Everything you must know before shopping for tires online

All searches for everything begin on the internet. But, a search for something like automotive parts online can bombard you with more information than you can handle. Take tires for example; there are different types and sizes available across hundreds of brands. Additionally, there are multiple factors to consider before changing your tire, including the when, how, and where of things.

So, to make your online shopping experience more pleasant, we have covered the essential questions you may have and answered it succinctly. It is essential to know the answers to these before shelling out big bucks for a tire change. From simple tests to determine viability to the top providers that offer the best deals, the ultimate tire guide awaits.

When should you change a tire?
There are two simple ways to check if you indeed need to invest hundreds of dollars in new treads. You can either do the penny test or gauge the tread mark on the wear bars.

• Penny test
  Why use a penny? Because it a coin that can easily fit into the shallowest grooves of the tire. Using the embossing of President Lincoln’s portrait on the back of the coin, you can effectively gauge the tread wear. If the top of the head is still visible, the tread pattern has been worn out significantly and needs immediate replacement.
• Check wear bars
  The wear bars are small rubber bars that are placed in the grooves of the treads and are equally spread across the tire. If the bars align and are even with the tread pattern, it means only 2/32-inch is remaining. When the wear bars are clearly visible without much effort, it is time for a tire change.

There are other indications that suggest a tire change is in order. For example, while driving, if your vehicle keeps pulling to one side or does not slow down despite braking, the treads might be worn out. In some cases, adjusting the tire pressure does help solve the problem. But mostly, these signs indicate that it is time for a replacement. You also have to understand that not all the treads wear out evenly and therefore not all tired need to be replaced together.

There are many factors like driving style, load and weight distribution, and driving speed to name a few that cause uneven wear. It is advisable to know how old the tires are by checking the date of manufacture printed on the tire wall. Most of them come with a warranty for a limited number of miles that are deemed safe to be driven. Once it crosses that threshold, it’s time for a change.

Choosing the right tire type
Tires are designed and manufactured separately for passenger vehicles/minivans, sports/luxury car, or SUV/trucks/heavy-duty vehicles. They mostly feature summer tread, winter or snow tread, all-season or all-purpose tread, and high-performance tread patterns. Passenger and high-performance sports or luxury vehicle-tread patterns have a maximum safe-driving speed limit.

On the other hand, truck tires are designed to bear much more load, which is why their composition is different. You can find all the information on the sidewall of the tire. Before you can determine what type of treads are best suited for the vehicle, assess your driving conditions. Weather plays a key role in this case as the climate also determines the wear and tear.

For warm climate zones
If you live in places where the temperature does not go below the freezing point and the climate is relatively warm for most of the year, consider buying all-season or summer tires. These treads are specially designed to tackle hot driving conditions and will last long in such weather.

For seasonal climate zones
Depending on the type of season, you are likely to have no choice but to change the treads accordingly. When the temperature goes below freezing point, its best to switch to winter tires that feature unique compounds to make the tread more pliable and soft. This ensures maximum grip in snow, slush, and icy conditions. The rest of the year, you can alternate between summer treads and all-season treads. Note that this is for your own safety as tread designs and patterns vary for a reason.

Replace in sets
Tires are usually replaced in sets of two and four as it is better to buy the same type and quality for better driving, handling, and cornering. A spare must be kept handy in case you have a flat out in the middle of nowhere. As mentioned earlier, the tread pattern often wears out unevenly, making it essential to check with a service expert to determine which tires need to be changed first. Alternatively, if you can afford to replace all four, it is advisable to do the same.

Top four online tire dealers
You can order a single tread pattern or a full set online across these sellers.

• Discount Tire
  The company has been servicing your automobile needs for nearly 6 decades. Discount Tire features a wide range of options for tire change across top brands including Michelin, Goodyear, Pirelli, and Cooper to name a few. Explore the best deals on all season/performance/terrain tires with great servicing.
• Tire Rack®
  One of the best advantages of shopping with this retailer is their Tire Decision Guide that helps you find just the right fit for your vehicle. You get to explore deals with helpful shopping tools and post making a purchase, Tire Rack® also helps you locate the nearest independent service for proper installation.
• Pep Boys
  Pep Boys is one of the oldest and most frequented auto institutions for parts and supplies in the country. Started by four friends who served in the Navy in 1921, today there is nothing that you cannot get — right from tires and spares to exclusive accessories.
• TireBuyer
  TireBuyer features offers on all types and brands of tires throughout the year. With a vast network of 9000+ installers spread across the country, you can choose one that is nearest to your location for a proper installation straight at checkout.