National Tire Safety Week is approaching, and to celebrate, we would like to go over some of the most critical components of tires and why it’s so vital to have the correct tires for your vehicle.
Tires have come a long way in terms of innovation and development to improve efficiency and effectiveness on the road. There are various factors that go into determining what makes a good tire and ensuring that the tires are properly maintained.
- Tire Dimensions: It is critical to select the correct tire size for your vehicle. The correct size is usually stamped on the tire’s sidewall and is expressed in a series of numbers and characters, such as 245/60R16. The first digits represent the tire’s width, while the numbers after the dash represent the aspect ratio, or the sidewall as a percentage of the width. With sportier vehicles running 30-40 and SUVs 45-60, the smaller the number, the smaller the sidewall. The next letter, in this case R, denotes the type of construction, which in this case is a radial tire. The last digit denotes the rim size that fits within the tire.
- Tire Pressure: Checking your tire pressure is simple and inexpensive, and it can help you avoid a traffic accident. Digital pressure gauges, dial pressure gauges, and pen-type pressure gauges are three different ways to measure your PSI, or pounds per square inch. The suggested pressure is usually around 30-35 PSI, although the manufacturer’s guideline should be checked in the owner’s manual.
- Trims: Tire trims are divided into four categories: directional, symmetrical, asymmetrical, and directional/asymmetrical. Directional thread is designed to move in only one direction and has grooves that channel water out of the way to prevent hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is the loss of steering and braking control caused by a thin layer of water between the tire’s surface and the ground. Symmetrical thread comprises symmetrical grooves and is most commonly found on non-high performance automobiles since the tire runs smoother and lasts longer. Because it combines a variety of groves to offer maximum grip for better handling and control, asymmetrical threads are most typically utilized in high-performance automobiles. Directional/asymmetrical tread tires combine two threads by including a v-shape pattern that provides excellent handling and control while still repelling water.
- Types of Tires: It’s also crucial to figure out what kind of tires you’ll need for your vehicle. Summer tires, winter tires, and all-season tires are among the classifications. In hotter climates, summer tires perform well in both dry and wet conditions. In colder climates, however, winter tires are better suited for snow and ice. Summer and winter tire properties are combined in all-season tires. Despite the fact that all-season tires have some winter qualities, it is nevertheless suggested to use certified winter tires in worse conditions.
As we approach summer vacations and road trips, it’s critical to remember the importance of keeping your tires in good repair. This National Tire Safety Week, Yorba Linda Auto Service would like to remind you to prioritize your vehicle’s safety and stop by for any needed service. Visit us at 801 S Lakeview Avenue, Unit G, Placentia, CA 92870 or click here to schedule an appointment. Lastly, don’t forget to visit us on our Facebook page!
