Published on : 14 April 20214 min reading time
The various categories of tires
The ETRMA (European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturer’s Association) distinguishes between three groups of tires. These are the “premium” brands, which are the most expensive but ensure a longer life for these vital vehicle components. Then there are the T2 and T3 brands, which are more affordable but of lower quality. However, each manufacturer produces several brands in each of the three categories premium, T2 and T3. Each vehicle is equipped with specific tires that suit the model in question, depending on its use. For example, commercial vehicles need to be well equipped with tires for their frequent stops and heavy loads. Since the tire is the only link between the vehicle and the road, its grip properties are extremely important. The contact surface with the asphalt corresponds to that of an A4 sheet of paper. Most vehicles are equipped with “summer” tires, i.e., with hard rubber.
Maximum security guarantees
The tread of the tire, in contact with the road, must adhere to a dry ground but also to a wet surface. In the first case, the rubber must be able to provide simultaneous grip and acceleration. In the second case, the tread must be able to evacuate water to avoid any risk of aquaplaning. For optimal safety, quality tires make effective braking possible and they absorb any shocks or vibrations on the road. With this type of quality car equipment, the silence is there as well as the fuel savings. The weight of the car is well stabilized as well as the mechanical forces that are exerted during traffic. Driving a little too hard or too nervously can cause premature wear of the tires. Drivers who drive like this are well advised to opt for premium tires, which are more durable. Winding roads with a steep gradient also cause rapid tread wear. On straight roads, the tires do not suffer from such rapid abrasion.
When to change your worn tires?
When these car parts are no longer in good condition, there are risks of accidents. A smooth tire can burst and cause serious damage. Even if it doesn’t come to that, the driver may be fined or have to undergo a more expensive roadworthiness test. It is therefore essential to check the condition of the tread. The tread pattern on the rubber must be 1.6 mm high all over the tire. The brands have provided wear indicators to help drivers assess the condition of their tires. Another concern is tire pressure. If the pressure is not properly adjusted, the rubber will wear out faster. Depending on the season, it is also important to make a wise choice of tires. So-called “summer” models can be used all year round in a region with little or no snow in winter. Otherwise, specific tires are more suitable when the first snow falls. The change should take place before winter for more efficiency. This way, the car gains a better handling on ice or fresh snow.
What is the composition of a tire ?
This car part is made of several elements, in various materials. The profile (or tread) is made of natural and/or synthetic rubber to guarantee maximum grip. On 4×4 vehicles, the profile is made of very soft rubber, which makes it easier to adapt to very difficult road conditions, on non-trackable roads. This is also the quality of winter tires whose elasticity persists even at very low temperatures. The tread patterns are large and hold up well in the snow. The sidewall of the tire includes information such as the brand and dimensions. The bead is used to secure the tire to the rim. It is made of steel beads. The structure itself is the strongest part of the tire and is invisible from the outside. It is made up of different thicknesses of rubber and fibers, including metal. Inside the tire is the inner tube, except in the case of “tubeless” models.