Tires are a big purchase, and one of the least researched items that people buy. Perhaps it’s due to a plethora of confusing industry speak or perhaps the industry has done little to convince consumers of the advancements that have been made over the years, but typical consumers choose based on the recommendations of the local tire shop or price alone.
If you’re reading this, you are among the few who have an interest in selecting the right winter tires for your vehicle. Surprisingly, there is little cost difference between the cheapest tire a shop can offer you and a high-quality tire ordered online. The only difference is a little know-how.
When purchasing tires online, it’s important to note that unless you buy a set of tires and rims, you’ll still need a shop to install the tires once they arrive. This reason alone is enough for many to select a rim & tire package, however there is also the added benefit of being able to select a cheaper rim set for the abuse that winter driving brings (salted roads, gravel, sliding into curbs etc) and protect your nice summer rims so they can look their best when the snow melts.
One of the primary benefits of online shopping is reviews from other customers who have used the tire in the past and can report on it objectively. In the link below there is one of the top resources for tire surveys, with over two billion (yes, billion) miles driven on a variety of tires. If you’re looking for information on top tires and what’s the current year favorite, that link should answer your questions.
Winter tires have made large strides over the past few years and are now able to compete and in some cases excel beyond studded tires, even on icy conditions. The compounds used remain elastic in cold temperatures and provide siping to remove moisture from beneath your car so you aren’t surprised in partial wet (slushy) conditions.
For more information on winter tire reviews and winter car care visit TheSecretMechanic.com