When you need new tires, the options can feel endless. Size, tread, brand, price – it’s easy to get lost. This guide cuts through the noise and shows you exactly what to look for, how to keep the rubber happy, and when to replace them.
The first step is to match the tire to your vehicle. Grab the number on the sidewall of your current tyre – something like 205/55R16 – and copy it. That string tells you width, aspect ratio, and wheel diameter. Stick to those numbers unless you have a good reason to change.
Next, think about what you drive. If most of your miles are on highways, look for a low‑noise, high‑speed tyre. If you love winding country roads, a tyre with a stickier tread will give you better grip. And if you live in a place that sees snow, a winter tyre is a must – they stay flexible in cold and push water away to stop slipping.
Budget matters too. All‑season tyres from reputable brands often provide a good balance of performance and price. Cheaper, unknown brands can be tempting, but they may wear faster or handle poorly, which ends up costing more in the long run.
Once the right tyres are on the car, regular care will stretch their life. The single most important habit is checking tyre pressure. Under‑inflated tyres wear on the edges and waste fuel; over‑inflated ones wear in the centre and feel harsh. Check the pressure once a month and before long trips, using the pressure listed in your owner’s manual (not the number on the tyre).
Rotate the tyres every 6,000‑8,000 km or as your car’s service guide suggests. Rotation moves each tyre to a different position, so the wear stays even. It’s a quick job at a garage or even at home with a jack set.
Watch the tread depth. A simple penny test works: insert a penny with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see all of Lincoln, the tread is below 2 mm and it’s time for new tyres. Worn tread means less grip, especially in wet conditions.
Keep the wheels clean. Brake dust, road salt and grime can eat away at the rubber and the metal rim. A quick hose down and a wipe with a soft cloth does the trick.
Finally, store any spare tyre properly. If you keep it in the boot, make sure it’s not supporting the car’s weight for long periods. Inflate it to the recommended pressure and check it for damage before you need it.
By matching the right tyre to your driving style, keeping the pressure spot‑on, rotating regularly and watching the tread, you’ll get the most mileage and stay safe. Whether you’re cruising on the motorway or tackling a snowy back road, the right tyres and a little routine care make all the difference.
