How to Buy the Right Tires For Your Car

New Tires - Sierra Blanca Motors

Although intimidating to some, knowing how to buy the right tires for your car needn’t be a headache. In fact, at Sierra Blanca Motors, it’s our specialty! We’re here to help make the tire buying process simple with our full-service tire shop in Ruidoso, NM. 

When you choose Sierra Blanca Motors for your new tires, a member of our team will walk you through the entire process so you’ll never have to worry about picking the right tires for your vehicle. However, we still believe everyone should know the basics, like types of tires, how to find your tire size, when to buy new tires, and where to buy new tires.

Choosing the Right Type of Tire

Before you think about tire repair or replacement in Ruidoso, NM, consider which variety makes the best fit for you. 

Here’s a snapshot of tires by category:

  • All-Season Tires deliver a rounded performance without excelling in specific areas, so it works effectively year-round. It is designed for a smooth, quiet, and economical ride. You can expect snow in Ruidoso, NM, though, and all-season tires might let you down in extreme conditions. 
  • All-Terrain Tires are ideal for a truck or Jeep that takes you off-road. All-terrain tires serve you well, even on rocky or sandy ground. You’ll also benefit from a more rugged aesthetic.
  • Mud-Terrain Tires are ideal for when you put your 4x4 through its paces on soft and muddy terrain. It gives maximum traction thanks to the depth of tread.
  • Performance Tires are for speed and performance. Consider specialized performance tires next time you’re looking for new Chevy tires. The shallower tread pattern means you’ll achieve the added performance at the expense of lifespan, though.
  • Touring Tires are an all-season option capable of handling long distances. Touring tires work well in wet or dry conditions but may struggle in the snow.

Winter or Snow Tires are best for when the mercury falls in Ruidoso. Consider dedicated winter or snow tires for special rubber that delivers outstanding traction. It will keep you safe all year. Don’t overlook keeping a spare in the trunk.

How to Find Your Tire Size

When you need to determine the optimal size of your new tire purchase, check the owner’s manual for advice and guidelines.

It isn’t always obvious, but look for an alphanumeric string indicating various metrics including:

  • Width
  • Diameter
  • The load index (how much weight each tire can support)
  • Speed rating

If you’re not comfortable sizing your tires without expert guidance, head down to Sierra Blanca Motors in Ruidoso, NM, and let us do the hard work for you.

When to Buy New Tires

Always have your tires look at if you suspect an issue, otherwise, tires should be inspected by an expert annually after five years of use. You should replace tires every ten years, even if it appears in sound condition. You may need new tires sooner if:

  • Tread depth falls below 1/16 inch. Use a gauge or penny to check the tread. Insert the coin into the tread and, if the entire head remains visible, your tires are fine.
  • Sidewalls are cracked. If you notice grooves or cuts on the sidewalls of your tires, seek replacements immediately. 
  • Bulges or Blisters on the outer surface of tires are also safety hazards for a potential blowout.
  • Excessive Vibration is often due to worn tires and should be looked at immediately.

Best Place to Buy Tires in Ruidoso, NM

Where is the best place to buy tires in Ruidoso, NM? The tire center at Sierra Blanca Motors!  Whether you’re looking for Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM tires or Chevy tires, our friendly team of tire specialists has you covered. 

Have questions about buying new tires? We’re happy to help. Contact us directly at 800.626.6867 or visit our tire repair and service center in Ruidoso, NM today. At Sierra Blanca Motors, we make it simple!