How to Fix a Car

Very few people are fluent in car language. If you have ever had to drop your car off at a mechanic, it may have sounded like they were speaking another language. You had to rely on their advice, because you simply did not know what they were talking about. Perhaps, if you have an auto inclined friend, you asked for their advice. The same language seems to transfer to your auto?s tires. You know that you need them, but beyond that, you do not understand the differences. How then, can you be sure that you are purchasing the right tires for your driving needs?

Size of tire
Different sized vehicles require different sized tires. You would not want to put large truck tires on a small compact vehicle. They would simply not fit. When purchasing tires, the retailer will often ask you what size tires you are looking for. There may be a few different sizes available for your vehicle, so it is best to understand the options of tire sizes for your specific vehicle. This will also be an important factor when price shopping different sets of tires.

Type of tire
When I talk about the type of tire, I am not talking about the brand, or the manufacturer. Instead, I am talking about the specific use of the tire. For example, some vehicles are primarily front wheel drive, whereas others are back wheel drive. Others are all wheel drive, meaning that they utilize all four wheels at the same time. However, if you have a rear wheel drive vehicle, you will want those tires to be the strongest and have the best retreading completed.

Season of driving
The season and types of roads that you drive on will also factor into your tire comparing. If you live in a primarily warm part of the country, you will not benefit from winter tires. However, if you live in the Midwest or the northern states of the country, you may need winter tires for safe driving. It is important to mention, however, that regardless whether you have all wheel drive, front wheel drive, or rear wheel drive, you must install all four winter tires, not just two. The winter driving tires are different sizes and materials, throwing off the balance of the vehicle if you only install a couple of them.

Age of tires
Some drivers may choose to purchase used tires because of the cost savings. Used tires can provide a great deal to drivers, but they need to be carefully inspected. A used tire with rough treading may need to be retreaded for safe driving. You can retread tires, however, and make them function as new tires. You will want to inquire if your tire company of choice offers tire retreading before purchasing used tires.

Brand new tires will offer you the best treading and inflation. However, they also tend to cost more. Some new tires will also come with warranties, protecting you from flat tires or problems with the tires later on. Your preferred tire company can help you evaluate your driving conditions and figure out if new or used tires are right for your specific driving conditions.

Tire inflation ability
Your tires work on inflation. The air in them allows you to handle rough and dangerous roads. Researching tires can help you make an informed decision on the safest tires. Tires need to be properly inflated at all times, and tires that do not hold air well can be dangerous. A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determined that vehicles driving on tires under inflated by more than 25% are three times more likely to be involved in a crash related to tire problems than vehicles with proper inflation.

One of the most common causes of vehicle neglect is a problem with the tires. Neglecting vehicles costs the U.S. economy over $2 billion every year, many of which can be prevented with proper tire buying. Work with your local tire company on purchasing tires that fit your individual driving needs and road conditions for optimal safety and efficiency. Your tire company should evaluate your driving conditions, size of your vehicle, and your inflation needs.