Time For New Tires?
A lot of factors go into selecting new tires: weather conditions, traction, handling, fuel efficiency, load capacity, tread life, looks, warranty and price. The U.S. driving conditions vary by State and can include commuting at increased speeds on the highway to crawling up mountainous terrains; from blistering deserts to the frozen tundra – and everything in between. Your NAPA AutoCare Center can help you determine the proper tire for your driving.
If you're happy with your current wheels, then talk with your NAPA AutoCare Center about where you drive, how you drive, if you tow or carry heavy loads, if you're sensitive to tire noise and other tire characteristics. They can suggest appropriate options for your particular needs.
Car owners looking for new wheels need to keep in mind some practical matters. For example, you may want to upgrade your SUV with larger wheels and low profile tires. However, if you plan to do some off-roading in your area, your low profile tires may not work well in dirt and mud. Plus, low profile tires will not protect your rims from flying rocks that could cause damage. You need a tire and wheel combination that meets all your needs.
Also, important electronic safety systems like traction control, stability control and anti-lock brakes are calibrated for a specific rolling diameter tire. If you're going smaller or larger, the systems need to be recalibrated to your new tire and wheel combination.
Along the same lines, extremely large tires and wheels may not fit inside your wheel wells causing the tires to rub when you turn or go over bumps. You may require suspension modifications to safely accommodate the look you're going after. Same goes for very small tires and wheels.
Just ask your NAPA AutoCare Center for ideas to help you get the look you want with a tire that meets your performance and safety needs.
Posted
August 15th, 2013