What To Look For When Buying Tires For A Car Apr 2026

Never buy "new" tires that are more than 2 years old. Replace any tires on your car once they hit 6–10 years of age. 💰 Beyond the Sticker Price

They lose grip in extreme cold (below 45°F/7°C) or heavy snow. Summer / Performance Tires: Softer rubber for maximum grip and cornering. Optimized for high-speed stability and braking.

Rated A, B, or C. This measures heat resistance at high speeds. A is the highest rating. 📅 Check the "Born On" Date what to look for when buying tires for a car

Example: 3223 means the tire was made in the .

A code like 91V . Never install a tire with a lower rating than what the manufacturer recommends. 🌦 Choose the Right Category Never buy "new" tires that are more than 2 years old

Ideal for people who get occasional snow but don't want to swap tires twice a year. 🔍 The "Big Three" UTQG Ratings

Look for these Department of Transportation (DOT) ratings printed on the sticker or sidewall: Summer / Performance Tires: Softer rubber for maximum

The two-digit number (e.g., 45 ) is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. Construction: Usually R for Radial. Wheel Diameter: The size of the rim in inches (e.g., 18 ).