What tyres do I need?

We want your tyre shopping experience to be as simple as possible, in order to use tyremen you need to be aware of the following things:

Tyre Size

When changing tyres please ensure that they are the same as the vehicles original equipment tyre size. If you have had the vehicle from new and know that the tyres have not been changed then the easiest way to find this is to copy down the tyre size that is embossed on the side of your current tyres, it will look something like this: 205/55R16 (91V).

You can then put this info into the ‘find your tyres’ search box on our home page, we’ll then show you a number of suitable options.

Please be wary that if you haven’t had the vehicle from new a previous owner may have changed the tyre size so it might be worth checking that the size on the vehicle now is the same as what is listed in your service book. Also some vehicles, including many BMW’s & Mercedes have different sizes of tyres on the front to the back so please check both if you are looking to replace a full set.

Climate

Most tyres sold in the UK are officially classed as summer tyres by the manufacturers, but it is common place to use these year round on your vehicle. Within standard summer tyres some products are more suited to different conditions, for example Uniroyal gear their products towards really good performance in the rain. For details on the varying tyres that we supply please have a look at their associated product descriptions.

In addition to standard tyres the manufacturers also make specific winter tyres for those colder winter months, these tyres are becoming increasing popular due to the vastly improved safety and winter driving performance they provide.

Also between the 2 is all-season tyres which are somewhere in the middle, they offer better winter time performance than a regular summer tyre, but not as much as a winter tyre. They offer the benefit of not having to change your tyres from summer to winter and are a good option for drivers that often drive in challenging climates.

If you need any advice on this we are only a phone call away and are happy to advise!

Usage

Because your tyres are your only link between your vehicle and the road, they play a key role in road handling, comfort, braking distance and fuel saving. Different usage conditions require different tyre characteristics.

In the city

Because you need to be doubly alert in urban and city areas we suggest the following selection criteria:

  • Braking distance. Use tyres with the optimum braking distance, on both dry and wet roads.
  • Longevity. City driving with its numerous stops and starts puts great demands on the tyre. Choose tyres with increased longevity.
  • Fuel economy. Tyres with low rolling resistance save fuel.

On main roads or motorways

Tyres play a key role in your vehicle’s handling.

Tyre selection criteria:

  • Braking distance at high speed. For maximum safety, select tyres that provide optimum braking distance on both dry and wet roads.
  • Comfort. For long trips, choose tyres that offer comfort both in terms of vibration and noise level.
  • Road holding. Select tyres that provide excellent grip and stability.

Sports car

If you enjoy driving in a sporty manner, your tyres should have the necessary characteristics to assist you.

Tyre selection criteria:

  • Grip. Look for a tyre with excellent performance on both dry and wet roads.
  • Road holding. Choose tyres from our premium tyre ranges for products that provide excellent steering precision and good stability in bends.