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One of the parts of a car that we replace most frequently is the tyre. But making the appropriate choice is essential if you want to protect your care and save money.

Cheap tyres Northampton typically have a 5,000 - 20,000 mile lifespan. Consequently, it is imperative that you quickly learn which tyres fit your car.

Today, we will go over every marking on a tyre, what it means, and which ones you should be aware of. Are you prepared to master this? To find out more, scroll down.

The most common types of tyres

Learn about the most common types of tyres before you do anything. These will assist you in selecting the tyres that best fit your car and that you like the way they look. See the most popular categories listed below.  

Caution! Never use mismatched tyres on a pair of axles.

Low profile tyres

Small sidewalls on low-profile tyres allow the outside diameter to be closer to the wheel's diameter. These are frequently observed on automobiles with huge wheels - 17" and larger.

Advantages of low-profile tyres

• Less sidewall bending occurs.

• When cornering, tyres respond more quickly.

• Allow for a greater alloy size while keeping the exterior diameter in check.

• Excellent for both style and performance.

• Permit larger intervals to be incorporated.

Disadvantages of low-profile tyres

• Sometimes, as there is less rubber to soften road bumps, the ride is harder. 

• Less protection because the alloy is closer to the road.

• Kerbs are more prone to cause damage to wheels.

Run Flat Tyres 

The "Run Flat" tyre was developed by major tyre maker Michelin to facilitate driving on tyres lacking air pressure. Even though you should not, if your tyre punctures and loses a lot of air, this is essential. These tyres are useful when you break down on a motorway since you have to keep going until you reach a safe spot. 

Today's tyres are made using a new process. The idea is the same: an automobile with an airless tyre can travel more than 40 miles at times.  

But do not depend just on run-flat tyres! You still have to periodically check the pressure of your tyres.

On a select few vehicles, mostly BMW and other German brands, Bridgestone Tyres have become standard equipment.   

Advantages of run-flat tyres

• Permit you to drive without any interruptions.

• Protects you in the event of a puncture.

• Reduces tension on lengthy trips.

• Decreased chance of a tyre rupturing at the rim.

• There is no need to stop by the side of the road and swap out tyres.

Disadvantages of run-flat tyres

• Usually, they cost two to three times as much as regular tyres.

• Run-flats are difficult to change and some garages will not touch them.

• Many run-flat tyres are irreparable.

 High load capacity tyres (HL tyres)

The weight of hybrid and electric vehicles is supported by HL tyres. They increase load-carrying capacity without requiring tyre size adjustments. The "HL" prefix at the beginning of the tyre size information is typically used to identify an HL tyre.

Advantages of HL tyres

• Enhanced safety for electric and hybrid vehicles.

• Complies with all applicable laws.

• Enhanced stopping power.

• Lower upkeep expenses because the tyres are more specialist.

• Increased stability on the road.

• Resilience.

Disadvantages of HL tyres 

• Not for vehicles with less horsepower.

• Limited performance (not suitable for winter or off-road driving).

• Not accessible everywhere.

OE tyres

The tyres that arrive with your car are called "Original Equipment" (OE) tyres. You can be sure these are compatible with your car because your manufacturer approved them.

Certain automakers fit their vehicles with name-brand tyres specifically designed for them. You will notice an OE marking on your sidewall if this applies to your vehicle. If your automobile has original tyres, it is recommended that you use them. 

Alfa Romeo vehicles, for instance, are marked with an AR, Hyundai vehicles with an HN, and Volvo vehicles with a VOL.

Various Climate-Appropriate Tyre

Were you aware that different seasons require different tyres? Yes, it is correct. The wheels are impacted by the weather. 

Summer and winter climatic tyres are the two main categories of climatic tyres. For winter tyres to handle snow and ice, they must have more grip. If you live in a place with severe winters, rotate your tyres as the seasons change. 

All-season tyres are the better choice if you reside somewhere where there are sporadic snowfalls but generally moderate winters. If you reside somewhere where the winters are warmer (below 7°C), you can use summer tyres all year round.

Tyres For Different Driving Needs

The tyres you choose also depend on how you drive. Consider your driving style for a moment and choose your tyres accordingly.

Quiet and comfortable rides

Look for tyres that are designed for comfort and have lower speed ratings (e.g., H, S, or T ratings) if you want a quiet and smooth ride. These provide you with greater stability and less emphasis on speed.  

Additionally, avoid using aggressive tread designs. They can produce more noise.  

Passionate drivers

Consider getting tyres with superior handling or steering precision if you are an enthusiastic driver who enjoys feeling the curve of the road. These tyres, which are stiffer but more accurate, are commonly referred to as "high-performance" tyres.

Conclusion

Make sure you choose the correct tyres for your vehicle as soon as possible. With any luck, this brief instruction has put you on the proper route. Do not forget to refer to your user manual and your old tyre type. Always seek professional advice before choosing an old tyre set if you are doubtful.