Finding replacement tyres can be expensive, depending on your vehicle type. Although cheap tyres serve a purpose, they are not always the best choice when searching for longevity. If you need to replace your tyres, you must know the available options and how they perform in different environments.
The following is an overview of the types of tyres available and what factors need to be considered before replacing your tyres.
How Do I Know If My Tyres Need Replacing?
It is recommended that tyres are changed every 20,000 miles travelled or every ten years, whichever comes first. However, those who drive regularly must check to ensure that their tyres are in good condition.
One of the easiest ways to check the tyres' tread is using a 20p coin. If the coin's outer band is visible, there is enough tread on the tyre. However, should it not be visible, there’s a good chance you will need a replacement tyre.
Dedicated depth gauges are available if you are searching for more precision regarding checking the tyres' tread.
However, there are other signs to look out for when determining whether the tyres on your vehicle need replacing, including the following.
Cracks on the Side of the Tyres
When the compounds in a tyre begin to break down, it will often result in visible cracks on the tyre. If you are starting to see cracks on the side of your tyres, then you need to find a replacement as soon as possible.
Blisters Appearing on the Tyres
If you suddenly find that your tyres contain blisters, then it is likely the tyre is defective. Blistered tyres often mean that air in the tyre is escaping, making them dangerous when driving. As such, a replacement is needed as soon as possible.
Vibrations in the Tyres
If you find there is a lot of vibration in the tyres when driving, then it is likely the tyres are misaligned. Although a replacement may not be needed, if the tyre is not corrected, it will wear down much faster and can be as dangerous as a worn tyre in adverse weather conditions.
Punctures in the Tyres
Although many tyres can be repaired following a puncture, there can be instances when the internal structure is damaged. If the tyre is still losing pressure following a puncture repair, you likely need new tyres.
What Types of Tyres are Available?
Some people are unsure how much they should spend on tyres and whether the available options are safe for use on the road. Tyres generally fall into the following categories.
Regardless of the tyres you purchase, they all need to be used on the road. However, there can be some differences regarding the performance of the tyres that car owners need to be aware of.
Premium Tyres
Premium tyres are often used in professional driving and racing because of their high standards. In addition to increased fuel efficiency, premium tyres will also provide drivers with greater handling and performance.
Mid-Range Tyres
As the name suggests, mid-range tyres are a midpoint between premium and budget tyres. So, while mid-range tyres may not be suitable for a professional environment, they will offer more longevity and better performance than budget tyres.
Budget Tyres
Brands manufacture budget tyres that many will not have heard of. Although this doesn’t mean the tyres are unsafe, budget tyres will not offer longevity or fuel efficiency as the options mentioned above.
Which Tyres Are The Best Choice?
Although premium tyres aren’t always necessary, they can provide regular road users with peace of mind regarding performance and longevity, especially those travelling long distances.
Mid-range tyres are ideal for those who use their vehicle for travelling to work, school runs and shopping.
Budget tyres are ideal when funds are limited, but they shouldn’t be relied upon in the long term. Although they seem cost-effective initially, they will often need replacing more than conventional options, meaning they could cost more in the long run.
Are Budget Tyres Effective Against Aquaplaning?
There can be several hazards to contend with when driving, but weather hazards can be some of the most common in the UK. Aquaplaning occurs when rainfall and large water deposits build between the wheels and the road surface.
If the tyres chosen are worn or made using inferior products, drivers could find traction and steering problems when driving in adverse weather conditions.
Many drivers will know that using mid-range and premium tyres means aquaplaning does not cause an issue.
Budget tyres can contend with aquaplaning, although vehicle owners should not use them continuously. The tread on budget tyres can wear down faster than mid-range and professional tyres.
Do Different Weather Conditions Require Different Tyres?
Although the weather conditions can vary in the UK, the differences rarely require different tyres like in other countries. However, drivers must ensure sufficient tread before starting a journey.
Should I Consider Part-Worn Tyres as Replacements?
As with budget tyres, the sale of part-worn tyres is legal in the UK. However, part-worn tyres should only be used in emergencies and must be sourced from reputable dealers. Despite the regulations in place, there have been several instances where illegal part-worn tyres have been sold.
Although these don’t provide good value for money, the most worrying aspect is that it makes the car dangerous for those driving and the passengers in the car.
Part-worn tyres can be handy when no other options are available, but a new replacement tyre must be sought as soon as possible.
Although several signs show tyres need replacing, car owners should also visually inspect the tyres once a week, as some defects will be more notable than others.
Replacing tyres can be costly, and many will search for a cost-effective way to maintain their car, but the vehicle's safety must be considered. Purchasing a reputable brand of tyres from a professional business ensures that you can always find the best fit regarding replacement tyres.