Common Tire Replacement Tips
Posted: Monday, April 12, 2010
by Michael Trudel
Write Brain Communications
Understanding tire basics sounds simple. Tires are essentially flexible containers of compressed air or nitrogen. They help support a car's load and trust it forward when the driver puts it in gear and pushes the gas pedal. Tires also help stop the vehicle when braking and cushions the load from potholes or other hazards in the road.
Today, tires have many advanced components and are engineered for important tasks such as absorbing more bumps, providing better cornering ability and helping the driver with sharp steering responses. Here are some tips to help add some life to your tires when replacing tires.
The same tire type should be used on all four wheels for the best performance. Different size tires, constructions and stages of tire wear may affect the vehicle handling and stability.
Mixing radial and non-radial tires on a vehicle is not advised too. If mixing tires is not avoidable during tire replacement, never mix radial and non-radial tires on the same axel.
For 4x4 and AWD vehicles following these guidelines is advisable:
Do not mix tires
Do not mix radial tires
Ensure that the outside circumference of all tires are similar
Do not mix tire tread patterns, such as all-season and all-terrain
Replace all
Matching 4x4 tires is also extremely important to avoid failure of a 4x4 driveline component that can turn into an avoidable and expensive proposition.
Tire Speed-Rating
Using replacement tires with ratings equal to or greater than original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tires originally installed on the vehicle is recommended to maintain the speed capability of the vehicle. Do not use a tire that has a lower tire speed rating.
The performance and handling may be different depending on the type of vehicle, if replacement tires are not the same speed rating. The vehicles owner manual can help identify any tire speed rating restriction that could impact the operation of the vehicle.
Same Tire Size
Choosing a tire that is the same size is critical. Don't choose a tire that is smaller or larger in size or has less load-carrying capability than the other tires on the vehicle. Tires should be replaced with the same size designation and approved options as recommended by the vehicle or tire manufacturer. The correct tire size can be found in the owner manual, on the door placard, on the sidewall of the current tires on the vehicle or by seeking the advice of your local tire retailer.
Caring for New Tires
Properly maintained tires will provide longer tire tread life and give a more comfortable ride. Here are a few final tips on proper maintenance:
Balance tires when they are mounted on the wheels
Rotate tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles
Check alignment when new tires are installed and at the first sign of uneven tire wear
Check air pressure at least monthly
Check tires frequently for tire wear, punctures, cuts, slow leaks, or injury
Clean tires with mild soap and water and a soft rag or brush
Many tips such as these can help lengthen the life of your tires during tire replacement. Consult with your local tire retailer or look for tire reviews with consumer research when selecting new tires.
About Belle Tire
People have trusted Belle Tire for the best value since 1922. Because at Belle Tire we challenge ourselves every day to make sure that you always get the lowest tire price, period. Prove it to yourself. Take the Belle Tire Price Challenge. Challenge us online, over the phone or even challenge us right in the store. Come in to any Belle Tire, and we'll check other stores' prices with you, right at the counter, and prove to you that Belle Tire has the lowest tire prices, PERIOD! Plus, at Belle Tire, you'll always get out the door with more value, services and protection with every tire installation than the competition can offer, at any price! For the Lowest Tire Price, Period and great low prices on Custom Wheels, Alignments, Brakes, Batteries, Oil and Lube, Shocks & Struts, Windshield Repair and Replacement, and more. Visit http://www.belletire.com and also join our online communities: BELLE TIRE CARES BLOG FACEBOOK TWITTER
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