Tire Reviews & Ratings

Angles of the tire and suspension axis relative to each other and the ground: camber, caster, toe. Also, the adjustment of components to bring them into a predetermined position for the most efficient operation of wheel and vehicle for proper even tire wear.

ALPHA-NUMERIC

A load-based tire sizing system containing the load capacity, expressed as a letter (i.e.: A, B, C, etc.) type of tire construction, aspect ratio, and the rim diameter in inches.

ANTIOXIDANT

A chemical, which when added to a rubber compound, prevents surface oxidation; used in tire tread and sidewall compounds to prevent weather checking and cracking.

Under Pressure

According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), only 15% of drivers know how to properly check tire pressure. Why is proper tire inflation important? Under inflated tires cause U.S. drivers to waste 1.2 billion gallons of fuel annually. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, properly inflated tires can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3 percent. They also site that under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.2 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure on all four tires. Properly inflated tires are also safer and last longer, ultimately saving you money!

Check tire pressure regularly

Once per month and before every long trip. Tire pressure should be checked when tires are cold (car has not been driven for at least three hours). The correct tire pressure can be found in the car owner manual, on the gas tank lid, the driver’s side door edge, or on the door post.

Tire pressure must be the same on the tires of each axle, but may be different on the front and rear axle. And remember to tightly close the valve caps to protect the valve from dust and dirt and to prevent leaking. Replace missing valve caps without delay.