When purchasing new tires there are a few things to consider before you get rolling; here are some brief essentials you need to consider before going to your wallet.

Are they going to be for winter driving because of regional climate, or all season tires will suffice? If you live in a region where there is heavy snow during the winter season and they are for winter, your best bet is to go with winter tires. Even though all season are made to tread through light snow, winter tires are specifically designed to get a grip on snow and ice and will give you a much better peace of mind in heavy snow fall regions. If you are stringent with your spending, consider comparing budget winter tires on online stores that can provide you a better deal than your local tire shop. All seasons would be your best choice if your regional area has very light snow in your winter seasons, and it will also save you money on having to spend on a second set of specific season tires. For even wear on your tires, make sure to rotate your all seasons (if it’s your only set of tires) at least twice a year and quarterly if you do extremely excessive driving. Again, online discount tire stores are a great source for saving on tire purchases.

Once you have decided what seasonal rubbers you are going to buy, knowing the size will be helpful if you were to buy them online. Branded on the side wall of every tire, there are information pertaining to their sizes. The three important factors are the section width, sidewall aspect ratio, and the tire and wheel diameter. There are other indicators that describe the type of tire and can be fully explained at the tire size guide link at the bottom of this article.

Here is an example of a tire size that may be branded on the side wall of the tire:

P225/50R16 91S

The “P” indicates the tire is a “P-metric” size that was designed to be fitted on vehicles that are primarily used as passenger vehicles. The “225” following the letter is the tire’s “Section Width” (cross section) in millimetres. Typically following the three digits identifying the tire’s Section Width in millimetres is a two-digit number that identifies the tire’s profile or aspect ratio. The “50” indicates that this tire size’s sidewall height (from rim to tread) is 50% of its section width. The “16” indicates the tire and wheel diameter designed to be matched together. Tires that have a rim diameter expressed in inches (P225/50R16, as well as 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 26 and 28) are called “inch rim” sizes, and are the most popular type of tire size and are used on most cars, minivans, vans, sport utility vehicles and light duty trucks.

Tires and wheels with unique rim diameters should never be combined with traditional “inch rim” tires and wheels. It is critical that the tire and wheel diameters are always confirmed to match before the tire is mounted on the wheel. Also refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended size and type.
Installation is the final step for your purchase. If you were to purchase them online, most online stores would recommend a list of local installation shops for your new set of rubbers and will also give you the option to deliver to them directly, while giving you the options to set appointments. Also note that when installing new tires, you don’t necessarily need a wheel alignment.
After buying and installing your new rubbers, to have them last a good while, make sure to rotate them periodically and check your tire’s air pressure are inflated to the recommended tire’s pressure, which is located on the tire’s side wall.