When it comes to road safety, economical driving and fuel efficiency, tyres are the first port of call for those wishing to make the most out of their driving experience. As important as the engine itself, the tyres take the brunt of your journey and give you the best possible ride from A to B, but what kind are best for your vehicle?
Choosing the right type of tyres for your car doesn’t have to be confusing, as there are specific tyres created for specific purposes. Depending on where you live and the climate you live in, the right tyres for your car can be found in your vehicle's manual, which allows you to keep check of your correct tyre pressure and health as part of your regular maintenance check-up.
There are a number of factors that determine which type of tyre your vehicle requires, which include:
- Vehicle weight
- Vehicle size
- Vehicle type
- Vehicle Use
The most important factor is in fitting the right size tyre for your vehicle. If your tyres are rated for less a value as instructed in your vehicle's manual you will put your tyres under strain in terms of weight which will mean your tyres will wear out faster and give you a little chance in terms of braking ability and manoeuvring ability in corners.
Purchase Original Equipment Tyres For Your Vehicle
One of the easiest ways of choosing car parts and accessories especially tyres is to use an OE tire (original equipment) sold by many car servicing outlets that are produced for your specific car. OE tires are the original tyres fitted to your car by the factory, and so choosing the original tyre for your specific car is a simple and easy way of maintaining your vehicle.
If you wish to upgrade to a different tyre, you can take into account the type of driving style you have to help with cornering, traction, sporty driving and other performance characteristics. If you make frequent long journeys, for example, hard wearing and long lasting tyres are a better choice than super grip sporty tyres that will wear down faster on longer journeys.
In some parts of the world where temperatures frequently drop below 7c, a set of winter tyres would work best for that climate. In areas where very high temperatures are common, your tyres will take the heavy stress and will need to be more flexible and durable in these conditions. To learn more about Mitsubishi parts and accessories click here.
Understanding Tyre Codes
Tyre codes are the numbers printed on the sidewalls of each tyre that gives specific information relating to a number of factors that a driver or fitter needs in choosing the correct tyre for their vehicle. This information holds a code that relates to specific regulations and testing results relating to the maximum speed of the tyre in safe usage, its load-bearing ability as well as the tyres key limitations.
The codes have come into line with strict testing and legal regulations but have grown with a number of manufacturers adding additional information on the tyre such as its traction rating, temperature resistance as well as tread wear ratings. Tyre sizes are given in ISO metric ratings; whereas some sports utility vehicles and light trucks use the LTHF or light truck high flotation rating system.
Quality Rating and Tyre Pressures
For a quick way to upgrade your vehicle's tyres, simply note the tyre codes on your vehicle and then opt for the same tyre code with additional features such as a harder wearing tyre, a tyre that allows more grip or traction. Purchasing AA graded tyres ensure their quality and will last you longer when your driving style is taken into account.
Whatever type you choose for your favourite Mitsubishi car, you should always take note of the official documentation on how to correctly inflate it. Inflation levels are printed on the sidewall of the tyre itself, and by sticking to these pressure levels you will get the most out of your driving experience.
