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When it is time to replace tires, there are five factors worth considering: Selection, prices, mileage, warranty, and retailer

Selection

There are advantages to choosing from a good selection of tires. Seek a tire professional that not only offers different brands, but several choices within each brand that will also offer a broad price range and quality

Price

Tires are sold in large price ranges. A single price range may come with a certain set of characteristics such as mileage, traction, and performance capabilities. Purchasing an "expensive" tire does not always equate to getting higher mileage. Some of the more costly performance tires are not made to deliver the miles, but rather, hold the road better. They stick like glue - but because of the softer, more pliable tread compounds, they may wear quicker.

Mileage

Mileage is another consideration. Determine how long you will keep your vehicle and how long you want your tires to last. Longer mileage tires usually equate to a little higher price, but depending on how long you keep your vehicle, it may be the last set of tires you need to purchase.

Warranty

Explore the details of warranties and ratings. Make sure your tires come with a manufacturer's warranty. Some tires come with mileage warranties. Most tires come with a manufacturer's warranty against defects in workmanship and materials. Find a tire retailer that will offer a nationwide warranty on its tires. With the huge increase in light truck and sport utility vehicle, many people want to know whether they should put a passenger rated tire or a light truck tire on their vehicle. A light truck rated tire has an "LT" designation in its size. For example, LT235/75R15 means it is for a light truck vehicle. Passenger sizes have a "P" in front of the size or no letter; P235/75R15 or 235/75R15. Both tires are the same size but have different purposes. Usually light truck sizes can carry more weight and have a little stiffer sidewall. Whichever tire you choose, make sure it meets or exceeds the manufacturer's load carrying capacity.

Selecting Retailer

Finally, find a reputable tire retailer that offers a wide range of brand selection, a range of prices and a good solid warranty. Feel free to ask a lot of questions and get the answers you need to make the right buying decision.