The Doc is In!

My nickname is Doc, and I'm a sales specialist at Tire Rack. We are very fortunate to have our own test track and test cars from BMW and Porsche at our disposal. It's very exciting coming to work and knowing I get the chance to drive on just about every type of tire from twenty different manufacturers. Please keep an eye on my blog for my take on new tires, wheels and suspension components that you can use on your vehicle. Thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Tire Pressure Sensors

Thursday, May 16, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Starting with 2008 model year cars and light trucks, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has been required for all new vehicles sold in the United States. While some vehicles (Audi and BMW most recently) use the ABS system (or indirect system) to keep watch for a deflating tire, most use a battery powered sensor (based in the base of the valve stem assembly) to give the most accurate read of your tire pressure. When replacing tires or wheels and tires as a complete package, the presence of these remote sensors can require a few extra steps in the purchase and/or installation process.

Why does my installer charge a "TPMS" service fee for installing new tires?

Many of our Recommended Installers will charge a TPMS service fee as part of new tire installation. When the old tire is being removed from your existing wheel, it's best to remove the TPMS sensor (and the attached valve stem). This avoids any damage caused by breaking the tire bead loose from the wheel as well as seating the new tire onto the wheel. Once the sensor has been removed, it will require a new "O" ring and/or compression ring to seal the sensor properly.

What happens if I do not add new TPMS sensors to my Tire & Wheel Package?

When we sell a set of wheel and tires, we're happy to mount and Road Force balance the tires to the wheels at no cost prior to shipment. Given the TPMS sensors are located inside the wheel (opposite the valve stem hole), the sensors (if requested) need to go in the wheel before the tires are installed. Without the sensors installed, most vehicles will display a warning light and chime upon engine start up (the light will continue to blink as long as the engine is running). Some vehicles may also limit your ability to turn off traction control if you need to "rock" out of a snow drift in winter or even limit engine output. In many states, an active TPMS system is required as part of the state's safety inspection, and any illuminated warning lights may cause the vehicle to fail its annual safety inspection. With your purchase, you can elect to add the correct sensor (at an additional cost) or choose to have your existing sensors removed from your old wheels and installed on the new wheel. If run-flat tires are being purchased with new wheels, new sensors are required.

If I purchase new sensors as part of my Tire & Wheel Package, what else needs to be done before use?

Many vehicles require new TPMS sensors be activated or initialized at an authorized repair facility or dealership. This process normally involves connecting the vehicle to a service computer (via the ODB port under your dashboard) and having a technician load the new sensor's ID codes into the car's computer. Most cars will need to have this activation service performed each time wheels and tires are changed out (like when changing from dedicated winter wheels and tires back to your summer/all-season set). As always, consult your owner's manual or contact your dealer for more information. 

Hoosier Race Tires - Do I Need the A6 or R6 Compound?

Thursday, May 2, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Here at Tire Rack, we are lucky to be within a short distance of one of the best race tire manufacturers in the country: Hoosier Racing Tire. It all began in the early 1950s when Robert Newton raced on small asphalt tracks around northern Indiana. Bob, was not satisfied with driving on street tires, so he decided to produce tires specifically designed for racing. Of the wide variety of tires that Hoosier offers, we have committed to stocking their two most popular models aimed at the needs of our customers who either autocross or roadrace: the A6 and R6.

Hoosier A6 tires are intended to be used at autocross events, as the tire has a lower operating temperature for maximum traction. Many autocross events are too short on time or distance to get a race tire up to its optimal temperature. This is why the A6 is perfect for these situations. The softer rubber compound that the A6 uses doesn't have enough durability to endure long run times (like in a track environment), so they should be used for shorter runs only.

R6 tires feature a more durable rubber compound that needs a little more time to come up to an ideal temperature range to be effective. This type of rubber compound makes the R6 better suited for longer runs with little cool down between sessions. For best results, Hoosier recommends a heat cycle of the compound at least 24 hours prior to use to maximize durability. Heat cycling is available for our customers when shipping from our Indiana or Nevada distribution centers for only $15 per tire.


Hoosier A6

Hoosier R6


Bear in mind, both the A6 and R6 radials are not intended to be driven in colder (below 40º F) temperatures, through snow or on ice. For best results, the tires also need to be stored indoors at temperatures maintained above 32º F. For more information on properly maintaining your Hoosier tires, read "Care and Feeding of the Hoosier A6/R6."

Need the Quietest Tire for Your SUV or Light Truck? Consider the Michelin LTX M/S2

Tuesday, April 30, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Very few of the pickup trucks and SUVs on the road today will venture off-road. However, many vehicles are still designed with tough off-road suspensions and come equipped with knobby tread tires. If you want to give your truck better on-road manners, consider a set of Michelin LTX M/S2 tires.

Michelin has built a reputation for providing quiet and comfortable tires for passenger cars, as well as durable tires for commercial vehicles. They have used this experience to combine both attributes into their light truck tires, including their newest Highway All-Season tire, the LTX M/S2.

