What Size Rims Fit My Car?

Friday, May 17, 2013 by Colin .

Deciding what size wheels fit a car isn't a simple process. You must consider details, such as bolt pattern, offset, width and diameter. We have made the process easy by already taking these factors into account. When you shop for wheels by vehicle on our site, you'll be able to see all options that fit. Tire Rack's website only shows sizes we know will safely work on the vehicle. We also let users know important information, including the fitment may be aggressive and may require fender modifications for a proper fit. 

To ensure a match for your car, we measure your vehicle's critical components with sophisticated electronic tools that allows our fitment engineers to create extremely accurate drawings of these parts. We do the same for the wheels that we offer and then use Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs to match the wheels to a vehicle. Using these electronic tools helps us verify the numerous different critical areas before a wheel can be listed for a vehicle. The items we measure or verify include:

  • Bolt Pattern
  • Centerbore
  • Hub Interference
  • Load Capacity
  • Lug Hardware
  • Suspension Components

When viewing wheels in our Upgrade Garage, you can filter options by diameter, price, finish, brand and even weight. Some vehicles come from the factory with a staggered wheel size fitment and our fitment listings will indicate if we have larger rear wheels for your car. Even if your car originally came with larger rear wheels, you can elect to use the same size in the front and rear if you don't want to stay with a staggered set-up. This will allow you to rotate your tires. Also in our Upgrade Garage, you can select the option that allows you to view the wheels on your vehicle.

For more information on choosing the right wheel for your car, read "Why Shop for Wheels by First Selecting a Vehicle?"

What Brake Rotors are Best?

Friday, May 10, 2013 by Colin .

A key component in your brake system is the rotor. A rotor's primary job is to dissipate the heat caused by braking. Eventually the rotor's thickness will wear down to the point where replacement is needed or they need to be replaced due to warping. Which rotors are best for you will depend on your budget and needs. 

Standard rotors, like those offered from Centric, are a good choice for those who want an Original Equipment replacement. If you want better resistance against warping, the Cryo-Stop rotors are a great choice. They're cryogenically treated for enhanced durability.

Those who wish to upgrade braking performance and appearance of their vehicle can opt for slotted or drilled rotors. StopTech's SportStop Drilled Rotor and Sport Slotted Rotor are both excellent options and reduce brake fade by helping evacuate the surface film of gases that are often released during heavy braking.

For the serious driver who's concerned about performance, take a look at the DBA line. They are all slotted and have a unique ventilation system to maximize heat dissipation. 


Cryo-Stop
Rotor

StopTech SportStop Drilled
Rotor

DBA 5000 Series T3 2-Piece
Rotor


All individual rotors we offer are a direct fit for a vehicle. Shop by vehicle to view the rotors available for application.

How to Determine If Your Tires are Run-Flats

Friday, May 3, 2013 by Colin .

Run-flat tires have become standard equipment on many vehicles. Some cars of the same general model will have certain versions that come with run-flats while others do not. It can certainly get confusing for people who aren't familiar with different vehicle and tire models. 

All run-flat tires have a designation on the sidewall that indicates they are not standard tires. For example, the Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS Pole Position has a run-flat and non-run-flat model in certain sizes. The run-flat model has the letters "RFT" following the name. You can see this by clicking on the Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS Pole Position RFT photo below.


Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS Pole
Position

Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS Pole Position
RFT


Different tire companies use different designations for run-flat tires. Continental uses "SSR", Goodyear uses "RunOnFlat" or "EMT", while Michelin designates their run-flat tires with "ZP."

Many customers are convinced they have run-flat tires because their vehicle didn't come with a spare. This isn't always the case, so be sure to check your tires' sidewall to confirm. Now that you've determined if you have run-flat tires or not, you can determine which option you would prefer. To help you make a decision, read "Deciding Between Run-Flat and Non-Run-Flat Tires." 

Trying to Catch a Brake

Thursday, May 2, 2013 by Colin .

