What To Look For When Buying Tires For A Car May 2026

Look for these Department of Transportation (DOT) ratings printed on the sticker or sidewall:

Select a tire based on your specific climate and driving habits. Designed for year-round use. Perform well in wet and dry conditions. Harder rubber compounds last longer (60k+ miles). what to look for when buying tires for a car

They lose grip in extreme cold (below 45°F/7°C) or heavy snow. Summer / Performance Tires: Softer rubber for maximum grip and cornering. Optimized for high-speed stability and braking. Look for these Department of Transportation (DOT) ratings

The three-digit number (e.g., 225 ) is the width in millimeters. what to look for when buying tires for a car