THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD
This article is from our archives and has not been updated and integrated with our "new" site yet... Even so, it's still awesome - so keep reading!
Published on Sun, Feb 17, 2008
By: The LACar Editorial Staff
THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD
It's All In The Numbers
There's no guesswork involved in obtaining important details about the tires on
your vehicle as there is unique identifying information embedded on the
sidewalls. But what do all those letters and numbers mean, you ask.
If your tire reads P185/70R14 87S for example, it tells you the following:
Frequently Asked Questions (and
Bridgestone Firestone Answers)
When you want answers to tire questions, why not go to straight to a respected
source of information. Founded in 1931, Bridgestone is known for quality tires
and is clearly the choice for many of the world's most prestigious automobile
brands.
Before running out to purchase the next set of tires for your vehicle, consider
the following information provided by Mike Filipek, OE Account Manager, Sales
Engineering, Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire.
LA Car: How do I know which tire is right for my vehicle?
Filipek: Tire manufacturers suggest choosing the original equipment (OE) tire
with which your vehicle is fitted from the manufacturer to optimize performance
and to maintain the feel for which your vehicle was designed. Normally a vehicle
manufacturer works in concert with the tire company to design a tire suitable
for a specific vehicle application to optimize the vehicle handling. In some
circumstances a customer may desire different performance characteristics from
the OE tire, perhaps one with better grip, wet handling or that handles on
unique surfaces (snow, off-road). It is wise to consult your local tire retailer
for suggestions.
LA Car: As long as I pick the right size, will any type of tire work?
Filipek: Typically the tire and vehicle are designed by the automotive
manufacturer as a package. Depending on the consumer's preference and driving
styles, many tires may fit the vehicle, but some may be more suitable than
others for the specific application. Distinct designs, tread patterns and
compounds all offer unique performance characteristics in tires and some may be
of greater significance to the end user. Some of these characteristics include
mileage, performance, handling, wet traction, etc. Tires are designed for
specific uses. A reputable tire retailer can offer insight into the best tire
fitment for your vehicle based on your driving habits. For example, if an
individual lives in a snowy climate, choosing a winter tire would be more
sensible than choosing an all season tire.
LA Car: What is the best way to maintain my tires for maximum life?
Filipek: Checking the air pressure each month is advised since tires can lose 1
psi (pound per square inch) monthly. Additionally, tire pressure can drop 1 psi
for every 10 degrees F drop in temperature. Compound this loss over time and
your vehicle may be riding on a very under inflated tire. Tire rotation and
balancing can improve the life and performance of your tires and are important
factors as well. For maximum mileage, rotate your tires every 5,000 miles.
LA Car: How often should I check the inflation of my tires?
Filipek: You should check your air pressure at least once a month, and before
taking a trip (don't forget the spare). For accuracy, check your air pressure
with a tire gauge when tires are cold (vehicle has been parked for three or more
hours or driven less than one mile). Driving heats up tires and increases tire
pressure readings. The proper inflation pressure for your vehicle is listed in
the owner's manual of your vehicle or the door jamb. Some vehicles may recommend
different inflation front and rear. The tire sidewall lists MAXIMUM inflation
pressure and should not be used as an inflation guide.
LA Car: What should I look for to determine if its time for new tires?
Filipek: Always check for obvious signs of wear: exposed tread bars, shoulder
wear, center wear and irregular shoulder wear or cracking. You can also perform
the Lincoln Penny test. Place a penny in the tire's tread (with Lincoln's head
facing down), if you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the treads are worn and
need replacing.
LA Car: How can I tell if my tires are over inflated or under inflated?
Filipek: Start by checking inflation pressure with a tire gauge. The proper
inflation pressure can be found on the vehicle door jamb or in your owner's
manual. Never use the number on the sidewall of your tire - this is the maximum
pressure. Not only should you test the pressure with a tire gauge, but you
should frequently perform visual inspections of your tires. If your tire is
under inflated, the shoulders of the tire will be more worn. If the tire is over
inflated, the center begins to wear more quickly.
Product Review: Bridgestone Turanza EL400 All-Season Tires
As someone who has driven in California for over thirty years, I am well aware
that the claims a tire company makes about their products may differ slightly -
or even greatly - from a tire's actual road performance. A good set of tires, in
my opinion, must provide exceptional handling in a variety of driving conditions
as well as a comfortable ride. Combine these characteristics with good looks and
you have Bridgestone Turanza EL400 all-season tires.
When it comes to automobile tires, one must sometimes make certain sacrifices.
If you want tires that deliver superior handling and performance, you may find
yourself settling for a ride that is less than comfortable and even a bit noisy.
And if you buy tires for a smooth, comfortable ride, you may sacrifice
performance.
Bridgestone seems to have found the proper balance in this tire. I am impressed
by both the performance and comfort. I can definitely feel the road, yet the
ride is smooth and fairly quiet. A noise reduction system incorporated into the
tires produces noise canceling soundwaves to reduce tire noise.
As a hard rain begins to fall, I can't help but notice that the tires are as
confident on wet roads as they are on dry surfaces. Bridgestone claims that this
is due to a specially formulated compound designed to improve traction on wet
surfaces and because of a "rounder" tire shape. What...tires are round, aren't
they? Can something actually be rounder than round? Hey, I'll believe anything.
As a safety expert, I have a healthy respect for any company that places a high
degree of importance on safety. The innovative construction and unique tread
design have created a quality tire that seems to live up to the company's claims
and gives me a feeling of security as I drive.
Bridgestone Turanza EL400 all-season tires appear to provide exceptional
performance at an affordable price.
For information on Bridgestone Tires:
www.bridgestonetire.com
For tire safety information:
www.tiresafety.com