Replacing your tyres can be a very confusing time for a consumer. With hundreds of different options out there on the market and costs ranging anywhere between £60 – £150 per tyre, it’s hard to know what you’re exactly paying for and what option is best for you.
We’ve decided to create the ultimate buying guide to help answer some of the common questions people have around replacing their tyres. In this blog, we will be covering how frequently your tyres need to be replaced, what tyres will fit your car and the differences between all of the major industry brands. The aim is to help you make an informed decision when it comes to next replacing your tyres.
How often should you replace your tyres?
When it comes to replacing your tyres, it all comes down to how much thread you have on your tyres. The legal minimum tyre thread is 1.6mm so it’s recommended that you replace your tyres when they reach about 2mm to avoid you being at risk of driving illegally.
An often misconception amongst drivers is that they need to be replaced every couple of years, this is not the case at all. A brand new tyre should cover 20,000 to 30,000 miles before it needs to be replaced, this means that how long your tyre last is dependent on your mileage, not how long it’s been since they have last been replaced.
Which tyres will fit my car?
On the side of your tyre, you will be able to find writing which will define the tyre width, profile, rim size and speed rating. You can use this information to find the right tyres that will fit your car. Alternatively, the owner’s manual should provide information on the recommended tyre size for your vehicle.
What is the difference between tyre manufacturers?
The most obvious difference between tyre brands is the cost, but what are you actually getting for the money? Well, different tyre brands will use different materials and manufacturing processes to create a tyre at the desired budget. Low-end brands will often look to source cheaper materials to provide a cost-effective option for the end customer. High-end brands will use the best material, technology and manufacturing processes to leave you with a high-performance long-lasting tyre.
Popular tyre brands at Autocentres
As a trusted local garage we have taken the time to compile some of our most popular tyre manufacturers and have provided a short review on the company and what makes them different:
Nexen
Nexen is a tyre manufacturer headquartered in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province and Seoul in South Korea. Now popular within the UK market due to their Manchester City F.C. sponsorship and local stockists, Nexen is known for its rubber/stratified silicate nano-composite tyres which are highly durable.
Dunlop
One of the most popular budget tyre brands, Dunlop have become one of the UK’s top choice when it comes to tyre replacements. Available in summer, winter or all-season options, Dunlop tyres can be fitted on almost all domestic vehicles including Car SUV/4×4 Light Truck.
Pirelli
Pirelli is an Italian tyre manufacturer that currently ranks 6th in size when looking at the global tyre production market for cars, motorcycles and bicycles. Recently entering the winter tyre market, Pirelli tyres offer optimal grip and a high level of traction on dry or wet roads, reducing the risk of aquaplaning. Pirelli, this performance tyres at their finest.
Michelin
A brand known for tyres as well as the guide awards for excellent food establishments, Michelin leads the way in safety comfort and fuel efficiency. Michelin is a global tyre manufacturer with over 130 years of history, simply put, Michelin is a brand you can trust when it comes to finding your new tyres
Finding the right tyre for your car
Before getting your new tyres fitted, make sure to set yourself a clear budget and consider when and where you will be using your vehicle most. By having this information in hand when you visit your local tyre centre, your fitter can help advise you about the best tyres for your needs.