Yes, it’s true—just like almost any product on today’s market, tires come with many different brand names to choose from. In fact, there are over 2,000 different types of tires, including various lines within each brand. Below are some of the more well-known tire brands to consider:
One of the most famous and recognizable tire brands is Goodyear. These high-quality tires are found worldwide, from your neighbor’s car to the race track. However, what you may not be aware of is that major tire brands like Goodyear also manufacture “second-class” tires under different brand names. For example, Goodyear produces Motomaster tires, which are made using the same machines as Goodyear tires. The main difference is that Motomaster tires may not undergo the same level of quality control, meaning there might be small imperfections, such as loose rubber that wasn’t trimmed. Essentially, you’re getting the same type of Goodyear quality, but at a cheaper price and with fewer quality checks. Many other top brands have similar systems, so it’s worth exploring these options, as they can save you money while still offering a reliable tire.
Historically, Michelin tires were considered the “top tire” in the market, with Bridgestone and other similar brands following closely behind. These premium tires were often found on high-end vehicles. However, brands like B.F. Goodrich, Firestone, and Goodyear have all started developing higher-end options, making the tire market very competitive. Today, almost all major brands are producing tires for all types of vehicles and conditions.
When Should I Replace My Tires?
To help drivers determine when it’s time to replace their tires, all tires sold in North America are required to have a molded indicator called a wear bar across their tread pattern. These wear bars visually indicate when your tires are nearing or have reached the minimum tread depth. However, as the tread wears down, it’s important to note that while dry traction and handling may improve, the tire’s performance in wet conditions (rain and snow) will decrease, as the tread is crucial for these conditions.
If your tire’s tread depth reaches the minimum legal size, its resistance to hydroplaning is significantly reduced, and its ability to provide traction in snow is almost gone. So, if you anticipate driving in these conditions, it’s best not to wait until the treads are completely worn down. Replacing your tires before they reach their limit can save you time, and potentially your life, by ensuring you have fresh tires with optimal traction for rain and snow.
In addition to checking the tread indicator, there are a few other ways to keep track of when your tires need replacing.
A great method for staying on top of tire replacement is to be aware of your tire’s road warranty. For example, many tires come with a road warranty of 100,000 kilometers. When you buy new tires, take note of your odometer reading. Once you’re nearing 95,000 kilometers, it’s time to start researching the tires you want and look for sales. Keep in mind that different tires come with varying warranty lengths, so always check the specifics for your tires. You don’t want to be under the impression that a tire lasts 100,000 kilometers when it’s actually rated for only 85,000.
Proper tire inflation is also key to helping your tires reach their maximum lifespan. Check your tire pressure regularly, as tires in different positions on your car may deflate at different rates. An air gauge is a cheap tool that can help you monitor this. Most gas stations offer free air or for a small fee, you can use their air pump to fill your tires to the correct pressure. Additionally, rotating your tires regularly helps extend their life.
You may be wondering, “What kind of deals are available when it’s time to replace my tires?”
Almost every place that sells tires offers deals. The key is to shop around for the tires you want. If you’re patient and explore different suppliers, you’ll likely find a great deal. Common promotions include offers like “Buy 1 Tire, Get the 2nd Half Price,” which is a standard sale found across many stores and brands. Another common deal is “Buy 3, Get the 4th Tire Free.” There are also clearance sales when stores need to make room for new inventory, so always keep an eye out for discounts.
One often overlooked benefit when purchasing tires is the “Tire Perks” that come with them. For example, Canadian Tire offers free tire rotations, free tire repairs, and free valve stem replacements on their tires (as long as it has been 10,000 kilometers since purchase). Many other retailers offer similar perks, which can save you time, money, and frustration. If a salesperson doesn’t mention these benefits to you, be sure to ask about them!
Cool Things You Can Do with Tires
Recently, people have been getting creative with their tires. If you’ve ever seen shows like “Pimp My Ride” or “Cribs,” you’ve probably seen cars with outlandish tire setups, such as tires stretched over 22-inch rims or extra-wide tires designed for better handling. There are even tires with larger treads for off-roading or racing. No matter what your tire needs or “wants” are—whether it’s raised lettering to match new rims or specialty off-road tires—there is a tire out there for every need and desire.
Tire News
In February 2004, the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a tire rating system to help consumers make informed decisions when replacing their tires.
You can find these tire ratings on their website at: NHTSA Tire Ratings
The NHTSA rating system evaluates tires in three categories:
- Temperature: Rated from A (highest) to C (lowest). A C rating represents the minimum performance standard required by federal regulations.
- Traction: Rated from AA (highest) to C (lowest). A higher grade indicates better performance in wet conditions, such as shorter stopping distances.
- Tread-wear: Tires are assigned a number grade, with a control tire given a rating of 100. A tire rated 400 would last four times as long as the control tire. The best tires often receive ratings of 700.
When shopping for new tires, keep these ratings in mind to ensure you choose the best option for your needs.
