Tire Buying Guide: How Do You Know Which Tires to Buy?

Many of us make some buying decisions on a whim. Big block Crocks, anyone?

But when purchasing new tires for your car, it's rarely on a whim, and almost always because of need. Tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, so choosing the right tires can significantly impact safety, performance and fuel efficiency.

Let's delve into what you should look for when buying new tires and identify the key features that are most important for your needs. 

1. Tire Size and Type

The first step in getting new tires for your car is to determine the correct size and type. You can find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual or the placard on the driver's side door jamb. Choosing tires that match the recommended size and type is vital to ensure proper fit, performance and fuel efficiency.

Tire size is typically expressed as a series of numbers and letters, such as P215/65R16. Here's what each part of the code means:

• P or LT: This indicates whether the tire is for passenger cars (P) or light trucks (LT).
• 215: This is the tire's width in millimeters.
• 65: This is the aspect ratio, representing the tire's height as a percentage of its width.
• R: This stands for radial construction, which is the most common type of tire.
• 16: This is the diameter of the wheel the tire is designed to fit, in inches.

Related: What do the numbers on the side of tires mean?

Choosing the correct type of tire is also important. There are various tire types, including all-season, summer, winter and performance tires. Your choice should depend on the driving conditions where you live. Check out our post explaining the different types of tires to better understand.

2. Tread Pattern and Traction

The tread pattern of a tire plays a significant role in its performance. Tread patterns are designed to provide specific benefits, such as improved traction, handling and water evacuation. When selecting new tires, consider the type of weather and terrain you encounter regularly.

• All-season tires: These offer a good balance of performance in various conditions. They are suitable for most drivers who don't face extreme weather conditions. We explain all season vs all weather in a related post.
• Summer tires: Designed for warm weather, summer tires provide excellent grip and handling on dry roads. However, they may not perform well in cold or snowy conditions. 
• Winter tires: If you live in an area with harsh winters, winter tires are necessary. They provide superior traction on snow and ice, improving safety and control. Get the guide to winter and snow tires.
• Performance tires: These are designed for sports cars and high-performance vehicles, offering enhanced grip and handling on dry roads. However, they may not be suitable for everyday use in all conditions. This article lists some of our favorite all-season performance tires. 

Tread patterns aren't there for looks. They're engineered for driving in various conditions. Want to learn more? Check out our article explaining everything you need to know about tread patterns.

3. Load Capacity and Speed Rating

Every tire is designed to carry a specific load, which the load index indicates. Choose tires with a load index that matches or exceeds the weight of your vehicle. Exceeding the load capacity can lead to tire failure and safety hazards.

On the other hand, speed ratings indicate the maximum speed a tire can safely handle. These ratings range from Q (99 mph) to Y (186 mph). Ensure that the speed rating of your chosen tires meets or exceeds your vehicle's top speed capabilities. Here is a thorough article explaining load capacity and speed rating.

4. Fuel Efficiency

Tire selection can impact your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Tires with lower rolling resistance can improve gas mileage, which can lead to cost savings over time. Look for tires labeled "low rolling resistance" to maximize fuel efficiency without compromising performance. Here is a post describing what rolling resistance is and why it's important.

5. Noise and Comfort

The level of road noise and ride comfort can vary among tire models. If a quiet and comfortable ride is a priority for you, read reviews and seek recommendations from other drivers who prioritize these factors. 

Some premium tires are designed to minimize noise and provide a smoother ride. Here's a deeper look into why tires make noise and some quiet options.

6. Budget and Brand

Your budget is a significant consideration when buying new tires. While it's tempting to opt for the cheapest option, remember that tires are a long-term investment in safety and performance. It's often worth spending a bit more for high-quality tires from reputable brands known for durability and performance.

Read reviews to get an idea of which manufacturers have a strong reputation for producing reliable tires. Keep in mind that some lesser-known brands may offer good value, so don't discount them entirely.

How to Know What Tires to Buy (Online Search Tool)

Tire Agent makes it easy to choose tires by having shoppers start with the make, model, year and trim level of their vehicles. Then, we ask users to verify the size of the tire, which you can get either from the codes on the side of your existing tires, from the sticker on the inside of your driver's side door, or by reading your vehicle owner's manual.

SHOP TIRES NOW

We'll list all available options for your vehicle, and you can browse by price, brand, and other features. Use the Featured Filters to sort the list by current deals, great warranty or best value for the price. 

If you are still unsure how to choose a tire, you can always use the Live Chat feature or contact a tire professional.

If you're wondering how to buy new tires when you're living on a tight budget, you've got to check out Tire Agent's payment plans. We've made it incredibly easy to apply with a single application, and the options won't affect your credit score. 

Where Should You Buy Tires?

Marketing experts tell us that today's shoppers use an average of 8 channels before making purchase decisions (Source). Which means, we know that while you're shopping for tires online with us, you're also checking your local retailers and other sources, and you should. 

Here are some questions you should ask when buying tires:

• What is the mileage warranty for the tires you recommend?
• How much does the online tire seller charge for shipping? (Tire Agent is always free within the US.)
• Would you put these tires on your child's/spouse's/parent's car?
• Should I get 2 tires or 4?
• Does my spare tire need to be replaced too?
• How will the tires affect fuel economy?
• What tread type is my existing tire, and what tread type do I need for my driving style and location?
• Should I get winter tires, or all-season?
• What are your current deals, coupons, rebates and discounts? Are there any coming up?

Get answers to FAQs about buying tires online with Tire Agent. 

Bonus Tips for Buying Tires: Don't ignore maintenance

Once you've found the right tires for your car, regular tire maintenance, such as tire rotations and proper inflation, is vital to extending their life and ensuring consistent performance. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

• Tire Agent's guide to tire rotation
• Tire Agent's guide to tire balancing and rotation

By understanding your driving needs and priorities, you can select tires that provide optimal performance, safety and value for your investment. Always consult a tire expert for personalized recommendations based on your vehicle and driving habits.

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