Category: Tyres

Know How to Read Tyre Code and choose the Right Car Tyres

car tyres

Tyre tread erosion is perhaps the most common issues which car owners face. Constant erosion creates a need for routine tyre replacements. But do you know that there are many things you need to consider before replacing your car’s old tyres?

For starters, you need to know the suitable set of tyres as per specifications apart from the different types of tyres according to their use. These are also known as tyre code or sidewall markings.

A standard format in which this codes or markings are written is ‘225/55 R 17 97 W’. Consider this just as an example. For your ease, let’s formulate it as ‘X/Y R D L S’. Read along to know what each of these values signifies and how they are essential for your selection.

Everything You Need to Know About Tyre Codes:

  1. X/Y
    Here X denotes the tyre width. Tyre width is the measurement from one sidewall to the other. Most often it will be a three digit number, and it represents the width in millimeters. Tyres meant for off-roading conditions will require wider treads for maximum traction. So, when buying 4×4 Tyres in Coventry or anywhere else in the UK, it is always better to check if they are of appropriate width.
    Y represents the ‘Aspect Ratio.’ This is the ratio of the height of a tyre to its width. For example, an aspect ratio of 55 means the tyre height is equal to 55% of its width. Higher aspect ratio denotes means sidewall. Now, why is this important? It’s because the aspect ratio affects steering stability. Shorter sidewalls mean less time for the steering input to reach the tyre tread. It can be both a good or bad thing. Shorter sidewalls also mean more unexpected shocks and bumps on your vehicle’s body.
  1. R
    In modern times this value does not have much significance, as almost all tyres are of Radial ply construction.
  1. D
    This value indicates the nominal diameter of a wheel rim. It is the measurement of the wheel from one point in its circumference to its opposite end. This value tells you the size of the wheel the tire is intended to fit. For example, a tyre code like 215/65 R 15 means the tyre will fit perfectly in a wheel of 15-inch diameter. This value should match your manufacturer specifications under any circumstance. It is advisable to measure your wheel before buying a tyre.
  1. L
    The number in this fragment is the load index. Load index number is a numerical code, and it stipulates the maximum load each tyre can carry. For example, a load rating of 97 means a tyre can carry a maximum weight of 730 Kg. You should fit tyres of appropriate load index as per your manufacturer recommendation. However, you can fit a tyre of a higher load index than OEM recommendations if you know you’ll have to load your car more.
  1. S
    This alphabet is also a code, which denotes the maximum speed the tyre can endure. For example, a speed rating of W indicates the tyre can withstand speeds of up to 230 miles per hour.
    With this knowledge, you will be able to select the perfect tyre that fits your purpose. However, you can consult expert technicians to ease things out. For expert advice and the best Tyres in Coventry, visit Central Point MOT. They are famous for stocking the best range of tyres from well-known brands of the world.

For more information please visit here:- MOT in Coventry

5 Ways to Store Your Car Tyres in Proper Condition

car tyres

In numerous parts of the UK, it is quite common to have two sets of tyres to cope with the weather throughout the year. Certain tyres provide better performance as per the weather and tarmac conditions.

But do you know the appropriate way to store them once they are off as the season changes? Let’s have look at how to store various seasonal Tyres Coventry.

  • Proper Cleaning Routine

Dirt and other numerous contaminants can worsen the condition of your wheels when in storage. So, before putting them away, it is advisable to clean the wheels with a small amount of detergent. Wash them and dry them completely before you store them away for the next season.

Tyres are factory-made from synthetic and natural rubbers, so they tend to dry out when kept in storage. This causes cracks and dry rot, which will force you to purchase a new pair.

Hence, it is recommended that you wash your tyres with foam or liquid tyre cleaners and thoroughly wipe it. After that, you should ensure to apply a silicone spray such as a tyre dressing on the rubber. This spray will eventually be soaked up the rubber keeping the rubber compound soft throughout the seasons.

  • Checking The Air Pressure:

It is best if you store your tyres with the right inflation pressure. Under inflated tyres can get flat spots if kept on a hard surface. Later on, these flat spots can become annoying thumps once used on roads again. Generally, it is a temporary issue, but if tyres are kept properly inflated, it will help in maintaining their structure and composite quality.

  • Visual Inspection

Make sure you check the treads, sidewall, etc. of your tyres to look for any uneven wear and damage. If there are any damages to the tyres, you can opt for requisite tyre services at professional auto garages such as Central Point MOT. They provide complete year-round support and services for MOT tests in and around Coventry.

  • Mark Your Tyres

You should always make sure to tag each of the tyres to help you remember in which position the tyres were on the car. You can mark the left front tyre as LF and the right rear as RR and so on. This is to ensure that put the right tyres onto the right places even if you are rotating the set.

  • Store Them Upright

It is advisable that you do not store your Summer Tyres Coventry or any other tyre lying down on the floor. If you do so, it may result in flat spots which can be a nuisance later on. It is best to place a plywood piece on the floor first and then stand them upright one beside the other. Make sure each tyre has enough breathing space.

Storing your tyres properly will help you preserve them in proper conditions. That’s important considering you do plan to use them later on. The right storing methods can help you avoid buying a new pair or set. Store your tyres the right way today and make the best of them tomorrow!

For more information please visit here:- MOT Coventry