Last year my car's brakes started making that sound that lets you know a replacement was needed soon. Since I own a Toyota Avalon, I wasn't in the market for anything performance oriented. I opted for the Centric Plain 120 Series Rotors and Posi Quiet Ceramic Pads for the front and rear. The rotors and pads are Original Equipment replacements that would perform as good as or better than the factory original. 

Are you looking for a different type of brake? Take a look at our slotted and drilled rotors for enhanced braking performance. Some are also cryogenically treated for improved durability. 

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Centric Plain 120 Series Rotor
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StopTech SportStopDrilled Rotor


Our pads range from Original Equipment replacements to performance oriented pads, such as StopTech's Street Performance Pads and Hawk's Performance Ceramic Pads. Depending on how aggressive the performance pads are, they will be dustier and noisier than your Original Equipment. However, they will enhance your vehicle's stopping power.   

Is it time for the brakes to be replaced on your vehicle? Read "Brake Pad or Rotor Inspection & Replacement" for assistance on getting your new brakes installed correctly.

Best Tires for Roadrace and Autocross Events

Tuesday, April 30, 2013 by Colin .

With spring here, many drivers are getting ready to purchase tires for roadrace or autocross use.  

For those who want tires they'll use mostly on the street, but want to do some racing, the Extreme Performance Summer category offers some good options. Tires in this performance category won't give you the fastest lap times compared to competition tires, however they are a good choice for the less serious racer. If this sounds like what you're looking for, consider the following options:

For the more serious race enthusiast, take a look at our selection of Track & Competition DOT tires. These are options that shouldn't be driven on the street and are for the track only. If you are looking for a tire for your roadrace event, consider the Hoosier R6. If autocross is your event, take a look at the A6 from Hoosier.


BFGoodrich g-Force Rival

Hoosier R6

Hankook Ventus Z214


Hoosier's set-up process to maximize treadwear and handling is more involved than other tires, however their tires are hard to beat! For those that want a good competition tire at a lower price point, the Hankook Ventus Z214 is available in both a roadrace and autocross compound. 

Will your new set of tires need to be saved? If so, how far should they be shaved? Read "Shaving Tires for Autocross / Track Use / Competition" to see how this service can help you maximize your tire's performance capabilities early in their life.

Wheel Sizes That Fit Your Car

Monday, April 29, 2013 by Colin .

When looking for wheel sizes that fit a vehicle, many people often start by searching on Google. With our extensive fitment database, all you need to do is search by vehicle on our site and view the options that are a match for what you drive.

Our engineering department measures the vehicle's components and evaluates which wheels will fit correctly. Items we measure or verify to ensure the wheel fits your vehicle includes:

  • Bolt pattern
  • Centerbore
  • Hub interference
  • Load capacity
  • Lug hardware
  • Suspension components

Once you arrive at the wheel listings, you may have the option to select wheels of the same size or with a minus sizing or Plus Size fitment. Larger diameter wheels enhance the vehicle's appearance, but will decrease ride quality. Minus sizing is commonly done for people who purchase winter / snow tire and wheels or to improve ride quality. 

If you want a more aggressive fitment and don't mind having modifications done, our "Important Notes" link under the wheel's specs should be read before making your final decision. For more help with making your wheel choice, be sure to click on the "View on Vehicle" link that allows you to see the wheel on your vehicle.

To see how we find the wheels that are a match for your vehicle, read "How We Know What Fits."

Deciding Between Run-Flat and Non-Run-Flat Tires

Thursday, April 25, 2013 by Colin .

Many vehicles come equipped with run-flat tires from the manufacturer. Our sales specialists receive many calls from drivers asking if they can replace their run-flat tires with non-run-flat options. There are a few pros and cons when it comes to changing to a non-run-flat tire.

