Your Ultimate Guide to Tires
Your Ultimate Guide to Tires
Posted on August 1, 2024
Your Tire Experts at Bennett Dunlop Ford
At Bennett Dunlop Ford, we pride ourselves on being the go-to experts for all your tire needs. Whether you drive a gas engine vehicle or an electric vehicle (EV), our top-notch tire services ensure your safety and comfort on the road. Let’s dive into the different types of tires and how to choose the right ones for your vehicle.
Understanding Tire Types
All-Season Tires
Versatility: Perfect for a range of weather conditions, from dry and wet roads to light snow.
Comfort: Designed for a smooth and quiet ride.
Longevity: Longer tread life due to durable rubber compounds.
All-Weather Tires
Adaptability: Performs well in both summer and winter conditions.
Safety: Provides better traction in cold weather compared to all-season tires.
Convenience: Eliminates the need for seasonal tire changes.
Winter Tires
Superior Traction: Special rubber compounds stay flexible in the cold.
Safety: Offers excellent braking and handling on snow and ice.
Control: Enhanced stability and grip for confident driving in winter conditions.
EV Tires - Specially Designed for Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles have unique tire requirements. EV-specific tires are crafted to handle the extra weight of the battery, offer better range, and provide improved rolling resistance. These tires are quieter, thanks to sound-dampening layers and harmonically balanced tread patterns, ensuring a smooth and silent ride.
Key Differences from Gas Engine Tires:
Original Equipment (OE) Tires: Chosen by manufacturers for optimal performance, safety, and comfort.
Size and Load: Must match OE specifications to maintain efficiency and handling.
Performance: Designed to handle high torque and quick acceleration.
Quietness: Special layers reduce road noise, complementing the silent EV motors.
Heat Resistance: Stiffer compounds withstand the heat generated by electric motors.
When OE tires aren't available, other EV-specific tires can ensure better range and efficiency. Avoid using non-EV tires as they may not handle the extra weight and heat, leading to reduced performance and safety.
Differences Between Tire Types
Tread Design: Winter tires have aggressive patterns for snow and ice; all-season and all-weather tires are optimized for various conditions.
Rubber Compound: Winter tires use softer rubber for better grip in the cold; all-season and all-weather tires have harder compounds for durability.
Performance: Winter tires excel in extreme winter conditions; all-season tires are versatile, and all-weather tires balance summer and winter capabilities.
Tire Facts & Info
Tire Changes and Temperature: Did you know tire performance can change around -7 degrees? This is why it's essential to switch to winter tires as temperatures drop.
Tire Storage Facility: We offer a tire storage facility to keep your off-season tires safe and in excellent condition.
Understanding Tire Ply: Tire ply refers to the layers of fabric in the tire's construction, affecting durability and performance. Our experts can help you choose the right ply for your needs.
Reading Tire Sizes: Understanding tire sizes is crucial. For example, in P185/75R18:
P185: Tire width in millimeters.
75: Aspect ratio (height/width).
R18: Diameter of the wheel in inches.
Our experts are here to help you choose the best tires for your vehicle, ensuring you drive confidently and safely. Whether you're driving an electric or gas-engine vehicle, always consult our Tire Champions to discover the best tire options for your car, truck, or SUV.