Tires are often taken for granted. Many people simply purchase the cheapest tires available and drive on those until someone says it’s time to change them. While this might seem like the most “affordable” option, it comes with a number of hidden costs. 

Cheap tires are more prone to blowouts, they provide less traction, they lower your fuel economy, and they can even decrease your car’s stopping power. Purchasing a pair of quality tires is a worthy investment that will ultimately save money (and potentially a life) in the long run. 

Of course, tires aren’t simply categorized based off of their quality. Tires are divided situationally, depending on what type of surface you’re driving on and what season it is. We’ve broken down the main types of tires you will see, and what they’re best used for. 

All-Season Tires 

All-season tires are best summed up as a “jack of all trades, and ace of none.” They’re designed to provide adequate performance all year-round, hence their name. For people who don’t want to switch out tires as the seasons change, a quality all-season tire is the way to go. 

However, these tires due generally lack the performance increases that other tires can provide in certain situations. 

Summer Tires (and Performance Tires) 

Summer tires, better known as three-season tires, do great in pretty much every condition except snow. They’re designed to make as much contact with the pavement as possible, providing superior handling and traction. They’re also great at deflecting rain through their treads. 

When it comes to snow, however, these tires will leave you spinning and sliding. Because they make extra contact with the ground, they simply can’t get a grip on snow or ice. For those in the Ohio area, you’ll need to swap out these tires with a different set once winter comes. 

Performance tires (typically found on sports cars and European models) are very similar to summer tires. They provide that extra edge for aggressive driving. With every stop, turn, and acceleration, you can feel performance tires going to work. 

Like traditional summer tires, however, they don’t mix well with snow. 

Winter Tires (aka Snow Tires) 

Winter tires are engineered to cut through snow and hold onto icy surfaces. It’s surprising just how effective they can be, even on two-wheel drive vehicles. But they don’t just provide improved traction. Winter tires are made with a special rubber compound designed to endure cold temperatures better than the typical tire. 

For those looking to get the safest, most effective winter driving experience possible, winter tires are a must. 

Other Types of Tires

While the tires listed above tend to be the most common types that people are looking for, there are other specialty tires available for situations. For example, all-terrain tires and mud tires provide extra control and performance in off-road and extreme conditions. 

Low profile tires provide superior handling, and they generally look more attractive. However, they are also more susceptible to damage, and they don’t ride as smoothly as traditional tires. 

What Tires Do I Need? 

If you’re looking to get new tires, your best bet is to go to a reliable auto shop that’s as passionate about their customers as they are about cars. At Zima Automotive, we want our customers to have the best driving experience possible. The right set of tires not only lasts longer and keeps you safer, but they’re more fun to drive on. 

The primary brand we offer is Cooper Tires, which provide an excellent build quality for an affordable price. They also come with a 45 day test-drive warranty. Of course, we do offer other brands as well. Whatever vehicle you may be driving and whatever season you’re driving in, we’re confident we some great options for you. 

Zima Automotive provides tires for any Springfield, Ohio season.