The choice of summer tires can vary depending on the type of vehicle, usage conditions, and weather conditions. Which tire should I install? How can I select the summer tire for my car? If you’re grappling with these questions, you can find a general guide here for choosing the appropriate summer tire.
What should you pay close attention to?
First, you need to determine whether you want summer, winter, or all-season tires. When temperatures rise above 7 degrees Celsius in summer, it’s recommended to switch to summer tires. This is because the heat of summer can cause your winter tires to melt and deform quickly.
Don’t forget that your vehicle consists of four tires that collectively contribute to your safety, regardless of traction. When ordering tires, you should purchase all four pieces.
Vehicle Type
First, consider your vehicle’s type. You must know your vehicle’s model and year of manufacture. Different vehicle types, such as cars, SUVs, or vans, require different types and sizes of tires.
Seasonal Suitability
Summer tires are generally designed for mild and warm weather conditions. They are not specifically tailored for low temperatures like winter tires are. If your region expects snow, ice, and frost during the winter months, opting for winter tires is advisable.
Should it be “RFT” or not?
Run Flat tires (RFT) are tires with run-flat capabilities, meaning they can still function even when they’re completely flat. Run Flat tires allow you to continue driving at speeds of around 80 km/h for about 80 kilometers even after the tire has burst.
Tire Size
Do you enjoy long trips or occasionally push your limits? Consider the characteristics of tires to find one that suits your driving style.
The tire size specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer is crucial for your vehicle’s safety and performance. You should use the appropriate tire size for your location. You can find this information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the sticker inside the door.
Load Capacity and Speed Rating
It’s important to select the right tires for your vehicle type and choose the appropriate load capacity and speed rating. You can find this information in your car’s manual or on tire manufacturer websites.
Tire Brand and Model
There are numerous tire brands and models in the market. Opting for a high-quality product can lead to better performance and a longer lifespan. You can also seek advice from a reputable tire expert.
Fuel Efficiency
Tire fuel efficiency affects your vehicle’s fuel consumption. Did you know that tires can be responsible for up to 20% of your vehicle’s fuel consumption? Choosing tires with high fuel efficiency can lead to lower fuel consumption.
Opting for tires with a high fuel efficiency class can allow you to cover more kilometers per tank and reduce CO2 emissions. Depending on rolling resistance, tire fuel efficiency ranges from Class A for the best fuel consumption to Class E for the poorest.
Fuel consumption increases by about 0.1 liters per 100 km traveled between classes. Simply put, fuel-efficient tires require less energy during rotation, resulting in lower fuel consumption and less environmental impact.
Tire Labeling
Labels on tires sold in the European Union provide important information such as wet braking performance, fuel efficiency, and exterior noise level. Paying attention to these labels can assist you in making the right tire choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right summer tire is essential for the safety and performance of your vehicle.
The rule of thumb is to choose tires suitable for your vehicle type, consider seasonal conditions, and take into account important information such as tire size, load capacity, and speed rating. A knowledgeable tire expert can help you make the right choice.