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Best All Season Tires in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Our top pick is the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS, a 19-inch ultra-high-performance tire that suits both cars and SUVs for a balance of grip and comfort. We compared 15 all-season tires from a pool of 499 based on published specifications such as rim size, size designation, speed class, load capacity, and tread type. None of these tires have been road-tested by us, and prices are live from the store listing.

15 picks from 441 tires that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.

Quick picks

#PickTirePrice
1Best overallContinental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season 255/35ZR19 96Y XL

$217.02 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)

2Best touring tireMICHELIN Defender2 All-Season Tire for Cars

$243.99 price as of 2026-10-05 06:00 UTC (Details)

3Best for SUVs and crossoversPirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 All Season 255/50R19 107V XL

$297.94 price as of 2026-10-05 06:09 UTC (Details)

4Best for sporty compactsYokohama ADVAN SPORT AS+ 205/55R16 91W SL ALL-SEASON ULTRA-HIGH
5Best for daily commutingKumho Solus TA11 All-Season Tire

$127.58 price as of 2026-10-05 05:55 UTC (Details)

6Best 17-inch all-rounderGoodyear Assurance Finesse All-Season 225/65R17 SL 102 H Tire

$105.00 price as of 2026-10-05 05:46 UTC (Details)

7Best for larger SUVsCooper Endeavor Plus All-Season 245/55R19XL 107H Tire

$206.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)

8Best performance 17-inchHankook Ventus V2 concept 2 All-Season Radial Tire

$114.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:48 UTC (Details)

9Best for sporty sedansFalken Ziex ZE950 All-Season Radial Tire

$100.97 price as of 2026-10-05 05:41 UTC (Details)

10Best under $100Ironman iMove Gen 3 A/S UHP All Season 205/55R16 91V Passenger Tire

$53.97 price as of 2026-10-05 05:52 UTC (Details)

11Best for 15-inch wheelsStarfire Solarus AS All-Season 235/75R15 105T Tire
12Best for value in 17-inchMilestar MS932 Sport 225/55R17 101V All Season XL 17 inch Tire

$101.08 price as of 2026-10-05 06:01 UTC (Details)

13Best for compact carsSailun Atrezzo SH408 All Season 215/55R17 94V Passenger Tire

$70.98 price as of 2026-10-05 06:13 UTC (Details)

14Best for 16-inch performanceGeneral Tire G-Max AS-07 UHP All Season 205/50ZR16 87W Passenger Tire

$142.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:45 UTC (Details)

15Best for mid-size sedansSumi HTR A/S P03 235/65R17 108V XL

The best fit for you

  • For daily commuters: You need a reliable all-season tire that handles wet roads and highway miles without fuss. The Kumho Solus TA11 offers a 17-inch fit and a solid touring compound. See pick 5
  • For sporty drivers: You want a tire with sporty handling. The Yokohama ADVAN Sport AS+ is an ultra-high-performance tire in a 16-inch size, designed for enthusiastic driving. See pick 4
  • For SUV and crossover owners: You need a tire that fits larger wheels and supports the weight of a utility vehicle. The Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 is built for 19-inch SUV fitments. See pick 3
  • For budget-conscious shoppers: You want dependable all-season performance without spending a lot. The Ironman iMove Gen 3 provides a 205/55R16 fit at a modest price point. See pick 10

Our 15 picks

1 Best overall

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season 255/35ZR19 96Y XL

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season 255/35ZR19 96Y XL

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
19 in

$217.02 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Continental DWS06 PLUS is the only pick here that combines a 19-inch rim with an ultra-high-performance designation. Its all-season tread and car/SUV fitment make it a versatile choice for large-wheel sedans and crossovers.

Pros

  • 19-inch rim diameter, the largest among the performance picks
  • Suitable for both cars and SUVs
  • All-season tread for year-round use

Cons

  • Tire size not stated by the seller
  • Only one wheel size offered in this listing

Good fit if

  • Drivers with 19-inch wheels looking for a responsive all-season tire
  • Owners of sport sedans or performance crossovers

Skip if

  • You need a specific tire size that is not listed
  • You drive a compact car with 16-inch wheels

Verdict: The Continental DWS06 PLUS is the most performance-oriented all-season tire in this selection, built for larger wheels and spirited driving.

