The right tyre suits your vehicle, your usual roads and the way you drive. Start with the required specifications, then compare safety, performance, comfort and overall cost rather than price alone.
Start with the correct fitment
Check your vehicle’s specified tyre size, load index and speed rating using its handbook, tyre placard or manufacturer information. Check the front and rear requirements separately: some vehicles use different sizes. Wheel diameter alone is not enough to establish compatibility.
If your wheels have been changed or you are considering a different size, ask a qualified tyre professional to confirm suitability before buying. Do not assume a tyre is suitable just because it can be fitted to the wheel.
Think about your everyday driving
Consider where you spend most of your time: urban streets, motorways, rural sealed roads or unsealed surfaces. Include the conditions you regularly encounter and whether you carry heavy loads or tow. Choose for your real use, not just an occasional trip or the appearance of the tread.
Understand the main tyre categories
Touring tyres: Generally aimed at everyday road use, with a balance of comfort, noise, wear and handling. The balance varies by model.
Performance tyres: Often prioritise steering response and grip in their intended operating conditions. Compare their comfort, wear and temperature suitability as well as handling.
Highway SUV tyres: Typically designed for predominantly sealed-road driving. Check the exact tyre’s load capability and intended use.
All-terrain tyres: Designed for a mix of surfaces, with compromises that may affect noise, efficiency or sealed-road behaviour. An SUV does not automatically need them.
Category names are starting points, not guarantees. Evaluate the specific model and size.
Put wet-weather performance in the comparison
Look for credible information about wet braking and handling, not just descriptions such as “excellent grip”. Independent tests can be useful, but results depend on the tested tyre size, vehicle and conditions. A result for another size or an older model is not a direct measurement of the tyre you are buying.
Balance comfort, noise and efficiency
Ride comfort, cabin noise and rolling resistance can matter particularly on long journeys or in an EV. Compare these alongside suitable grip and handling. An exterior noise rating does not directly tell you how quiet a tyre will sound inside your vehicle.
Compare price and value fairly
A higher price is not a complete performance assessment, and the cheapest purchase is not always the lowest overall cost. Compare equivalent fitments and what each quote includes, such as fitting, balancing, valves, disposal and any applicable charges.
Be cautious about mileage promises without clear conditions. Actual wear depends on driving, road surfaces, inflation, alignment, loading and maintenance. Consider credible performance evidence and support alongside the upfront price.
Replacing fewer than four tyres
Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements for matching tyres and allowable differences in wear or rolling circumference. This is especially important on some all-wheel-drive vehicles. Ask a tyre professional about axle placement and compatibility rather than assuming any two tyres can be mixed.
Do not mix constructions or fitments without confirming they are appropriate for the vehicle. Any directional arrows and inside/outside markings must be followed during fitting.
Questions to ask before ordering
- Does this exact tyre meet my vehicle’s size and rating requirements?
- Is it suited to my usual roads, load and driving conditions?
- What credible evidence supports its wet-weather and handling performance?
- What trade-offs should I expect in comfort, noise, efficiency and wear?
- What is included in the total fitted price?
- Will it work appropriately with the tyres remaining on my vehicle?
Make an informed choice
Choose a suitable fitment first, then prioritise the performance qualities that matter for your driving. If you are unsure, provide your vehicle details, current front and rear tyre sizes and typical driving needs when asking for advice.
Watch and learn
Watch: How to read a tire: our experts explain tire markings — Michelin, The Workshop
Learn about tyre sizes, load and speed ratings, and sidewall markings. Use your vehicle handbook or manufacturer information to confirm the correct replacement specifications.