Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle that makes direct contact with the road. Staying safe means keeping an eye on tread depth (the UK legal minimum is 1.6mm), but the type of tyre matters just as much. Weather conditions, road surfaces, speed, and even the time of year can all impact your choice. In parts of Europe, it’s even the law to switch to winter tyres at certain times of the year. So, let’s break down the tyre types and help you find the right set for your drive.
Winter Tyres
When temperatures start to dip, it’s time for change to winter tyres. Built with high silica content, they stay soft and grippy in the cold, unlike summer tyres which can harden and lose their traction. Winter tyres have deep grooves designed to grip into snow and ice, giving you better stability and shorter braking distances, sometimes up to 10 meters shorter than other tyres! They’re a must-have if you’re dealing with serious winter weather, offering an extra layer of safety when you need it most. Make sure you book your winter health check for your car to make sure it's in the best possible condition!
Summer Tyres (Standard Tyres)
Summer tyres, or standard tyres, are what you’ll find on most cars as a default. Designed for temperatures above 7°C, they’re ideal for high performance in warmer weather. These tyres are soft enough to grip the road but durable enough for regular driving. A special tread pattern helps prevent aquaplaning by quickly pushing water away, keeping you safely connected to the road. Aquaplaning occurs when there’s enough water between your tyre and the road to cause a loss of grip, which can lead to loss of control. Summer tyres are ideal for the warmer months or if you live in a place where winter doesn’t get too intense.
All-Season Tyres
If you’d rather not worry about switching between summer and winter tyres, all-season tyres are a middle ground. They’re built to handle a bit of everything – rain, mild snow, dry roads – though they won’t perform quite as well as summer tyres in the heat or winter tyres in the cold. All-season tyres are convenient and safe for those who don’t encounter extreme weather, but they’re a compromise, so don’t expect them to outperform seasonal tyres in specialised conditions. Great for those who want year-round reliability without the need to switch sets.
Run-Flat Tyres
Run-flat tyres are all about peace of mind. With reinforced sidewalls, they keep their shape even after a puncture, allowing you to drive up to 50 miles without needing an immediate roadside fix. This means you have time to get somewhere safe to repair or replace the tyre. But if you’re thinking of making the switch to run-flats, keep in mind you’ll need to change all four tyres at once, and you’ll also need a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on your vehicle. The TPMS keeps track of your tyre pressures, alerting you to any issues. A convenient option if you’re looking for safety and a little extra time in case of an unexpected puncture.
High-Performance Tyres
Engineered by the best in the business, high-performance tyres are the result of years of motorsport research and development. They offer fast grip, quick response, and can handle higher speeds with ease. High-performance tyres are standard on sports cars and other powerful vehicles, giving you unrivaled handling and control. They come at a premium price, and because they’re made from a softer compound, they tend to wear out faster. But for drivers who prioritise speed, precision, and the thrill of the road, they’re worth every penny. Just be prepared for slightly higher maintenance if you want to keep them in the best condition.
Finding the right tyre isn’t just about tread depth; it’s about picking a set that matches your driving style, weather, and conditions. At Prestige Cars Kent, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your needs. Whether it’s about switching to winter tyres for better grip, choosing all-season tyres for versatility, or fitting high-performance tyres to unleash the full potential of your vehicle, we’ve got you covered.
Why Choose Prestige Cars Kent?
Why stick to a main dealer when you can get top-quality service at a fraction of the cost? Prestige Cars Kent offers all the perks without the premium price tag. From tyre changes to full vehicle servicing, we provide manufacturer-approved parts and techniques to keep your warranty intact. Our technicians come with main dealer experience, so you’re getting dealership know-how without dealership rates. And with our Prestige 0% Service Finance, keeping up with maintenance has never been easier on the wallet. We also provide affordable alloy wheel protection cover, covering you against unexpected damage when on the road.
Ready to experience the Prestige difference? For tyre recommendations, servicing, or to browse our stock of hundreds of prestige vehicles, get in touch with us today. Our friendly team is here to ensure your car gets the care it deserves – without breaking the bank.