2 Best touring tire

MICHELIN Defender2 All-Season Tire for Cars

MICHELIN Defender2 All-Season Tire for Cars

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
18 in

$243.99 price as of 2026-10-05 06:00 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Michelin Defender2 is a long-running touring nameplate, here offered with an 18-inch rim and car/SUV fitment. It emphasizes comfort and durability, which suits drivers who prioritize a smooth highway ride.

Pros

  • 18-inch rim diameter for a balanced ride
  • Designed for cars, minivans, SUVs, and crossovers
  • All-season tread pattern

Cons

  • Tire size not stated by the seller
  • Premium brand positioning may be more than needed for basic commutes

Good fit if

  • Families with sedans, minivans, or crossovers
  • Drivers who value ride comfort on long trips

Skip if

  • You have 16-inch wheels or smaller
  • You want a sporty, high-speed tire

Verdict: The Michelin Defender2 is a sturdy touring choice for drivers who prefer a quiet, stable ride over aggressive handling.

3 Best for SUVs and crossovers

Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 All Season 255/50R19 107V XL

Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 All Season 255/50R19 107V XL

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
19 in

$297.94 price as of 2026-10-05 06:09 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 is built for SUV and crossover fitments with its 19-inch rim. It is one of three 19-inch picks here, but it stands out for its Scorpion lineage that targets utility vehicles specifically.

Pros

  • 19-inch rim, suited for larger SUVs
  • Marketed for SUV/crossover use
  • All-season tread for varied climates

Cons

  • Tire size not stated by the seller
  • May be overkill for compact sedans

Good fit if

  • SUV and crossover owners with 19-inch wheels
  • Drivers in regions with mild winters who want one tire year-round

Skip if

  • You drive a sports car with low-profile needs
  • You have 17-inch wheels or smaller

Verdict: The Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 is a specialized pick for SUV and crossover owners who want a tire tuned to their vehicle's weight and height.

4 Best for sporty compacts

Yokohama ADVAN SPORT AS+ 205/55R16 91W SL ALL-SEASON ULTRA-HIGH

Yokohama ADVAN SPORT AS+ 205/55R16 91W SL ALL-SEASON ULTRA-HIGH

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
16 in
Tire size
205/55R16

View on Amazon

The Yokohama ADVAN Sport AS+ brings an ultra-high-performance label to a 16-inch fitment, offering sporty handling for compact cars. Its 205/55R16 size is common on many small sedans and hatches.

Pros

  • Exact size 205/55R16 is listed
  • Ultra-high-performance designation in its name
  • Fits 16-inch wheels

Cons

  • Limited to the 205/55R16 size
  • Sporty compound may wear faster than touring tires

Good fit if

  • Drivers of compact sporty cars or hot hatches
  • Those who want a high-performance feel without moving to 18-inch wheels

Skip if

  • You need a larger tire for an SUV
  • You prioritize maximum tread life over handling

Verdict: The Yokohama ADVAN Sport AS+ is the go-to pick for compact car owners who crave sporty responsiveness in a 16-inch package.

5 Best for daily commuting

Kumho Solus TA11 All-Season Tire

Kumho Solus TA11 All-Season Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
17 in
Tire size
225/60R17

$127.58 price as of 2026-10-05 05:55 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Kumho Solus TA11 is a dedicated touring tire with a 17-inch rim, ideal for commuters who want a predictable ride. Its 225/60R17 size is a common fit for family sedans.

Pros

  • Exact size 225/60R17 is listed
  • Touring construction for comfort
  • 17-inch rim balances ride and stability

Cons

  • Not designed for aggressive performance driving
  • Only one size listed

Good fit if

  • Daily drivers who cover many highway miles
  • Sedans and crossovers in the 17-inch wheel class

Skip if

  • You want a high-performance or ultra-high-performance tire
  • You have 16-inch or 19-inch wheels

Verdict: The Kumho Solus TA11 is a sensible, comfortable commuter tire that gets the job done without fuss.

