more than simply a letter or number; it’s a string of letters and numbers that signify everything from the physical measurements of the tire to how much weight the tire can hold to how fast it can move.
There are a few ways to figure out what tire size your vehicle requires.

The appropriate tire size may be found in your car’s owner’s handbook.
The recommended tire size may be found on a label inside the driver’s side door.

The tire size may be found on the sidewall of your existing pair of tires.
Call or visit your local Virginia Tire & Auto to have one of our tire specialists inspect your tires.

2. What Tires Do You Have Right Now?
If you’re in the market for new tires, you need to first determine what type and size are currently on your car. Once you’ve determined that, ask yourself a few questions to determine whether you need to make a change.

How long have your existing tires lasted? Did they last as long as you anticipated?
Have you had recurring problems that necessitated unexpected repairs?
Did you enjoy how they handled and performed?
Have your driving requirements altered since you last purchased tires?
If you’re content with your present tires, purchasing is simple: get the same model! But if you’re ready to shake things up, get in touch!

3. What Benefits Are Important to You?
Another item to consider before purchasing a new set of tires is what features are most essential to you in a tire. There are five major advantages to look for:

1. Seasonal Dependability
Although the majority of the tires we sell are certified for all-season usage, some of them go above and beyond to give grip and adaptability in all weather conditions (even light snow), as well as good wear and ride comfort.
A relaxing ride

2. Are you sick of feeling every pothole on the road? Is it necessary to crank up the radio volume to catch up? Look for tires that have an established track record of providing a smooth, pleasant ride with minimal to no road noise.

3. Fuel Economy

Many tires are now constructed to use less energy (i.e., petrol) to move forward, thanks to developments in tire technology and design.

4. Extended Tread Life

The manufacturer provides a tread-life warranty on all tires. Your tires should last as long as or longer than the guaranteed miles, allowing you to go the additional mile.

5. Sporting Ability/Confident Handling
If you enjoy driving and feeling the road beneath you, look for tires built for high-performance cars or those with good steering and brake response ratings.

When comparing tires, determining which advantage is most important to you can help you make a more informed selection.

4. Where Do You Drive?
Do you drive on busy highways like I-95 or I-66, or do you prefer to cruise along open highways? Which tires are best for your car depends on where and how you travel.

Tires respond well to prolonged speeds on smooth surfaces such as highways, but short, stop-and-go journeys wear down your tires more quickly.

You must also select the appropriate tires for your climate. In a seasonal environment like Virginia, we recommend investing in a set of all-season tires to be used all year. Drivers in the south should choose all-season or summer tires. Drivers who frequently encounter freezing conditions, ice, and snow should invest in a pair of winter tires to use during the colder months.

5. How many miles do you drive every year?
When searching for new tires, keep your regular commute and travel patterns in mind. Those who drive seldom and only need to get from A to B will have different tire needs than heavy commuters or cross-country trips.