For many in the UK, summer tyres simply mean ‘tyres’ so you’re not alone if you’ve been using the same ones all year round. Using the wrong tyres, however, can dramatically impact your car’s performance and handling so it’s worth knowing the difference between winter and summer tyres, along with when you should be changing them.
Summer tyres are needed when the weather goes above 7°C as they are designed to expand in the heat without the rubber cracking. Winter tyres are the exact opposite and work effectively when the temperatures are below 7°C and in wet and snowy conditions. The benefits of summer tyres range anywhere from better handling to improved fuel economy.
Changes to summer tyres happen when the temperature goes past this threshold, usually around March time.
But which summer tyres do you go for? There are many things to consider when picking summer tyres for your vehicle so here are six expert tips to make the process easier:
Tyre size
First things first, you’ll need to ensure that you have the right-sized car tyres. It isn’t a case of one size fits all and having the right proper wheel size keeps you driving on the road safely. To find the right tyre size, you need to measure up the section width, wall thickness, and rim diameter, and establish the load rating index and speed rating index.
Tyre tread
Tyre tread is unique to every tyre and affects all aspects of vehicle safety and performance. Not only is having the right tyre tread a legal requirement but it also cuts sound levels to make for a peaceful drive.
Most manufacturers advise a tread depth of 3mm for summer tyres. If you’re unsure that your vehicle has the correct tyre tread, you can check it using the handy 20p tyre trick.
Price
Your choice of summer tyre will be largely effective on your budget. Premium tyres are higher in price; however, they offer the most trustworthy and precise driving experience. Mid-range and budget summer tyres are also great options and are accessible at lower prices.
Specialist tyres
Depending on your car and terrain, you may need a little extra when it comes to your summer tyres. Vehicles like SUVs, campervans, and sports cars will need tyres specifically developed to achieve optimum performance.
Age
Checking the age of your summer tyres, along with how long they have been stored, can help you pick ones with a longer service life. It is recommended that you only purchase summer tyres that were manufactured in the last two years.
Weather
Luckily for us, British weather is relatively predictable. If you’re going to be involved in a lot of wet weather driving though, you need to make sure that your selected tyres have inbuilt technology to reduce risks of aquaplaning.
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