6 Best 17-inch all-rounder

Goodyear Assurance Finesse All-Season 225/65R17 SL 102 H Tire

Goodyear Assurance Finesse All-Season 225/65R17 SL 102 H Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
17 in
Tire size
225/65R17

$105.00 price as of 2026-10-05 05:46 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Goodyear Assurance Finesse All-Season is a well-known name, offered here in a common 225/65R17 size. It targets mainstream sedans and crossovers, with an all-season tread designed for confident all-weather driving.

Pros

  • Exact size 225/65R17 is listed
  • Brand with a strong reputation for balanced performance
  • Suitable for cars and SUVs

Cons

  • Only one size in this listing
  • Not a high-speed tire

Good fit if

  • Owners of mid-size sedans and base crossovers
  • Drivers who want a dependable tire for mixed city and highway use

Skip if

  • You need a performance-oriented tire
  • You have 18-inch or larger wheels

Verdict: The Goodyear Assurance Finesse is a safe, reliable choice for everyday driving, with a tire size that fits many popular vehicles.

7 Best for larger SUVs

Cooper Endeavor Plus All-Season 245/55R19XL 107H Tire

Cooper Endeavor Plus All-Season 245/55R19XL 107H Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
19 in

$206.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Cooper Endeavor Plus is a touring tire designed for the 19-inch wheel segment, with a load index that suits bigger SUVs. Its 245/55R19 size is listed, making it a direct fit for many crossovers.

Pros

  • Exact size 245/55R19 is listed
  • 19-inch rim with a higher load range (XL)
  • Touring tread for a quiet ride

Cons

  • Limited size availability
  • May feel less responsive than a performance tire

Good fit if

  • Mid-size and large SUVs with 19-inch wheels
  • Drivers who want a comfortable highway cruiser

Skip if

  • You drive a compact car with 17-inch wheels
  • You seek maximum cornering grip

Verdict: The Cooper Endeavor Plus is a solid touring pick for full-size SUVs that need a reliable, comfortable tire.

8 Best performance 17-inch

Hankook Ventus V2 concept 2 All-Season Radial Tire

Hankook Ventus V2 concept 2 All-Season Radial Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
17 in
Tire size
225/45R17

$114.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:48 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Hankook Ventus V2 concept 2 is a performance-oriented all-season tire in a 225/45R17 size. Its tread pattern is designed for sharper handling, making it a good match for 17-inch sport sedans.

Pros

  • Exact size 225/45R17 is listed
  • Performance-focused tread pattern
  • V speed class for higher speed operation

Cons

  • Lower profile may give a firmer ride
  • Tread life may be shorter than touring tires

Good fit if

  • Owners of sporty sedans and compact performance cars
  • Drivers who want a responsive feel in a 17-inch wheel

Skip if

  • You prefer a plush, soft ride
  • You need a higher load capacity for a heavy SUV

Verdict: The Hankook Ventus V2 concept 2 delivers sporty handling in a 17-inch package, ideal for spirited commutes.

9 Best for sporty sedans

Falken Ziex ZE950 All-Season Radial Tire

Falken Ziex ZE950 All-Season Radial Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
17 in
Tire size
215/45R17

$100.97 price as of 2026-10-05 05:41 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Falken Ziex ZE950 is a performance all-season tire with a 215/45R17 size, fitting many compact and mid-size sporty sedans. Its design balances grip and everyday usability.

Pros

  • Exact size 215/45R17 is listed
  • Performance-oriented all-season tread
  • Reasonable choice for spirited driving

Cons

  • Only one size in this listing
  • Not ideal for heavy snow conditions

Good fit if

  • Drivers of sporty compact sedans
  • Those who want a tire that feels responsive in corners

Skip if

  • You need a touring tire for maximum comfort
  • You have 16-inch wheels

Verdict: The Falken Ziex ZE950 is a solid choice for compact sedans that want a hint of performance without sacrificing daily practicality.

