Great Tips for Buying Tires
Most car owners do not do their homework before they visit a truck tire shop. So if you are among them, get smart and follow these tips to make the most of your money, not to mention tires.
Get the correct size.
A tire’s size should be stamped on its sidewalls in a sequence like P265/70R16. Replacement tires must always match what’s noted in your owner’s manual or on the door jamb, not necessarily what’s currently on your truck.
Age matters, even with “new” tires.
Tires naturally deteriorate in time and faster in hot climates. A tire’s “birthday” is a four-digit number following a letter sequence beginning with DOT. It indicates the week and year of manufacture. For example, 5009 means the 50th week of 2009.
Vehicle manufacturers advise consumers to replace tires after six years, no matter what their condition. And, because some shops do sell old tires, check the age code to be sure you are not being sold ones that are already several years old and on their way to needing replacement.
Learn the lingo.
“All-season” tires are a popular and a wise choice for most truck drivers. However, think those called “high-performance” or “ultra high-performance” are better, then think again. Tire performance is the ability to handle well at higher speeds, not the lifespan. So any tire with “high-performance” tagged to it will wear out faster.
Think twice about the warranty.
Manufacturers will frequently tout mileage warranties, usually between 50,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on the model of the tire. In truth, drivers will never get that kind of mileage from their tires. And the heavier the vehicle is, the less you should expect from your tires no matter how well you drive.
If you are looking for a reputable truck tire shop in or around the San Marcos, TX area, please call GXC Service LLC today at this number (512) 955-1099 for an appointment.