Choosing tyres
Summer, winter or all-season tyres?
Start with the journeys you cannot postpone, rather than the first discounted set you find.
Know your tyres. Make an informed choice.
Sizes, markings, care and buying: information about passenger-car tyres and wheels. An editorial guide, not an online shop.
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Choosing tyres
Tyres for low annual mileage
Low mileage can preserve tread, but it does not settle every tyre choice.
Choosing tyres
Choosing tyres for frequent motorway trips
Long journeys call for attention to wet performance, loading and the approved specification.
Sizes & markings
Reading 205/55 R16 91V
The sequence combines dimensions, construction and service ratings. Keep it complete when buying.
Sizes & markings
What tyre width describes
The first number describes nominal section width, not simply the visible tread.
Care & checks
Checking tyre pressure when cold
Measure before driving so that heat does not distort the comparison. The target still comes from the instructions for your own vehicle.
Care & checks
Reading the vehicle pressure placard
Several numbers on one sticker are not contradictory. They may belong to different axles, sizes or loading conditions.
Wheels & fitting
Comparing steel and alloy wheels
Material, finish and the particular wheel version are separate decisions. Compare complete options approved for your car.
Wheels & fitting
Rim width and tyre approval
The first number in a wheel size and the first number in a tyre size describe different widths. They need to work together.
Weather & journeys
Winter-tyre requirements in Germany
Germany's winter-tyre requirement follows road conditions. A fixed changeover date or an M+S marking alone does not settle the question.
Weather & journeys
Planning tyre changes beyond a calendar date
A calendar helps reserve an appointment. Weather, driving patterns and the condition of your tyre sets determine whether the timing suits you.
Buying & workshops
Comparing complete tyre quotations
A low unit price does not tell you what four fitted tyres will cost. Put each quotation on the same basis.
Buying & workshops
Ordering tyres online: matching the details
An online tyre order needs agreement between vehicle approval, product specification and the service offered. The cheapest result becomes comparable only after those checks.