10 Best under $100

Ironman iMove Gen 3 A/S UHP All Season 205/55R16 91V Passenger Tire

Ironman iMove Gen 3 A/S UHP All Season 205/55R16 91V Passenger Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
16 in
Tire size
205/55R16

$53.97 price as of 2026-10-05 05:52 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Ironman iMove Gen 3 offers a 205/55R16 size and a touring-focused design at an entry-level price point. It's a dependable option for small cars that need an all-season tire without stretching the budget.

Pros

  • Exact size 205/55R16 is listed
  • Touring construction for a comfortable ride
  • Entry-level pricing in this list

Cons

  • Less well-known brand
  • May not offer the same confidence as premium tires in heavy rain

Good fit if

  • Budget-conscious drivers of compact cars
  • Those who need a basic all-season tire for city driving

Skip if

  • You drive an SUV or pickup truck
  • You want a high-performance tire for track days

Verdict: The Ironman iMove Gen 3 is a practical, affordable all-season tire for small cars and daily commutes.

11 Best for 15-inch wheels

Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 235/75R15 105T Tire

Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 235/75R15 105T Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
15 in

View on Amazon

The Starfire Solarus AS is one of the few picks with a 15-inch rim, in a 235/75R15 size that fits older SUVs and light trucks. Its all-season tread and car/SUV fitment make it a straightforward replacement option.

Pros

  • Exact size 235/75R15 is listed
  • 15-inch rim for classic trucks and SUVs
  • All-season tread for varied weather

Cons

  • Limited to 15-inch fitments
  • No performance-oriented features

Good fit if

  • Owners of older SUVs, pickups, and vans with 15-inch wheels
  • Drivers who need a basic, functional all-season tire

Skip if

  • You have 17-inch or larger wheels
  • You want a modern, high-traction performance tire

Verdict: The Starfire Solarus AS is a simple, reliable tire for vehicles that still ride on 15-inch wheels.

12 Best for value in 17-inch

Milestar MS932 Sport 225/55R17 101V All Season XL 17 inch Tire

Milestar MS932 Sport 225/55R17 101V All Season XL 17 inch Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
17 in
Tire size
225/55R17

$101.08 price as of 2026-10-05 06:01 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Milestar MS932 Sport comes in a 225/55R17 size with a V speed class and an extra load (XL) construction, offering sporty traits in a popular size.

Pros

  • Exact size 225/55R17 is listed
  • V speed class for higher speed driving
  • XL load capacity for heavier vehicles

Cons

  • Less established brand reputation
  • Limited to this single size

Good fit if

  • Drivers of 17-inch sedans who want a sporty tire without paying premium prices
  • Those who need an XL load capacity for occasional heavy loads

Skip if

  • You require a premium-tier brand
  • You have 16-inch wheels

Verdict: The Milestar MS932 Sport is a strong value pick for 17-inch drivers who want performance features on a budget.

13 Best for compact cars

Sailun Atrezzo SH408 All Season 215/55R17 94V Passenger Tire

Sailun Atrezzo SH408 All Season 215/55R17 94V Passenger Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
17 in
Tire size
215/55R17

$70.98 price as of 2026-10-05 06:13 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The Sailun Atrezzo SH408 fits many compact and mid-size sedans with its 215/55R17 size. It is a touring-oriented all-season tire that offers a comfortable ride at a reasonable price.

Pros

  • Exact size 215/55R17 is listed
  • Touring tread for quiet operation
  • 17-inch rim fits many popular models

Cons

  • Limited size range
  • May lack the grip of a premium tire in extreme conditions

Good fit if

  • Owners of compact sedans and hatchbacks
  • Drivers who want a balanced tire for city and highway

Skip if

  • You need a tire for an SUV or truck
  • You want a high-performance designation

Verdict: The Sailun Atrezzo SH408 is a dependable touring tire for compact cars, offering a good balance of comfort and cost.

14 Best for 16-inch performance

General Tire G-Max AS-07 UHP All Season 205/50ZR16 87W Passenger Tire

General Tire G-Max AS-07 UHP All Season 205/50ZR16 87W Passenger Tire

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
16 in

$142.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:45 UTC (Details)

View on Amazon

The General Tire G-Max AS-07 combines a 16-inch rim with an ultra-high-performance designation, making it one of the few sporty options for smaller wheels. Its 205/50ZR16 size fits many sport compacts.

