As a local car garage based in Worthing, we get asked a lot of motoring questions. One in particular being “Which car tyres should I buy?”. The range of car tyres we can offer here at Cedar Garage is extensive. So have a read on our thoughts on budget vs premium tyres.
Time To Get New Car Tyres?
Why should you pay for premium car tyres when there’s a budget alternative available? There are so many choices available to you, each option varying in price. You have your big brands from the premium side such as Continental and Michelin, costing significantly more than the less well-known brands. So, are they really worth the extra cost? Unless you are a car enthusiast, most people wonder if there really is much of a difference. The truth is, there is none. It’s all about road safety and road holding.
Your Safety
When using the term ‘budget car tyres’, it doesn’t fill many people with confidence when it comes to safety. However, despite the considerably lower price tag, they are still safety checked and tested. All vehicle tyres in the UK have to meet a certain standard.
In contrast, we do find premium tyres are generally safer when it comes to scenarios like braking in different weather conditions, especially the rain. Budget tyres may have a longer stopping distance in wet weather in comparison. This, at the end of the day, could be the difference between being involved in a collision or not.
Tyre Durability
Many of us are drawn to budget tyres simply because we like to save money where we can. However, this doesn’t always mean they’re a good choice for your vehicle. Testing shows that premium tyres tend to outlive less expensive tyre, as they are produced with a higher quality of materials and compounds. This allows them to be more durable over a variety of terrains. This results in a longer life span of your tyres before they need replacing.
This doesn’t mean that budget tyres are no good. If you are using your car for short, infrequent journeys around town for example, they may suit you well and provide a good length of service. But if you do a lot of mileage each year, the premium option may suit you better. Budget tyres are more economical, but longer and more frequent trips could cost you more in the long run as the tyres will need replacing more frequently.
Fuel Efficiency
We all like to save money where we can, especially on fuel. Filling up your car can be pretty expensive if you don’t have any Tesco ‘6p off a litre’ vouchers! So if your tyre decision impacted your fuel costs, it’s likely you would pick the most cost-effective option. Industry experts say premium tyres are more fuel efficient. The initial cost of the more expensive tyres pays off in the long run. Premium car tyres have low rolling resistance along with specific materials which minimise your fuel consumption.
In Conclusion: Premium Car Tyres Win
While budget tyres will suffice for city driving in dryer weather conditions, they aren’t the most economical choice. If you can stretch your budget to the premium brands, this will be an investment which will benefit your safety and bank account in the long-run. Your premium tyres will last longer and are more durable on wetter roads, as well as saving you on your fuel costs.
However, it is important to remember that your premium tyres will only provide you with these benefits if you look after them. This also applies to budget tyres. Ensure you drive responsibly and choose safe tyres which will serve you well.
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