Paul Cowland: Top Tips for Buying New Tyres

Buying new tyres can feel like stepping into a confusing maze of rubber, jargon, and price tags. With so many options — brands, sizes, tread patterns, and cryptic labels — it’s easy to roll out of a garage wondering if you got the right deal or just whatever the charming manager convinced you to buy. As a grizzled motor trade veteran that’s had more cars than I’ve had hot dinners, I’m here to clear all of that up.

Here are a few of the things that I always bolt down before taking the car into the workshop ready for some new rubber. Hopefully, if you heed my advice, you’ll leave the shop with the right tyres for your vehicle, within budget, and have peace of mind, plus a big smile on the way home.

What do the tyre labels mean, and which specs suit my needs?

Tyre labels are like the nutritional facts on a cereal box — packed with info, but only useful if you know what to look for. Here in Europe, tyres come with standardised labels detailing fuel efficiency, wet grip, and noise levels. If you’re not sure, your tyre shop will happily decode these for you. For instance, an ‘A’ rating for wet grip means shorter braking distances in rain, which is critical for us Brits! Fuel efficiency ratings (also graded from A to E) indicate how much the tyre impacts your fuel economy — lower rolling resistance saves you at the pump. And who doesn’t want that?

For city commuters, ask about tyres designed for durability and comfort over long hauls. A good shop will align their recommendations with your driving patterns and your vehicle type (family car, SUV, hot-hatch etc.).

Which brands are best for my vehicle and budget?

Well, obviously, I might be coming at this from a position of some bias, but there are some general rules to abide by.

Tyre brands range from premium heavyweights that you’ll have seen on TV adverts to budget-friendly options that can actually really surprise you. They both have their strengths, but don’t let a shiny logo dazzle you into overspending. Ask yourself ‘What brands offer the best value for my specific vehicle and driving needs?’ Premium brands often excel in longevity and performance, but mid-tier brands can match them in specific categories—like wet handling or noise reduction—at a much lower price.

That’s where Envoy comes in. Whether you’re making the most expensive tyre in the world, or offer superb value like the Envoy range, they all have to be sent away for independent testing, during which they have to meet specific requirements to be deemed safe on the roads. That’s how the labelling system is created, and my advice is, if you can find a tyre that has, say, an ‘A’ grade wet weather rating for less money than a premium tyre with precisely the same rating, that’s the one to go for! It’s well worth comparing the Envoy range labels against some of the more established – and expensive – competition. In many cases, you’ll find you can achieve a similar level of performance, and spend a LOT less money.

Generally speaking, most tyre shops will want to sell you what they have in stock on that day, which makes a great deal of sense when you see it from their point of view. If you’re after a specific brand, call or email ahead to make sure they have got the size you need. Don’t worry if they don’t – in most cases, they can usually get it the very next day or sooner.

What’s the total cost, including hidden fees?

Tyre prices can be a little tricky, so it’s worth drilling down into the details before you agree the deal. Make sure you are aware of what the estimate includes – whether you have been given the fully fitted price which includes the fitting, alignment, balancing and disposal, or if it’s just the tyre price. Ask,‘What’s the out-the-door price for everything?’ A reputable shop will break it down transparently and ensure you know exactly what you are paying for. 

Also, enquire about warranties or guarantees. Many tyres come with mileage warranties, but the fine print matters. Ask,‘What’s covered, and what voids the warranty?’ Pro tip: Keep receipts and rotate your tyres regularly to avoid warranty disputes.

All Envoy tyres come with an Accidental Damage Guarantee, which provides protection for drivers who may experience accidental damage to their tyre through normal road use. Where damage has occurred, you’ll receive a replacement tyre at a discounted price, based on the amount of tread already used. Based on how poorly maintained the roads are at the moment, this could come in VERY handy.

Are these tyres safe and up to date?

Safety isn’t just a buzzword. Ask,‘What safety features do these tyres have?’ Look for specifics like reinforced sidewalls, advanced tread compounds for grip, or run-flat technology if you’re prone to flats in the middle of nowhere. Check the tyre’s manufacturing date (a four-digit code on the sidewall, e.g., 2424 for the 24th week of 2024). Tyres older than seven years can degrade, even if unused, so be sure to look out for this before making your selection. This is particularly pertinent if your vehicle has an unusual size that may have been sitting on the dealer’s shelf for a little while.

What’s your expert advice for my driving conditions?

A good tyre shop isn’t just a sales counter; it’s a knowledge hub. Ask,‘Based on my driving conditions, what tyres do you recommend and why?’ Share details—do you battle icy winters, scorching summers, or pothole-riddled city streets? All-season tyres for instance are versatile but can feel compromised in extreme weather, while summer tyres grip like a gecko in warm climates but turn brittle below 7°C (45°F). If you’re in a rural area with more uneven road surfaces, ask about all-terrain options.

Don’t be shy about pushing them for specifics. A vague “these are great” doesn’t really help you. A great shop will explain how certain tread designs boost cornering stability, or work better in the wet. If they can’t articulate why a tyre fits your needs, it’s perhaps time to have a little shop around.

How often should I maintain these tyres?

Tyres aren’t a fit-and-forget part. Ask, ‘What maintenance do these tyres require to maximise their lifespan?’ Regular rotation (every 5,000-8,000 miles) and wheel alignment prevent uneven wear, while proper inflation—checked monthly—boosts safety and efficiency. Ask for the recommended PSI (found in your car’s manual or door jamb) and whether the shop offers free pressure checks or rotation services. Some do as a way of regularly enticing you back. If it’s on your route to work, then why not?

Enquire about signs of trouble to look out for. Cracks, bulges, or a tread depth below 1.6mm across the whole tyre signal it’s time for new rubber. A shop that educates you on maintenance is a keeper and one to continue returning to.

Are there any promotions or discounts available?

Tyre shops love a deal as much as you do. Ask, ‘Are there any current promotions, rebates, or bundle offers?’ Many brands run seasonal rebates and shops may throw in free alignment or installation to sweeten the deal.

Don’t forget to ask about loyalty programs or price matching. If you have compelling evidence of an up-to-date, comparable offering, at an equivalent outlet, chances are, most ‘proper’ places will match it – as long as you’re comparing apples with apples, of course.

What if I’m not satisfied with these tyres?

Even the best tyres can feel off if they don’t match your expectations. Ask, ‘What’s your returns or satisfaction policy?’ Some shops offer a 30-day trial period or exchange options if the ride quality disappoints. Clarify terms upfront—returns often exclude worn or damaged tyres.

Buying tyres doesn’t have to be a chore. By asking these questions, you can drive away with confidence, knowing you’ve made an informed choice. A great tyre shop will welcome your curiosity, not dodge it, and they’ll pair you with tyres that keep you safe, save you money, and maybe even make your drives a bit more fun. So, next time you’re staring down a wall of black rubber, channel your inner detective, ask the right questions, and drive off into the sunset…

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