Pros:

  • Conventional tires are typically less expensive
  • Better ride quality
  • Longer lasting

Cons:

  • Many vehicles don't have a spare, therefore you won't be able to drive when you get a flat
  • When leasing a vehicle, many companies often require vehicles sold with run-flats be returned with them

Switching to conventional tires will not negatively affect the vehicle and will fit on Original Equipment wheels. Also, for those that don't have a spare, take a look at the Continental ContiComfortKit that seals and inflates tire punctures. It's capable of comfortably sealing typical tire punctures that make it possible for you to complete your drive home, to work, an important appointment or a tire repair facility. The ContiComfortKit combines a powerful, high-volume, 12-volt air compressor, integral pressure gauge and a latex liquid sealant packaged in a compact, lightweight unit that's easy to store in your vehicle.

I have experienced first-hand the differences between non-run-flat tires and run-flats. The BMW I owned came with 18" wheels and Bridgestone Potenza RE050A RFT tires and I switched to 19" wheels and the Sumitomo HTR Z III. Normally, increasing the wheel diameter has a negative impact on ride quality, however I thought the conventional tires on larger sized wheels actually rode a little better than the 18" run-flats. 

To find the tire that works best for your car, shop by vehicle.

Hankook's Latest All-Season Performance Tire, the Ventus S1 noble2

Friday, April 5, 2013 by Colin .

Hankook has introduced a new Ultra High Performance All-Season tire with the Ventus S1 noble2. It appears it'll be a superior option to the Ventus V4 ES H105.

The Ventus S1 noble2 has an asymmetric tread design compared to the directional design of the V4 ES H105. This offers you the ability to fully rotate the tires on the vehicle to maximize treadlife. In addition, asymmetric tires tend to stay quieter as they wear. Hankook uses a hybrid tread compound technology silica that offers lower rolling resistance, improved treadlife and enhanced wet traction. 

Ventus S1 noble 2 tires are offered with a 50,000-mile treadlife warranty and a road hazard warranty for the first year or 2/32" of treadwear. This is an improvement over the Ventus V4 ES H104's treadlife warranty, which only extends to tires with a 40-series sidewall and up. 

Kontrol Technology is a Hankook philosophy, as well as a set of proprietary innovations applied during tire research, development and production to ensure controlled driving experiences. The "K" denotes "kinetic" to show that the interaction of this tire with the road lies at the heart of driving control. This technology provides a range of benefits across four areas that drivers identify as key when choosing quality tires: performance, safety, comfort and environmental impact. And just as with other Hankook tires, this new option is priced as a great value for the performance it offers. 

When you purchase a set of four Hankook Ventus S1 noble2 tires before June 30, 2013, you can receive an American Express® Reward Card valued at $60 by mail-in rebate. View details here.

When Should I Remove My Winter / Snow Tires?

Thursday, March 21, 2013 by Colin .

People often ask when they should put on and remove their winter / snow tires. Typically, the time most drivers have their winter tires on their vehicle is from late November to early April.

It's important to use them only during the winter months in an attempt to maximize their treadlife. As illustrated in the photo below, tread depth is one of the most important features of a winter tire. 

New Tire Tread Depth   Approaching Winter
Wear Indicators
  Approaching Tread
Wear Indicators

Combines necessary features (tread design, compound and depth) to provide effective snow traction   The tire has worn to about 6/32", where its ability to provide beneficial snow traction diminishes   While still legal at 2/32", the tire has worn well past the depth where it provides beneficial snow traction


All that being said, for much of the country, it's close to the time to switch to your non-winter tires or purchase a new set. We offer many affordable tire options to fit your budget. Also, nothing changes the appearance of your vehicle more than a new set of aftermarket wheels. You can even see what your car will look like with new wheels when you visit our Upgrade Garage.

BEFORE

AFTER

Find a set of wheels to go with your tires to create a Tire & Wheel Package and we'll mount and balance them and include any necessary hardware at no extra cost!

Spring Cleaning

Friday, April 8, 2011 by Colin .
Is your vehicle ready for spring cleaning?  

