Chapter 5
Tires
Most people take their tires for granted. We don’t give them a second thought.
Often, the only time we notice our tires is when they go flat, blow out, or when
they have to be replaced because they’re worn out. Yet choosing the right tires
for your car, your driving habits, and your geographic location will give you a
safer, more effective driving experience as well as save you money.
How do you select the tires that best suit your needs? Should you buy all-
season tires, truck tires, or highway tread? What characterizes an all-season tire?
What does it mean to “up-size” your tires? How many snow tires should you use
on a four-wheel-drive vehicle? A two-wheel-drive vehicle? What can you do to
get the maximum life out of your tires? Tire knowledge pays off, so let’s get a
little under our belts.