Guide to Choosing the Right Car Tyres

Understanding Tyre Basics

A vehicle's performance and safety depend heavily on the choice of its tyres. Tyres support the vehicle’s weight for stable manoeuvrability and control, minimise vibrations from uneven road surfaces, and provide comfort for passengers.

However, finding a set of tyres is far from a one-size-fits-all process due to the wide range of types, sizes, and brands available today. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through all the key factors to consider when selecting the best tyres for your vehicle.

Before delving into the selection process, it’s essential to understand the basics of tyres. A tyre consists of several components, each responsible for providing traction, stability, and safety on the road. These include:

• Tread: This is the outermost layer of the tyre that comes into contact with the road surface and consists of synthetic and natural rubber. Its main functions include providing grip, high mileage, and water expulsion. There are three main types of tread patterns, including Symmetrical, Asymmetrical, and Directional.
• Sidewall: This rubber compound provides structural integrity and protection for the cord plies on the sides of the tyres. It also displays tyre markings and information such as tyre size and speed rating.
• Bead: This is made from strands of steel wire that securely hold the tyre onto the wheel rim for proper placement and stability.
• Body Ply: These are layers of cords, typically made from polyester or rayon, that provide structural support to contain inflation pressure and maintain the tyre’s shape.
• Belt: These are rubber-coated steel or synthetic layers placed between the tread and plies that help provide tyre strength, enhance tread life, and increase puncture resistance.

Factors to Consider in Tyre Selection

For automobile owners, selecting the right tyres for their vehicle requires consideration of several factors to ensure proper grip, handling, and comfort at any road configuration. Here are some key factors:

a. Assess Tyre Size and Specifications

The first step in choosing tyres is understanding their size and specification. You can typically find the tyre size on the sidewall. The tyre marking consists of a series of numbers and letters, such as P205/55R16/84S. Here is a breakdown of what each component means:

• Tyre Type: The first letter "P" indicates the type of tyre, in this case, a passenger car tyre.
• Tyre Width: The first number in the marking indicates the tyre width in millimetres.
• Aspect Ratio: The aspect ratio is the second number in the marking that indicates the height of the tyre’s sidewall as a percentage of its nominal section width.
• Construction Type: The letter "R" implies the type of tyre construction, in this case, a radial construction. Other possible types include diagonal (D) and belted (B) constructions.
• Rim Diameter: The final number in the tyre marking displays the wheel rim diameter in inches.
• Speed Rating: The letter “S” denotes the maximum speed at which a tyre can handle a load under specified conditions, measured in kilometres per hour (kph). The higher the letter, the higher speed it can handle.

b. Decode Tyre Labels and Ratings

Tyre labels and ratings provide information regarding the performance characteristics and safety features of a tyre to help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing automotive tyres. These labels and ratings can be categorised as follows:

The UTQG rating system was developed to help consumers or buyers in comparing and evaluating various tyres. Here are the following factors:

• Treadwear: It indicates the expected tyre lifespan or durability. A higher treadwear rating implies a longer time for the tread to wear down.
• Traction: This measures how effectively a tyre can grip the road under wet conditions. Traction ratings range from AA (highest) to C (lowest).
• Temperature: This indicates how well a tyre can dissipate heat buildup at varying speeds. Like traction ratings, temperature resistance is graded from highest (A) to lowest (C).

The EU tyre labelling system provides drivers with information about tyre safety, performance, and environmental impact to help them decide for their tyre purchases. The label includes three main criteria:

• Fuel Efficiency: This evaluates the tyre's rolling resistance and impact on fuel consumption. The fuel efficiency rating ranges from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
• Wet Grip: This indicates tyre braking performance in damp conditions. Grip ratings range from A being the highest to E being the lowest.
• External Noise: This measures the noise level produced by the tyre while in motion and is measured in decibels (dB) using three sound wave scales.

c. Determine the Vehicle Type

Each type of vehicle has distinct tyre requirements for a stable and efficient riding experience. Consider the following vehicle types and their corresponding tyre needs:

