Tyre basics: What you need to know for road safety

Find out about:

• The different types of car tyres
• Sidewall markings and tyre sizes
• Choosing the right tyres
• Australian tyre regulations

Car tyres come in various types, each designed for specific driving conditions and needs.

• Highway terrain (HT) tyres suit paved roads, offering a smooth and quiet drive.
• All terrain (AT) tyres handle both on-road and off-road driving.
• Mud terrain (MT) tyres tackle off-road adventures, handling mud and rocks with ease.
• All season tyres perform well in most weather, but not extreme conditions.
• Summer or performance tyres have great grip and handling on dry roads, ideal for driving in warm weather.
• Winter or snow tyres manage icy and snowy roads, with excellent traction in cold weather.
• Run-flat tyres let you keep driving for a short distance after a puncture, adding safety and convenience.
• Low rolling resistance tyres help save fuel by reducing energy loss, making them a smart choice for eco-friendly drivers.

If you’re unsure of the correct tyre for your drive, ask a qualified tyre specialist or mechanic.

Have you ever noticed those numbers and letters on your tyres and wondered what they mean? Let’s decode them.

• When you look at a tyre from its side, the sidewall runs from the rim to the tread. It features branding and information about your tyres.
• The numbers on the sidewall tell you the tyre’s width, height, diameter, and maximum load rating. The letters reveal its type, construction, load rating, and speed rating.
• Manufacturing date codes show when your tyre was made – important for knowing when to replace them.
• Construction indicators give insights into how the tyre is built. Most passenger vehicles display R for radial. 

Choosing tyres for your vehicle is all about matching them to your needs. Answering these questions may help you tackle tyre choices.

1. What’s your vehicle type?
   Sedans, SUVs, and trucks need different tyres because they handle the road differently.
2. Where do you usually drive?
   If you’re driving on rough tracks or off-road, you might need all-terrain tyres.
3. What’s the climate like?
   Summer tyres suit warm areas. In winter, if the roads are icy or snowy, switch to winter tyres.
4. What do you want from your tyres?
   Some drivers want a quiet ride, or sporty handling, or fuel savings.

Speed ratings denote your tyres’ maximum safe speed under good driving conditions. Letters represent a specific speed. For example, H means the tyre can handle speeds up to 210 km per hour. 

To find your tyres’ speed ratings and other details, check the following:

• the sidewall,
• the tyre placard in the driver door or 
• the fuel filler flap.

Note that driving with tyres lower than the recommended speed rating is illegal. An incorrect speed rating may also affect your car insurance cover.

All-season tyres may handle most conditions well, but dedicated seasonal tyres offer top performance in specific weather. If winter brings frost or snow where you live or holiday, consider switching to winter tyres for better grip.

When you’re not using seasonal tyres, store them in a cool, dry place to help them last longer.

For Australian roads, choose tyres that suit the local climate and your driving style. This may help you enjoy a smooth ride all year round.

Advances in tyre tech bring features that can help make driving safer and more enjoyable. Let’s explore some examples.

• Run-flat tyres can support your car’s weight during a puncture, keeping you safer. This means you won’t have to pull over straight away.
• Noise reduction technology can help minimise road noise, making your ride quieter and more comfortable.
• Fuel efficiency innovations can reduce rolling resistance, helping you save on fuel and cut down on emissions.

Knowing these tyre basics and choosing the right tyres can make your drive more comfortable and efficient. Remember, your tyres aren’t just car parts – they’re a key part of your safe driving experience.