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Are you a driver in the market for replacement tires?

You've probably heard more than once that tires are the only thing between you and the road. That's still true (and this remains a favorite line with tire manufacturers and tire shops for good reason).

The tires you install have a noticeable impact on your vehicle's performance. What that means is that tires impact everything from how your vehicle handles in different road and weather conditions to its fuel economy and noise level. The tread pattern, tread depth, and combination of materials used within the tread itself all define how a tire will interact with the environment, including its anticipated number of miles under the right conditions.

Should I Go with the Tires that Came Installed on My Vehicle?

You can, and there are drivers who like this route. If you're happy with your factory tires, you can ask about have new ones installed. If your tire shop of choice doesn't have those tires in stock or readily available, they may offer alternative options for your make and model.

I'd like to Shop for Tires but I'm Not Sure Where to Start

You're at the right place! At Anderson Tire Pros & Automotive, we know tires from A to Z. That's why we've put together this handy guide to get you started on your search for the best tires for you and your vehicle. 

1. Know Your Tire Type

Before you shop, figure out what type of tire you need.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• All-Season Tires: Great for year-round use, offering a balanced performance in wet and dry conditions.
• Winter Tires: Designed for snowy and icy roads, these tires have deeper treads and softer rubber. 
• Summer Tires: Perfect for warm weather, providing excellent grip on dry and wet roads.
• Performance Tires: If you love speed and precision, these are for you. They offer enhanced handling.
• All-Terrain Tires: Ideal for off-road adventures, with rugged tread patterns for better grip.

2. Size Matters

No, seriously—tire size is something you need to know. Check your vehicle's owner manual or the sidewall of your current tires for size specifications. It usually looks something like this: P215/65R15.

Each part of this code has a meaning. For example:

• Width (215): The width of the tire in millimeters.
• Aspect Ratio (65): The height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width.
• Diameter (15): The diameter of the wheel in inches.

If you're the type of person who likes to research tires online, you'll find that this is a method of search to easily see tires that are available in a size that fits your vehicle. Our tire catalog lets you search by tire size, vehicle type, or brand.

3. Tread Lightly (or Heavily)

Tread patterns affect traction, handling, and noise. Here’s what to consider:

• Symmetrical Treads: Common and versatile, offering a smooth ride.
• Asymmetrical Treads: Great for dry and wet performance, providing better handling.
• Directional Treads: Designed to roll in one direction, enhancing high-speed performance and wet traction.

Tire manufacturers often have webpages dedicated to their popular tire models, where they compare the tire's performance in different areas and give you an idea of what to expect from that tire. The next time you get up close and personal with your tires, take a look at the tread pattern to appreciate the intention behind its design.

4. Consider Your Climate

If you're here in Anderson, California, then you know we're no snowy wonderland. Sun and rain can be in the forecast depending on the month, so all-seasons and summers tend to be popular here, as well as all-terrains and mud-terrains with the off-road crowd. Remember that good or high performance in one area tends to mean there is a sacrifice somewhere else. This might be how long the tire lasts or how it performs in certain conditions.

5. Know What You're Looking for out of Your Next Tires

While you're thinking about different types of tires and climate conditions, also factor in what you want most out of your next set. The perfect tire for you might not be the perfect tire for your neighbor. Here are some of the factors that drive tire purchases:

• Traction
• Wet Performance
• Dry Performance
• Expected Lifespan
• Inclusion of Tread Life Warranty 
• Price and Rebates or Coupons
• Fuel Economy

6. Know the Load Rating and Speed Rating

These ratings tell you what your tires can handle:

Load Rating: Indicates the maximum weight a tire can support.
Speed Rating: Shows the maximum speed a tire can safely achieve.

Match these ratings with your vehicle's specifications for the purposes of safety and performance.

6. Seek Professional Advice

When in doubt, consult a professional; you know, like you'll find at Anderson Tire Pros & Automotive. Tire specialists can provide insights based on your driving habits and local conditions, as well as why something is or isn't recommended for your vehicle.

Start Researching Tires Now & Enjoy the Journey

Depending on how involved you get, you might be going down a tire rabbit hole. Welcome the opportunity, because there's a lot to appreciate about tires that we tend to take for granted. At Anderson Tire Pros & Automotive, we get to work with tires day-in and day-out, and we love assisting our customers with all their tire services and questions. While choosing the right tires might seem daunting at first, you're well-equipped to make an informed decision with this guide.

Remember, the right tires are an asset to safety and make every drive more enjoyable.

Best of luck on your search perfect tires, and don't forget to give us a call when you find them! We are a go-to tire shop serving Anderson, CA and surrounding communities.