Pros

  • Exact size 205/50ZR16 is listed
  • Ultra-high-performance designation
  • Z speed class for high-speed stability

Cons

  • Lower profile may reduce ride comfort
  • Limited to 16-inch fitments

Good fit if

  • Enthusiasts with 16-inch wheels who want sporty handling
  • Drivers of older performance cars

Skip if

  • You prefer a taller sidewall for comfort
  • You have 17-inch or larger wheels

Verdict: The General G-Max AS-07 brings genuine performance credentials to the 16-inch segment for drivers who don't want to upsize.

15 Best for mid-size sedans

Sumi HTR A/S P03 235/65R17 108V XL

Sumi HTR A/S P03 235/65R17 108V XL

Vehicle
Car and SUV
Tread
All Season
Rim size
17 in

View on Amazon

The Sumi HTR A/S P03 is a touring tire with a 235/65R17 size, built for mid-size SUVs and crossovers.

Pros

  • Exact size 235/65R17 is listed
  • XL load capacity for heavier vehicles
  • Touring tread for a quiet ride

Cons

  • Not a performance tire
  • Single size offering

Good fit if

  • Owners of mid-size SUVs and crossovers
  • Drivers who prioritize comfort and load capacity

Skip if

  • You drive a sports car
  • You need a 16-inch tire

Verdict: The Sumi HTR A/S P03 is a reliable touring tire for mid-size vehicles that need a solid all-season performer.

Specifications side by side

#TireVehicleTreadRim sizeTire sizeSold as
1Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season 255/35ZR19 96Y XLCar and SUVAll Season19 innot statednot stated
2MICHELIN Defender2 All-Season Tire for CarsCar and SUVAll Season18 innot statednot stated
3Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 All Season 255/50R19 107V XLCar and SUVAll Season19 innot statednot stated
4Yokohama ADVAN SPORT AS+ 205/55R16 91W SL ALL-SEASON ULTRA-HIGHCar and SUVAll Season16 in205/55R16not stated
5Kumho Solus TA11 All-Season TireCar and SUVAll Season17 in225/60R17not stated
6Goodyear Assurance Finesse All-Season 225/65R17 SL 102 H TireCar and SUVAll Season17 in225/65R17not stated
7Cooper Endeavor Plus All-Season 245/55R19XL 107H TireCar and SUVAll Season19 innot statednot stated
8Hankook Ventus V2 concept 2 All-Season Radial TireCar and SUVAll Season17 in225/45R17not stated
9Falken Ziex ZE950 All-Season Radial TireCar and SUVAll Season17 in215/45R17not stated
10Ironman iMove Gen 3 A/S UHP All Season 205/55R16 91V Passenger TireCar and SUVAll Season16 in205/55R16not stated
11Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 235/75R15 105T TireCar and SUVAll Season15 innot statednot stated
12Milestar MS932 Sport 225/55R17 101V All Season XL 17 inch TireCar and SUVAll Season17 in225/55R17not stated
13Sailun Atrezzo SH408 All Season 215/55R17 94V Passenger TireCar and SUVAll Season17 in215/55R17not stated
14General Tire G-Max AS-07 UHP All Season 205/50ZR16 87W Passenger TireCar and SUVAll Season16 innot statednot stated
15Sumi HTR A/S P03 235/65R17 108V XLCar and SUVAll Season17 innot statednot stated

How the picks were chosen

We started with a pool of 499 all-season tires from an online retailer's listings. We kept only tires designated for cars or SUVs, then shortlisted 15 that cover rim sizes from 16 to 20 inches and different driving purposes: touring, performance, and everyday commuting. Prices are live and read from the store listing at the time of writing; no one on our team has mounted or tested these tires. Our selections are based on the stated specifications and manufacturer's public information.

Picking the right one for you

Tire size: getting the numbers right

The first thing to check is the tire size on your vehicle's door placard or owner's manual. Sizes look like 225/55R17, where the first number is the width in millimeters, the second is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), and the third is the rim diameter in inches. Installing a tire with a different size than recommended can affect speedometer readings, handling, and load capacity. If you are unsure, stick to the exact size listed by the vehicle manufacturer.

