Question:  I need new tires, but how do I know which tires to select?

Express Car Care Answer:  Let’s look at selecting new tires in light of three factors:  Function, Fit, and Value.

Function:  This deals with what your needs are for new tires.  Weather conditions, terrain, temperatures, etc.

New family vehicles sold in Colorado come with all-season tires.  They can be used all year long and do pretty well on average road conditions – but they aren’t ideal in extreme conditions.

Winter tires have a more aggressive tread for handling snow and ice and they have a rubber compound that helps them have better traction as temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit/ 7 degrees Centigrade.  In Colorado winter weather, that means better stopping and road-holding characteristics for driving than all-season tires.

Dedicated summer tires enhance warm weather performance driving.

If you drive off-road in the foothills and mountains around Denver, there is a spectrum of tire choices, from all-terrain ( a good mix of highway and off-road capability) to dedicated off-road tires.

The key to selecting tires is to discuss the function you’re looking for with your tire professional, so you get the type of tire, load rating, speed rating and wear rating you need.

Fit:  The easiest thing is to select tires in the same size that were installed at the factory.  If you want a different size wheel or tire profile, be sure to work with a professional that can make sure that your new wheels and tires fit properly and don’t rub when your vehicle bumps or turns.  It’s also important to make sure that safety systems like anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control aren’t adversely affected by the new tire size. ( The computer may need to be recalibrated in order to make the necessary adjustments.)

Value:  Notice I didn’t say price.  The tire that meets all your needs and has the warranty and tread life you expect will probably not be the cheapest option – but it may well return the best value for your tire dollar.

Your friendly and helpful Express Car Care service adviser is ready and willing to discuss the options with you before you make this automotive decision.