Tire technology has come a long way and drivers are learning that if they take the time to choose a tire suited to their needs, they can see improvements in their vehicle’s operation across the board. If you’d like to have better fuel efficiency, greater vehicle performance, or towing capacity, sometimes the tires are all the difference! However, tire damage and punctures can happen at any time and it’s important to be prepared if that situation occurs. Part of understanding tire repairs is understanding the different types of tires there are. Our ASE certified technicians at Big Apple Automotive in Apple Valley, California, put together a comprehensive list of the 8 different types of tires and their benefits:

1. All-season: The most common tire, these are suitable for dry, wet, and snowy conditions. These are for drivers that need an all-purpose tire throughout the year.
2. All-terrain: These tires are effective when your vehicle encounters different types of road surfaces including paved, gravel, mud, or wherever you need to go.
3. Low Profile: For better handling and performance, drivers choose low profile tires.
4. Mud: With deeper tread to achieve grip, these tires are best for off-road vehicles.
5. Performance: These tires boast better traction for maneuverability at higher speeds.
6. Snow/Winter: During freezing ice and snowy conditions, snow tires provide grip and control on the roads.
7. These tires support SUVs and their operational needs.
8. Truck: Designed for heavy-duty and hauling, truck tires are meant for hard work.

These categories are important to be aware of especially if you experience tire damage. Tire repairs are not an easy task. First, the tire in question must go through a verification process to ensure the tire’s structural integrity is intact. Once that information is figured out, the location of the problem area on the tire is examined to determine if a repair can be performed. Basically, a tire repair can only happen if the damage occurred within the tread. The last important item is the size of the damage in the tread. If the puncture is no larger than ¼ inch or about 6 millimeters. If the tire meets all these requirements, a tire repair can be implemented. If the tire does not meet any of these requirements, a tire repair cannot be done and the tire needs to be replaced.

Depending on where you live, how you drive, and what you demand from your vehicle, your tire choice will help you get the best performance out of your vehicle. Unlike the rest of the state, in Apple Valley, California, we have greater weather fluctuations throughout the year and drivers should consider snow or winter tires. If you work for the weekends when you head out to the great outdoors, your vehicle may benefit from all-terrain tires to get you out to the wilderness and back. At Big Apple Automotive, our technicians are available to speak with you about your driving habits and vehicle needs in order to determine the best tire choice for you. Come by the shop today to browse our extensive collection of tires or call in to ask about our current specials and promotions!

To get started, Contact Us today at any of our 3 convenient Victor Valley locations!