Why tire dimensions play a role in the performance of your car

205/55R16 all-season tires

There are many reasons why tire dimensions play a role in the performance of the car, and therefore it is essential when replacing tires to keep the dimensions that initially came on the vehicle. Handling, acceleration, grip, and even gas mileage is all affected by the size of the tires. You should be aware that wrong size tires can even jeopardize the odometer, transmission, ABS braking, and gas mileage as larger tires than the recommended size will increase the rolling resistance.  This is because larger than recommended tires can reduce the car’s effective gear ratio as the larger tires rotate slower to cover the same amount of road, which can cause strain on the transmission. Wider tires can also increase the risk of hydroplaning.

Tires dimensions are marked on the car’s sidewall and of course, also noted in the car manual.  A tire dimension of 205/55R16 tells you that the tire has a width of 205 millimeters, with 55 being the aspect ratio, R standing for the construction type, which in this case are radial tires. Other markings on the sidewall are the DOT symbol, load index, tire type, tire identification number, and the Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG).

When shopping for tires to replace your tires, it might be easiest to replace them with the same type of tires already on the car or SUV.

If replacing tires because they are worn out, you might be best off replacing them with the same kind of tires; however, if you are changing tires from, say 205/55R16 all-season tires to 205/55R16 winter tires you need to shop around for snow and winter tires. Winter tires are available both as non-studded and studded tires, so you need to investigate what kind of tires you need to in the area where you live. If living in a place where winter has lots of hard-packed snow and ice, you might want to consider studded tires. If mild winters, then non-studded tires would suffice. All-weather tires are well suited for winter weather as they also hold the “Three Peak Mountain Snowflake” emblem.

You can enjoy the lowest rolling resistance possible for whatever types of tires you choose when respecting the correct tire dimensions. This will allow you to save as much as 6 percent on your fuel costs. In addition, this will reduce emissions which will help the environment. No matter which tires you end up choosing, companies like Nokian Tyres have reduced their rolling resistance in their whole lineup of cars, so when buying the correct dimensions Nokian tires, you can be sure that you will have the lowest rolling resistance possible.

With the tire dimensions respected, you will get the most out of your car or SUV. The best handling, traction, and gas mileage are just some of the benefits. With the correct dimensions, the rolling resistance will be at its lowest and allow for lower emissions, thereby a more environmentally friendly ride.

For more information regarding right size tires, visit: https://www.nokiantires.com/

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