• Passenger Cars and Sedans: Most passenger car and sedan tyres prioritise comfort, low noise, and high fuel efficiency. Choose tyres that provide low rolling resistance.
• SUVs and Crossovers: SUVs and crossovers often need tyres with higher load-carrying capabilities, due their size and seating capacity
• Performance and Sports Cars: Sports cars and performance vehicles demand tyres that can handle power and agility. Look for tyres with high-speed rating and reinforced construction.

d. Consider Driving Style

Before buying tyres for your vehicle, you must first consider your driving style and preference. If you want to prioritise ride quality and comfort, then look for tyres with low road noise and speed ratings. On the other hand, if you are a driver who enjoys a dynamic driving experience, consider high-performance tyres that provide enhanced grip and precise steering.

e. Research Tyre Brands, Models, and Price

With numerous automotive tyre brands and models available on the market, it is essential to do your research and narrow down your options to those that align with your criteria. Look for reviews and ratings from trusted sources to gain insights into the performance, and reliability of different brands and models. Focus on tyres that offer good value for money based on their performance and expected lifespan. Although it may be tempting to opt for the least expensive option, compromising on quality may have serious consequences on your safety and the overall performance of your vehicle.

When to Replace Tyres?

In most cases, a tyre replacement is necessary if there are signs of visible wear or a decline in performance due to mileage, and driving habits. Some common indicators that it’s time to invest in new tyres include:

• Tread Depth: The Singapore Land Transport Authority (LTA) legally requires a minimum tyre tread depth of 1.6mm for all types of vehicles. If the tread depth falls below the limit level (also known as “botak” or bald tyres), the tyre's effectiveness in terms of traction and control may be compromised, especially when traversing in wet conditions.
• Age: Over time, the rubber compounds within the tyres can deteriorate, even if they have not been extensively used, as a result of overexposure to heat, chemicals or other elements. As a guideline, experts recommend replacing tyres every 6 to 10 years, regardless of their remaining tread depth.
• Physical Damage: Tyres must also be replaced if they have sustained physical damage like cuts, tears, bulges, or sidewall damage due to harsh road conditions or encounters with sharp foreign objects on the road. Such damages can weaken the tyre's structure and may lead to an increased risk of blowouts or tread separation.

How to Choose the Right Tyre Shop?

Selecting the right tyre shop is crucial for a hassle-free and satisfactory tyre-buying experience. To determine which tyre service is best for your needs, consider the following factors:

• Tyre Selection: Look for a shop that provides a wide range of top global tyre brands renowned for their quality, performance, and reliability, such as Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, and Michelin, among others. The availability of diverse tyre options will help you compare different brands, size variations, tread patterns, and price ranges.
• Tyre Installation Services: Another aspect to consider is whether the shop provides up-to-the-mark tyre services such as tyre installation, wheel alignment, balancing, rim repairs, check-up, nitrogen filling, and customization services. Having these services in one place not only saves you time but also maintains optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your tyres.
• Professional Mechanics: A significant advantage of consulting a trusted tyre shop is having a team of knowledgeable and experienced mechanics who can render expert advice and guidance for your tyre purchase. They can address your concerns, recommend suitable tyre replacements based on your driving needs, and provide valuable insights into tyre maintenance and care.
• Warranty and Return Policy: Ensure that the tyre shop offers warranty coverage and a return policy on their products for protection against manufacturing defects or premature wear.

Choosing the appropriate set of tyres is a critical aspect of vehicle ownership, as it has a significant impact on performance, safety, and efficiency.

AL Tyres is a trusted provider of high-quality tyres for every vehicle in Singapore. Whether you need all-season, performance, or off-road tyres, AL Tyres has you covered. Our team of tyre professionals offers reliable products, customer service, and unmatched expertise to help you find the perfect tyre set that matches your vehicle and driving needs. Don’t compromise on the quality of your tyres. Contact us today.