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When do you need to Replace Tires?

Tires are typically replaced when their natural lifespan has come to an end. There are however any number of factors that can affect this including storage, temperature, surfaces they are driven on, how aggressive of a driver you are, punctures, etc.

The usual recommendation for replacing tires is when they no longer feel safe to the driver. You can see when they are worn out using the tread wear indicator. A typical set of tires under normal driving conditions will last approximately 40 000 miles or 64 000 km. Some tires of-course are designed for much longer, even up to 80 000 miles or 128 000 kilometers.

What is the difference between Alloy & Steel wheels?

The main differences between alloy and steel wheels lie in their durability and strength. Most high-performance wheels are made of an alloy and composed of aluminum, and other metallic substances. By using alloy wheels, you not only improve the looks of your vehicle but also the performance. The extra strength provides longevity as well as effecting tire wear in a positive manner. The weight reduction will improve steering response and handling, as well as help accelerate and brake faster.

Tire rotation is an important part of vehicle maintenance. Rotating your high performance tires every 3,000 to 5,000 miles as recommended can provide performance advantages, even out tire wear and preserve balanced handling and traction of the tires.  The purpose of tire rotation is to achieve a more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. If your tires show uneven or irregular wear, ask a Tops Tire service specialist to check for and correct your problem.

Noise and Vibration Problems

Below are the most common (but not the only) causes of noise and vibration problems:

•  a poorly seated tire on the rim

•  tire / wheel assembly out of balance

•  irregular tire wear

•  an out of round rim

•  an out of round tire

If there is a problem with your tires and the way they have been installed they will most likely begin to shake and vibrate your vehicle at between 50 and 65 mph.

How do I take proper care of my wheels?

It is important to keep your wheels clean at all times. Your brakes will cause the wheels to heat up, and this heat in turn can cause any dirt or brake dust to cook in to the clear coat. If this happens, there's not a lot you can do besides having the wheels refinished. Protect your investment and keep your wheels clean!

Below are some simple instructions on how take care of your wheels:

• Do not use household cleaners or other detergents to clean your wheels. The best wheel cleaning solution is a mild soap and water solution (what ever you would trust on the paint of your car).   Clean with a soft, un-abrasive cloth. Only on polished wheels can you use aluminum wheel polish. If you use this polish on chrome, painted, or clear coated wheels, you will only scratch the finish.
• Do not use steam cleaners in automatic car washes.
• Do not use any tire cleaners on your wheels.
• Clean wheels when they are cool. Heat can effect the soap, causing it to dry on the wheel and become difficult to rinse off.
• Clean one wheel at a time. This also prevents the soap from drying on to the wheel.
•  After the wheels are clean and dry, apply a coat of soft paste style wax to them. This will create a moisture barrier and help ensure the finish lasts as long as possible.

We have defined some tire terms below to help you stay informed and make the best assessment of your vehicle's tire needs. 

Aspect Ratio = (Section Height / Section Width) x 100

Deflection = Free radius minus loaded radius.

Free Radius = The radius of the tire/wheel assembly that is not deflected under load.

Loaded Radius = Distance from wheel axis of rotation to supporting surface at a given load and stated inflation pressure.

Loaded Section Height = The loaded radius minus half of the nominal rim diameter. Distance from rim seat to outer tread surface of a loaded tire.

Nominal Rim Diameter = Diameter of rim seat supporting the tire bead. Examples: 13", 15" and 16.5"

Overall Diameter = The diameter of the inflated tire without any load.

Overall Width = Maximum width in cross-section of unloaded tire including protruding side ribs and decorations.

Revolutions per Mile = Measured number of revolutions for a tire traveling one mile. This can vary with load and inflation.

Rim Width = Linear distance between rim flanges in contact with the tire.

Rolling Circumference = The linear distance traveled by a tire in one revolution. This can vary with load and inflation. Rolling circumference can be calculated as follows: 63,360 divided by revolutions per mile = rolling circumference in inches.

Section Height = Distance from rim seat to outer tread surface of unloaded tire.

Section Width = Linear distance between the outside sidewalls of an inflated tire without any load (exclusive of protruding side ribs and decorations).

Tread Width = The portion of the tread design which comes in contact with the road.