The line of interior and exterior detailing and wheel products from Griot's Garage will keep your wheels and tires looking great. Here are a few of the the products that will give your vehicle that shine for the warmer driving months:  

Griot's Garage Wheel Cleaner 35 oz. Griot's Garage 4-Finger Lambskin Mitt Griot's Garage The Ultimate Car Wash Bucket Griot's Garage Car Wash 16 oz.
Wheel Cleaner 4-Finger Lambskin Mitt Car Wash Bucket Car Wash
Griot's Garage Vinyl and Rubber Dressing Griot's Garage Microfiber Pads Griot's Garage Microfiber Drying Towel Griot's Garage Multi-Pattern Hoze Nozzle and Car Wash Dispenser
Vinyl and Rubber Dressing Microfiber Wash
Pads
Microfiber Drying Towel Multi-Pattern Hoze Nozzle
and Car Wash Dispenser

View all Griot's Garage products here.

Summer Tire Showdown

Friday, March 25, 2011 by Colin .
Two popular Max Performance Summer tires are being replaced this year, the Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 and the Bridgestone RE050A Pole Position. Listed below are the two tires and their replacements:

Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Michelin Pilot Super Sport
Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Michelin Pilot Super Sport

Benefits & Features of the Pilot Super Sport:
  • Better handling inspired by the same engineering that has powered 13 consecutive victories at 24 Hours of Le Mans
  • Pilot Super Sport tires are comparatively light, with weight savings of up to 10% when compared to tires of similar dimensions.
  • Superior performance at very high speeds and in wet conditions
Bridgestone Potenza RE050A Pole Position Bridgestone S-04 Pole Position
Bridgestone Potenza RE050A Pole Position Bridgestone S-04 Pole Position

Benefits & Features of the S-04 Pole Position:
  • Improved wet and dry handling
  • Tuned to minimize block deformation during braking
  • Contact footprint has been optimized for even contact pressure across entire tread surface
  • Advanced pattern design helps to minimize noise
Testing of each new tire will begin this spring!

Shop by vehicle to see which tires work best for your vehicle.

Springs and Shocks for Spring

Friday, March 18, 2011 by Colin .
Are you looking to improve the suspension on your vehicle? With options available from companies such as H&R, Eibach and Koni, Tire Rack has the products to improve your vehicle's appearance and handling.  

An entry-level introduction to improving your vehicle's appearance and handling is to purchase a set of lowering springs and performance dampers.

If you are looking for more control over adjustability then consider a coil-over or cup kit

Anti-roll bars are also a great addition to improve handling and help remove body roll around corners. 

Lowering will change the ride characteristics of the vehicle, therefore give some thought to the balance you want to maintain between handling, looks and ride comfort. If you have upgraded your wheels and tires to a larger-than-original size, you will also want to check clearance before you decide on the kit you want.          

New Wheel Brands at Tire Rack

Friday, February 18, 2011 by Colin .

With spring right around the corner, it is a perfect time to get new wheels for your vehicle. Below are are a few of the newest wheel options and brands available at Tire Rack:

Helo HE868 (Machined w/Black Accent)  
Helo HE868
(Machined w/Black Accent)

 

Lorenzo WL26 (Chrome Plated) HRE P40 (Brushed w/Clearcoat)
Lorenzo WL26
(Chrome Plated)
HRE P40
(Brushed w/Clearcoat)


Shop by vehicle or contact one of our sales specialists for fitment options and pricing.

 

Michelin Pilot Super Sport

Saturday, February 12, 2011 by Colin .
Michelin Pilot Super SportBuilding on the characteristics of the Pilot Sport PS2, Michelin is preparing to release their newest product in the Max Performance Summer tire category. The Pilot Super Sport is designed to enhance your vehicle's performance and safety, while delivering durability, handling and traction with increased tread life.  

The tire highlights Michelin's Bi-Compound tread rubber featuring the dry compound outboard side-by-side with their latest generation of wet compound inboard. The low-void outboard shoulder features a track-type compound to withstand the stresses of high performance cornering while the center ribs and inboard shoulder feature a compound designed for superior performance at very high speeds and in wet conditions.

The internal improvements feature twin steel belts reinforced by spirally wound polyamide cords that offer a lightweight, high-strength reinforcement above the steel belts to enhance high-speed handling, wear and durability.

