Tire Basics

How to interpreting DOT tire codes. We help you decode where and when your tires were made, so you can make sure you aren’t buying outdated tires. This is part of our series on smart shopping tips for tire buyers.

Tire valve stems are the pathway to getting air into tires. This article explains their function, types, common issues, and replacement tips.

What’s the significance of yellow and red dots on your new tires? These markings help installers align and mount your tires. Learn how these simple indicators can enhance your driving experience and prevent uneven wear. And, is it safe to remove them?

What’s that sound? From squealing during sharp turns to screeching while braking, understanding these sounds can help you diagnose potential issues and maintain optimal tire performance.

Did you know that for every 10°F decrease, your tire can lose 1-2 PSI? Regularly check and inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure to ensure optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of tire blowouts during the colder months.

As part of our series on tire codes, this post explains tire temperature ratings. Understanding these grades — A, B, and C — can help you choose tires that effectively dissipate heat, preventing blowouts and extending tire life.

Understanding these ratings on the sidewalls of tires — AA, A, B, and C, which determines how well tires can stop on wet pavement. This is part of our series that explains what all the numbers on the sides of tires mean.

How to measure tire tread depth in this straightforward guide. Learn essential methods like the penny test and the use of tread depth gauges to assess your tires’ health and estimate when it’s time for a replacement.

Winter tires are essential for safe driving in icy and snowy conditions, providing superior traction and handling when temperatures drop below 40°F. Designed with specialized tread patterns and rubber compounds, these tires enhance your vehicle’s stability and braking performance.

This guide explains the UTQG system, helping you understand how treadwear numbers reflect a tire’s durability and expected lifespan. Uniform Tire Quality Grading is an industry standard among manufacturers. Learn how it works.

We explain tire ply ratings and explain how they relate to load capacity in modern tire design. As the industry evolves, understanding load ratings — rather than outdated ply counts — ask the right questions and understand tire lingo when you’re talking with auto experts!

Rolling resistance maximizes your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and saves money at the pump. This energy loss, caused by tire deformation as they roll, can impact your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy.