Tires
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May 30, 2019
A Guide for Choosing the Best Tires for Your Budget
Tires |Buying new tires can be a stressful process for some car owners, especially if they’re unfamiliar with automotive jargon and aren’t sure what to look for. But that’s why we’re here to help! If you’re looking to choose the best tires for your budget, keep reading our guide, which will delve into the basics of your tires, factors to consider in new tires, short-term vs. long-term value, and more.
Understanding Your Tires
Before you hit the road in search of the perfect tires, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Tires may seem similar at first glance, but they come in various types, sizes, and ratings that cater to specific needs and driving conditions. First, you should familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s current tires and their size, which you can find by reading the tire sidewall information.
How To Read Your Tire’s Sidewall Info
Reading a tire’s sidewall information is crucial for car owners because it contains vital data about the tire’s specifications, helping to ensure compatibility and safety. The sidewall typically includes information such as the tire’s width, aspect ratio, construction type, and diameter. For example, a marking like “P215/65R15” indicates a passenger tire that is 215 millimeters wide, has an aspect ratio of 65, is of radial construction, and fits a 15-inch diameter wheel.
The sidewall will also display the load index and speed rating, which informs you of the tire’s maximum load capacity and speed capability. Knowing how to interpret these details empowers vehicle owners to select the right tires, maintain optimal performance, and prevent potential safety hazards.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Tires on a Budget
When selecting tires on a budget, there are many things to consider, from the tread life to the rolling resistance and more.
Durability and Tread Life
First, drivers must consider the tread and durability of the tires they’re selecting, as it’s indicative of how long they’ll last before you’ll need to replace them. The tread pattern influences how evenly the tire wears over time, which can affect driving comfort and handling. By opting for tires with excellent treadwear ratings, you can ensure that you get the most value for your investment.
We don’t expect you to be an expert on tread design, so it’s best to consult with an expert, like one of the many tire experts at our tire shop in Tucson, who would be eager to help you find the ideal tire and tread pattern for your vehicle!
Fuel Efficiency and Rolling Resistance
Another key factor in determining the value of a tire is its fuel efficiency and rolling resistance. Tires with lower rolling resistance reduce the energy your engine needs to move forward, leading to significant fuel savings over time, which can offset their slightly higher upfront cost.
Selecting these tires saves you money at the pump and reduces your carbon footprint, making it an environmentally friendly choice. When considering tires that fit into your budget, don’t forget about rolling resistance.
Handling and Braking Performance
Drivers need to prioritize the handling and braking performance of the tires. A tire that offers superior handling can make daily drives more comfortable and safer, while good braking performance is essential for emergency stops. Even for budget-friendly tires, handling and braking should always be priority factors in your decision.
Finding Value in Tires: Short-Term vs. Long-Term
When choosing the best tires for your budget, drivers must weigh the trade-offs of budget tires and their short-term value against premium tires with their long-term value. Our guide will compare the two to help you decide which is best for you and your vehicle.
The Short-Term Value of Budget Tires
When considering budget tires, the temptation to opt for the cheapest set can be strong. While low-cost tires may appear attractive due to their price, it’s crucial to evaluate the short-term savings against their long-term value. Budget tires will wear down faster than premium tires because of the lower quality of their rubber and tread pattern.
Premium Tires and Their Long-Term Value
On the flip side, premium tires might seem costly at first, but they typically provide longer tread life, better performance, and improved fuel efficiency. Over several years, these advantages can lead to significant savings compared to cheaper alternatives. If you regularly drive long distances, investing in a quality set of tires may be worthwhile for ensuring reliability and performance over time.
Tips for Getting the Best Deals on Tires
Shopping for tires can be a real hassle, and finding the best deals is easier said than done. Below, we offer a few tips to find the best deals on new tires.
Cast a Wide Net of Comparison
Getting the most bang for your buck when purchasing tires requires a bit of savvy shopping and strategic planning. Start by thoroughly researching where to buy tires at the best price. Local dealerships, automotive stores, and online retailers often have competitive pricing, but the key is to look beyond just one source.
Utilize comparison websites and apps that aggregate tire prices from multiple vendors, allowing you to see a comprehensive range of options. Don’t shy away from comparing prices and asking for quotes from different sellers to get a clear picture of what’s available.
Take Advantage of Seasonal Promotions
Seasonal promotions and tire sales can also offer substantial savings that savvy shoppers won’t want to miss. Many retailers provide discounts during specific times of the year, such as spring and fall, when drivers prepare for changes in road conditions. Keep an eye on these sales events, as they often coincide with industry trends and consumer demands, making them the perfect opportunity to purchase tires at a reduced rate.
Maintenance and Care To Extend Tire Life
Whether you opt for budget-friendly tires or invest in a premium set, it’s in your best interest to ensure they last as long as possible. To do that, you’ll need to manage proper maintenance and care to extend their lifespan.
Regular Check and Adjust Tire Pressure
Under-inflated tires cause increased wear and fuel consumption as they create more rolling resistance and generate excess heat. This shortens the lifespan of the tires and leads to dangerous blowouts. Over-inflated tires also negatively impact handling, comfort, and traction, making your vehicle harder to control, especially in adverse weather conditions.
To ensure your tires remain in top condition, it’s essential to regularly check your tire pressure—ideally monthly and before long trips—and adjust according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Rotate and Align Tires
Regular tire rotations and alignments are also crucial for maintaining your tires’ health and overall vehicle performance. Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles helps distribute wear evenly across all tires, prolonging their lifespan and ensuring a smoother ride.
Drivers must also ensure the proper alignment of their wheels, as misalignment can lead to uneven wear, poor handling, and diminished fuel efficiency. The typical interval for tire alignments is roughly every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or every other oil change.
Get the Ideal Tires for Your Vehicle and Budget at RNR Tire Express
As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when shopping for new tires. That’s why it’s a huge benefit for drivers to have a dedicated tire expert they can trust to guide them in the right direction.
Our tire experts at RNR Tire Express can do just that for you! Schedule an appointment at one of our stores or browse our online inventory to find the ideal tires for your car and budget.
