How to Choose and Care for the Right Season Tyres?
Nowadays, there are several different types of cars, van and truck tyres worldwide. Having so much variety handy, sometimes it becomes challenging to choose the best tyres for your vehicle. Our guide will assist you in finding the right tyre that suits your vehicle, usage on roads, and comprehending the external environment.
Understanding Tyre Codes
The code, which is usually imprinted on either left or right side of each tyre in Ireland, follows a standard format. Like take a code example: 177550R1596H
This code is first broken down into several components like: 175/ 50/ R/ 16/ 96/ H
Now, let’s understand what these car or van tyres codes mean and indicate
- 175 refers to the width of the tyres, usually measured in millimeters
- 50 is credited as an aspect ratio. That ratio is between the percentage of tyre’ width and its height.
- R generally stands for Radial. As you know, most present in the tyres Centre of Ireland are radial tyres. Radial tyres indicate that they are constructed from accurately positioned cords across the width of the tyres. Usually, they are positioned 90oC in the tread’s direction. That ultimately offers much more strength to new tyres than older styled tyres, which used to come with cords positioned at a diagonal angle.
- 15 number shows the inches of wheel rim’s width on which the tyre is to be fitted
- 96 number generally refers to the load rating. All load ratings in the load table lists equal the corresponding weight in the kilograms the tyre can handle on roads.
- Lastly, the H letter indicates the speed rating of the tyres. That usually refers to the maximum speed at which a tyre can be used on the road. This rating is generally calculated from testing different tyres at specific speeds, that too, over a sustained period.
Types of Tyres Suitable for Different Weathers in Ireland
1. Summer Tyres
In Ireland, summer car, van, or truck tyres come with simple tread patterns to perform best at temperatures above 7oC. In addition, they are somehow made of softer compounds which let them offer better fuel economy and reduced resistance to both wet and dry roads. Moreover, they also present better road handling and stability in warmer conditions.
2. Winter Tyres
Although there are no severe snow conditions in Ireland, still in winters, many people tend to switch from summer to winter tyres. The winter tyres are usually made of wear-resistant polymer, due to which they offer better traction and optimal grip on wet roads. Moreover, they have a unique snowflake with a mountain symbol marked on them.
3. All-season tyres
Besides the season-specific summer and winter tyres, there are also some all-season tyres in the tyres centre of several reliable tyre companies of Ireland. Such tyres eliminate the need to change and replace tyres after every seasonal change. They work well in all external environments because they are made of a unique compound that significantly handles all weather changes. Moreover, they also feature a distinct groove pattern in order to avoid aquaplaning on rough and highly wet roads.
How to Look After Your Tyres in Ireland?
Regardless of whichever type of tyre you choose, it is essential to take good care of them. Maintaining correct air pressure in them is one of the best ways to prolong their lifespan. Therefore, it is always suggested to check tyre pressure every day and adjust it according to your vehicular needs, loading, and specifications.
In addition to that, properly look after any wear and tear signs. Or if you see any spots that may lead to tyre bursts. In such cases, arrange to check properly from your best nearby tyre dealer like Rathdowney Quick Fit.
Furthermore, if you intend to get the best out of your car or van tyres, you will have to rotate them periodically through their wheels. Frequent rotation helps in ensuring that their wear and tear is even. For this, several tyre manufacturers recommend their rotation roughly after every six months.
