Tires 101

How to practice safe driving: Michelin tires are built with your safety in mind, but emergencies can happen. Learn how to drive safely and handle situations that arise.

Your car's safety depends on your tires, which must be properly maintained in order for them to perform as intended. Treadwear, load limitations, inflation pressure, and installation are some of the variables that might affect the longevity and reliability of tires. By following specified safety rules and doing routine maintenance, drivers can reduce their risk of tire issues and be prepared for the road ahead.

After a tire loses air pressure, run-flat tires are designed to help drivers keep control and continue driving for a limited distance. By reducing the need for quick roadside tire changes, this added mobility enhances convenience and safety.

Like all tires, run-flat tires require proper maintenance, inspection, and servicing to perform as intended. Understanding how run-flat tires work and how they should be cared for helps drivers make informed decisions and protect long-term tire performance.

What are the basics ?

Standardized tire markings define a tire’s load rating and speed rating, two critical indicators of safe tire performance. When properly inflated and loaded, these ratings identify the maximum weight a tire can carry and the maximum speed it can safely sustain. Understanding and respecting these ratings when replacing tires helps ensure your vehicle continues to operate as intended.

A tire size is represented by a sequence of numbers and letters that describe the tire’s dimensions and construction. Additional letters may also appear to indicate the intended application or load capacity.

A tire is designed to meet performance requirements. But beyond a certain level of wear, it needs to be changed. What is the role of the tread? Up to what level of wear does the tire remain effective? And what is the legal minimum tread depth for changing your tires? Find out the answers to all your questions.