Have you ever given much thought to the type of tyres you have on your car? Or do you always replace them with identical versions? It’s worth taking the time to discover more about the different tyres that are out there and what they can do. By doing this, you could improve your driving experience and enjoy a smoother drive.
So, what are the different tyre types to look out for? There is a wide range to choose from, so having a quick-look guide to what’s on offer can come in handy. To help you choose, here’s a look at what’s available.
Do I need to insure my tyres?
Before you begin your search for the perfect tyres, it could be worth considering taking out some cover to protect the ones you buy – especially as these new tyres can be a real investment to your vehicle.
If your tyres become damaged or need replacing as a result of accidental or deliberate damage, it can prove costly. While not essential, taking out tyre insurance can give you added peace of mind and can potentially work out cheaper than paying for individual replacements.
Have a look through this guide to different tyres that are available for your motor and see if you think taking out this type of cover could suit you.
The different tyre types
So, what are the different types of tyres? To tell them apart, look out for the rubber compound and the tread pattern. These two details are where the tyre tech is applied to make one type of tyre distinguishable from another.
Summer tyres
These have a rubber compound that’s designed to provide added grip and handling in both dry and wet conditions, making them ideal for use in the changeable British summer weather. This added grip, combined with their minimal grooves produced by their streamlined tread pattern, helps to prevent cars from aquaplaning.
However, what makes them excellent for summer conditions is what makes them unsuitable for winter. The compound in the tyres become hard if the temperature drops below 7⁰C, while the tread isn’t able to handle icy weather.
Winter tyres
The tread compound of winter tyres contains more rubber, so it doesn’t become brittle in temperatures that drop below 7⁰C. The tread is also deeper in order to provide added grip in wintry conditions.
These tyres are incompatible with summer weather as the compound is too soft for dry tarmac that’s been in the sun.
All-season tyres
There isn’t a tyre yet that can handle all seasons effectively. However, all-season tyres come close. These tyres offer a combination of summer and winter tyres, taking elements of both. However, they’re not quite one or the other to withstand extreme weather on either side of the thermometer.
Run-flat tyres
Run-flat tyres are designed to withstand a puncture and keep your car moving until you can swap the tyre out. They feature a reinforced sidewall that is strong enough to keep the tyre’s rim suspended above the ground when it deflates, holding the weight of your car as the air pressure in the tyre begins to fall.
Energy saving tyres
Energy saving tyres have low levels of rolling resistance to reduce fuel consumption, offering better fuel economy and a decrease in CO2 emissions. Major manufacturers have created energy saving tyres to reduce pollution.
This is just a selection of the tyre types that are available. The ones you choose will depend on the type of car you have and the drive you’re looking for. Take your time and research each one so you find the tyres that are the perfect fit for your motor.
