Tires are, for lack of a better description, where the rubber meets the road. They are the connection between your vehicle and the road, which makes them a very important safety feature and what helps determine the performance of your vehicle in a big way. A lot of planning and design go into any tire and it’s important that you know more about them. When visiting a shop for auto repair in Philadelphia, PA, ask for more information on your tires so you know how to treat them to make them last. In the meantime, let’s take a look at the patterns on certain tires.
Most tire brands have different tread designs for each of their tire lines. The designs are carefully put together to serve various functions for different vehicles. The tires can be classified based on their specialties. There are four major tread patterns that are used on tires:
Directional Tread Patterns
These tires have obvious patterns with grooves that are cut from the edge of the tire all the way to the center in angled v patterns. These tires usually help cars to perform better. Because of their design, they prevent hydroplaning on water and give cars better handling. They perform well in snow and mud and they can give you better fuel efficiency over time. However, because of their design, they can’t be rotated and have to be fitted properly. They are more expensive than other options as well.
Symmetrical Tread Patterns
These tires are the most common and are easy to spot because of the blocks or groves that are continuous all over the tire tread. If you flip the tire, it has the same tread so it can be rotated to wear evenly. These tires are affordable because they are in high demand and are produced in large numbers. They don’t perform as well in the rain or snow since they are meant more for daily use.
Asymmetrical Tread Patterns
The pattern on the tire is rather strange with different designs on the shoulders of the tires. They handle great on wet and dry roads and they don’t give off as much noise compared to other tires. They also don’t last as long as have to be replaced more often and they cost a bit more. They usually only come in sizes 17” or above.
Flow Optimized Asymmetrical Tread Patterns
These tires are a combination of directional and asymmetrical tires and have half of a v design. They give you a high level of protection against water and give a great performance on curves. They are harder to find, though, and aren’t as available so they cost more as well. They also cannot be rotated.
Talk to the professionals at the auto repair shops in Philadelphia, PA when you need new tires to see what’s best for you. Call Schafer’s Auto Center at (215) 755-1270 and ask about new tires. You can also visit us at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19148, see examples, and get details.
