How to Choose the Right Winter Tyres for Your Car?
provideRiepas.lv offers a wide range of winter tyres suitable even for the most demanding car owners. Read on to learn what criteria to consider when choosing the most suitable winter tyres for your car.
Do not leave buying tyres until the last minute
, from 1 Research and purchase your tyres well in advance to avoid making a rushed, uncertain purchase.
Driving routes
— in the city or on motorways, as this will determine which tyres you need. Drivers who travel on motorways more frequently are advised to buy the highest-quality tyres to ensure maximum safety on the road. The same applies to owners of compact cars, as these vehicles are more likely to skid on the road.
Tyre size
— this is one of the first questions you will be asked in the shop. Bear in mind that winter and summer tyres must be the same size. The tyre size can be found on the sidewall of the tyre.
Type of tyre
· Soft-compound, or Scandinavian-type winter tyres are suitable for more severe road conditions- ice and a thick layer of snow.
· are recommended when driving in winter on roads with pronounced uneven terrain. They are useful for drivers who lack experience on the road. When choosing studded tyres, it is important to remember that in Latvia they may be used only from 1. October to 1. May.
- All four tyres should preferably be from the same brand
Installing tyres from different brands on a car is not recommended. It may affect driving and your ability to control the car, as well as cause premature wear of certain components. This is especially important for all-wheel-drive cars because, if the tyres are not identical, additional stress is placed on the car’s transfer case and differential.
- Winter tyres recommended by professionals
The range of winter tyres is quite extensive, so choosing between brands can be difficult. You can rely on professionals’ opinions, as tyre evaluations take into account criteria such as grip, braking performance, ride quality and driving dynamics. Here are some winter tyres recommended by professionals:
- Continental VikingContact 7
- Michelin X-ICE Snow
- Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 SUV
- Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
Tips to keep your car’s winter tyres in good working order:
● Winter tyres are not recommended for use all year round because the finely engineered tread design will wear out more quickly and reduce the tyres’ traction, while in summer conditions the tyre compound will lose its consistency.
● Winter tyres should be replaced every 4 - 6 years, as there is a risk that the rubber compound will harden, damaging the tyres’ grip and thereby reducing the possibility of driving safely on them.
● After the season ends, be sure to store the tyres properly: in airtight packaging, in a dry, cool place. Proper storage between seasons ensures that they will also be in good technical condition the following season.