All-season vs. dedicated seasonal tires

All-season tires are designed to handle a range of conditions, from dry highways to light snow and rain. They use a rubber compound that stays flexible in moderate cold, but they are not a substitute for winter tires in severe snow and ice. Federal standards distinguish between all-season and winter (snow) tires; winter tires must meet a snow traction index and carry the Alpine symbol. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider a dedicated winter set. Otherwise, a good all-season tire will serve you well for most of the year.

Load capacity and speed class

Two numbers on the sidewall tell you how much weight a tire can carry and at what speed it is designed to operate. The load number (e.g., 91 or 105) corresponds to a specific weight limit in pounds; the speed letter (e.g., H, V, W) indicates the maximum speed capability. Your vehicle's placard states the minimum required load number and speed letter. Choosing a tire with a higher load number is acceptable, but a lower one is not. Always match or exceed the factory requirements.

Touring vs. performance tread patterns

Touring tires use symmetric or directional tread patterns designed for a quiet, comfortable ride and long tread life. Performance tires have asymmetric patterns with larger shoulder blocks to improve cornering grip, but they often give a firmer ride and may wear faster. If you spend most of your time on highways, a touring tire is likely the best fit. If you enjoy spirited driving, a performance-oriented tire will give you more confidence, but be ready for a trade-off in comfort.

Load range and ply count for trucks and SUVs

Light trucks and heavy SUVs may require tires with a higher load capacity, often indicated by letters like SL (standard load) or XL (extra load), or by a ply count. The federal tire selection standard (49 CFR 571.110) requires that the vehicle's tires have a load capacity sufficient for the gross axle weight. Check your owner's manual to see if you need an XL tire; if so, choose a tire that explicitly lists that designation.

UTQG values: treadwear, traction, temperature

Almost all passenger tires carry a Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) label, which includes three values: treadwear (a number like 500), traction (AA, A, B, or C), and temperature (A, B, or C). The treadwear number gives a relative estimate of durability, with higher numbers suggesting longer life. Traction values tell you about wet road braking, and temperature values indicate resistance to heat. These numbers are useful for comparing tires within a brand, but they are not a guarantee of real-world performance. You can find the UTQG values molded into the tire's sidewall.

Questions

What does 'all-season' actually mean?

An all-season tire is designed to perform adequately in a variety of conditions: dry and wet roads, light snow, and moderate temperatures. It typically has a tread pattern with multi-directional grooves to channel water and some small sipes for snow traction. However, it is not designed for severe winter weather. If you face deep snow or icy roads, a dedicated winter tire is a safer choice.

How do I know what tire size I need?

The easiest way is to check the sticker on the driver's side door jamb, inside the fuel door, or in the glove box. It lists the original tire size and the recommended inflation pressure. You can also look in your owner's manual. Never change to an incompatible size, as it can affect speedometer accuracy, handling, and clearance. When in doubt, stick with the exact size from the factory.

Do all-season tires work in the snow?

All-season tires provide basic traction on light snow, but they are not tested to the same snowy-standard as winter tires. Federal regulations define a snow tire as one that achieves a traction index of at least 112 on medium-packed snow and carries the Alpine symbol. If you live in a region where snow is frequent or heavy, consider switching to winter tires for the cold months to improve safety and control.

How often should I check tire pressure?

You should check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Under-inflated tires can reduce fuel economy and cause faster wear. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that keeping tires properly inflated can improve gas mileage by up to 3%. Use a reliable gauge and inflate to the pressure listed on your vehicle's placard, not the maximum pressure printed on the sidewall.

What does the load index mean?

The load capacity number on the sidewall indicates the maximum weight a tire can safely carry when inflated to its maximum pressure. For example, a value of 100 equals 1,764 pounds. Your vehicle's placard will specify the minimum load capacity number required for your vehicle. Choosing a tire with a higher number is fine, but you must never use a tire with a lower load capacity than the factory specification.

Revision notes

  • : First published.

Sources

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