The Pilot Super Sport offers weight savings of up to 10% compared to tires of similar dimensions. This reduces unsprung weight to improve your vehicle's handling.  

Contact one of our sales specialists for more information on the Michelin Pilot Super Sport.

Check Your Pressure

Friday, February 4, 2011 by Colin .
With cold temperatures dominating our forecasts, it is important to monitor your tire's air pressure. Tire Rack offers a variety of air gauges to meet your needs.

Accutire Digital Set Point - Allows you to store your vehicle's pressure information and incorporates a small flashlight at the top of the gauge.


Accutire Digital Set Point™ Programmable Air Gauge w/Light

If you are looking for something smaller, consider:


Accutire Digital Pencil Air Gauge


Accutire Digital Pencil Air Gauge
and the Accutire ABS Coated Air Gauge

Accutire ABS Coated Air Gauge
Remember, monitoring your tire's air pressure will help ensure the best fuel efficiency and tire wear for your vehicle.

Shopping for Wheels by Vehicle

Saturday, January 29, 2011 by Colin .
Why is it best to search for wheels by your specific vehicle? 

Our experience indicates that searching by wheel size, offset and bolt pattern alone are not specific enough criteria to ensure an exact fitment. Tire Rack uses sophisticated tools to create extremely accurate readings for proper fitment. With many wheel/vehicle combinations, each wheel is individually tested on the vehicle manually or electronically.
This attention to detail prevents vibration, interference and unbalanced handling with our wheel and tire packages.

Other items we measure or verify:
  • Bolt Pattern
  • Center-bore Diameter
  • Hub Diameter
  • Load Capacity
  • Lug Hardware
  • Suspension Components Clearance
If you have a custom fitment question, contact one of our sales specialists for assistance.

Take a Brake

Thursday, January 20, 2011 by Colin .
Now is a good time to have your pads and rotors inspected. Tire Rack carries a large assortment of pads and rotors for almost every vehicle on the market. 

If you are looking for Original Equipment brake products consider:
Akebono
Centric Parts




If you want to improve your braking performance beyond original stock levels take a look at:

Power Slot



Hawk Performance


View our website for the brake equipment that best fits your vehicle.

We Still Have Winter Tires

Thursday, January 13, 2011 by Colin .
This winter had been pretty harsh for many people. If you are thinking of installing winter / snow tires we still have excellent options in stock and ready to ship. 

Switching to winter / snow tires will make a huge difference. Most vehicles come with all-season tires that are a "jack of all trades, master of none." Even all-wheel drive vehicles will benefit greatly from changing to winter / snow tires since all-wheel drive still relies on the traction provided by your tires. 

Some of the best options we have are:
Keep in mind that winter / snow tires should always be used in a matching set of four.

The Hankook Optimo H727

Wednesday, January 5, 2011 by Colin .
Hankook Optimo H727
A couple of months ago I purchased some Hankook Optimo H727 tires for my girlfriend's car.  She had some generic, no-name tires on her vehicle and was complaining of vibration at highway speeds as well as poor wet traction.

I thought it would be best to replace them before winter. I picked the Hankook based on  price and the consumer reviews we have on our website. I have to say I am impressed with them. The vibration at high speeds is gone. They are quiet, ride well and their wet and dry traction is very good. My main concern was snow and ice traction and they have met my expectations. My driveway is on an incline and she has had no issues reaching the top and has not expressed concern with their stopping ability.

I will continue to recommend this tire to my customers.

My Review of the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1

Friday, December 10, 2010 by Colin .
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1I purchased a set of the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 for my Blazer this year. Previously I used the Firestone Winterforce. The Firestones were good in the snow, but lacked in ice traction and were on the noisy side. 

I have been very impressed with the Blizzaks. They have superior snow and ice traction. So much so that I don't feel the need to engage 4-wheel drive as often as I normally would. They ride very nice and don't feel soft and spongy.

I would have switched to these tires last year had I known they were going to perform so well!