Whether you want to upgrade your car’s current tires or replace them completely, there are many things to consider before deciding. For starters, check the tire’s age. Most manufacturers recommend avoiding used tires over six years old, as this is when the rubber starts to break down and dry out.
Winter
If you drive on roads covered in snow, slush, or ice throughout the winter, consider putting on some winter tires. These tires have a deeper tread pattern that grabs the road’s surface to help you go and stop more securely. They are also made with specialized rubber that stays soft in cold temperatures for a superior grip. You can identify a good winter tire by the mountain/snowflake icon on its sidewall and an M+S (mud and snow) rating. You can also test for a decent tread depth with the quarter-in-a-thread trick: stick George Washington’s head into several tire grooves. If you can’t see the top of his hair, it’s time to replace your tires and find used tires locally. It’s best to buy used snow or all-season tires early when the selection is plentiful, and the prices are more reasonable. As the season progresses, these tires will be harder to find in the sizes that match your car, and the seller’s perception of their value may rise. It’s also essential to ensure your car is matched with the same set of tires on each axle. Unmatched tires can cause uneven wear that leads to more expensive repair bills.
Summer
Many tire options are available depending on how and where you drive. All-season tires are a good choice for daily drivers, while performance tires offer enhanced traction for drivers who want a sporty car. Selecting the correct tire size based on the car manufacturer’s recommendations is essential. Having the right tires on your vehicle is crucial for safety and performance. The small patch of rubber touching the road determines how responsive your vehicle is to your commands, how your suspension absorbs curves, and how long it takes to stop from a full-speed run. Summer or performance tires have shallow, straighter grooves to allow more rubber to touch the road and dissipate heat. They are optimized for excellent traction and acceleration, especially in wet conditions. They can also have asymmetrical tread patterns that offer more rotation options to even out tire wear and extend their lifespan. However, the soft rubber compound that makes these tires so great in warm weather isn’t designed for cold temperatures, and once the temperature drops below 45 degrees F, they are no longer safe to use. They may crack or decompose and become dangerously unsafe to drive on.
Rain
Many factors go into choosing the right tires for your vehicle, including your driving habits and the climate where you live. A tire with good wet-weather capabilities may be essential if you frequently drive in rainy conditions. In addition to the climate, your vehicle’s type and handling patterns also play a role in wet-weather choices. For example, a sports car handles differently than a truck, affecting your selection. All-season tires are engineered to handle various environmental conditions and typically provide good wet-weather performance. Look for tires with a tread pattern that sends water away from the tire to reduce hydroplaning. If you drive in a northern area where snow is expected, consider winter or snow tires designed to grip icy roads and dig into deep snow. When buying used tires, scrutinize them for signs of deterioration. This includes external damage such as bulges, cuts, chunking, and exposed wires. Internal damage such as under- or over-inflation, wheel alignment issues, and damage within the rubber compound can cause sudden loss of traction. It may be challenging to spot with just a visual inspection. If you notice these signs, you should avoid purchasing the tire. Tread depth is another essential factor; it should be at least 3/32″ and no higher than 4/32″ for safety reasons.
Snow
All-season tires do the trick in a mild winter climate, especially if you have a 4-wheel drive. However, if you want to ensure optimal performance on snow, opt for dedicated winter tires. The tires with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol on their sidewalls have unique rubber that stays soft in cold temperatures. Also, take a close look at the tires’ overall condition. Check for bubbles on the sidewall, punctures, missing chunks, or other irreparable damage. Consider how much you use your vehicle and how urgently you need to get somewhere in a winter storm. If you use your vehicle for extended trips or breakneck speeds, your tires can wear out more quickly than you might think, and if they’re not suited to the weather conditions, they could put you and your passengers in harm’s way. The best way to protect yourself is to choose a set of used tires with plenty of tread life and a history that shows they were well taken care of.
