Complete Guide to Buying Car Tires

Tires are your car's only contact with the road. Choosing the right set affects safety, handling, fuel economy, and comfort. This guide helps you navigate the options.

Reading Tire Size

Tire size codes like 225/40 R18 tell you everything: 225 is width in mm, 40 is aspect ratio (height/width), and 18 is wheel diameter in inches. Always match the size recommended in your owner's manual.

Summer vs Winter vs All-Season

• Summer tires: Best grip in warm conditions, superior handling, not safe below 7°C
• Winter tires: Soft compound for cold, deep tread for snow, mandatory in many European countries
• All-season tires: Compromise option, adequate for mild climates, not optimal for extreme conditions

Tire Wear and Tread Depth

Legal minimum tread depth in Europe is 1.6mm, but replacement is recommended at 3mm for summer tires and 4mm for winter tires. Uneven wear may indicate alignment issues.

UTQG and Speed Ratings

The Uniform Tire Quality Grade (treadwear, traction, temperature) and speed rating (V, W, Y, etc.) indicate performance capabilities. Never install a tire with a lower speed rating than originally specified.