The LTX M/S2 features a symmetric tread design and a long wearing, silica-enhanced, all-season compound to provide a smooth, quiet ride with year-round traction in dry, wet and light snow conditions. With over seven million miles of reported use by our customers, the M/S2 has received high marks for ride and noise comfort. Currently, the tire is ranked second in our Tire Survey Results.

Take a look at what some of our customers are saying about their experience with the Michelin LTX M/S2:

"Best tires ever purchased. On my third set and would buy again whenever possible." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2004 GMC Yukon Denali

"As I write this review, I am in the process of ordering a second set of the Michelin LTX M/S2, P275/65R-18 for my Tundra Crewmax. I have 56,000 miles on my old set and probably have another 5,000 or more on the tires (I drive a great deal of highway miles for work). Proper tire rotation has left me with very even wear. They are getting down there, so I want to stage the next set for replacement. Highly recommended tire!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2008 Toyota Tundra

"This is the best set of tires we have ever owned. These Michelins are on my wife's Honda Pilot and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. They effortlessly handle our winter and the treadlife is outstanding. After witnessing the performance of these tires, I switched the tires on my Toyota to Michelins as well." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2004 Honda Pilot EX

For the quietest and most durable light truck tire on the market, it's tough to beat Michelin's LTX M/S2. Shop by vehicle to see if the LTX M/S2 is available for your application.

How Old Are My Tires? We Can Help You Find Out!

Friday, April 19, 2013 by Doc Horvath

If you need to find out how old your current tires are, start by reading its Tire Identification Number (often referred to as the tire’s serial number). Unlike vehicle identification numbers (VINs), Tire Identification Numbers are actually production codes that identify the week and year the tire was manufactured. 

Since 2000, the week and year the tire was produced has been provided by the last four digits of the Tire Identification Number. The first two digits being used to identify the week, while the last two digits tell the year.

Example of a tire manufactured since 2000 with the current Tire Identification Number format:

Tire Identification Numbers for tires produced prior to 2000 were based on the assumption that tires would not be in service for ten years. While they were required to provide the same information as today’s tires, the week and year the tire was produced was contained in the last three digits. The first two digits were used to identify the week a tire was manufactured, immediately followed by a single digit to identify the year.

While a tire might look like it has quite a bit of life left in it based on a visual inspection of the sidewalls and tread depth, it's important to keep the age of the tire in mind when considering the best time to replace your tires. For help on determining when the right time is to start shopping for new tires, read "When Should I Replace My Tires?"

BFGoodrich Brings Back Classic Red Line Tire for New Camaro and Challenger

Thursday, March 28, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Do you own a new Camaro or Challenger with 18" wheels? We've just received our first batch of 245/55R18 BFGoodrich Radial T/A Spec tires with the famous red stripe! This size is standard on LS and most LT Chevrolet Camaros and will also work on the Dodge Challenger equipped with factory 18" wheels. The 1/4" wide stripe recalls the muscle car days of the late sixties when similar tires were a factory option. The tire is being used by Hurst on their limited Redline Edition Camaro. 

With a 102T service description, the Radial T/A Spec is designed to provide a comfortable and quiet ride for cruising around town, while the 245/55R18 sidewall height provides plenty of cushion. While not a high performance tire intended for the track, it does provide plenty of wet and dry grip for the occasional enthusiastic drive. Take a look at what our customers are saying about their experience with the BFGoodrich Radial T/A Spec:

"This is the most comfortable tire I have run in an 18". It has a level of comfort and still lets you feel like you're in a sports car without cringing every time you hit a bump. The tire holds the car out of the hole and exceeded my expectations in the corners. You get a lot more than you pay for!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2012 Chevrolet Camaro LS

"These tires well exceeded my expectations. This is an excellent tire and I will definitely buy it again." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2011 Chevrolet Camaro LT

"This is a phenomenal tire. I can't believe they can make a tire this good for such a great price. Probably the best tire I have owned." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2011 Chevrolet Camaro LS

Our customer's feedback is a great tool to use when shopping as it'll help you with input from other drivers and their long term experience with each tire.

While we won't see the red line option in other sizes soon, availability of the 245/55R18 size is limited. If you have a new Camaro or Challenger with 18" wheels, consider the BFGoodrich Radial T/A Spec.

Can't Get Enough Tire Rack? Check Out Our Video Center!

Tuesday, March 26, 2013 by Doc Horvath

When you head over to our site to search for your favorite products, don't miss out on all the exciting video content we have! Through our Video Center and YouTube channel, enthusiasts can get a behind the scenes look at our tire tests from our home track in Indiana to more exotic locations like northern Sweden.

We also have detailed video demonstrations that help explain the benefits and use of a wide range of products from AIRRAID filters to Hypertech Power Programmers to KW coilovers and more. Take a look:

After watching one of our tire's test reports, you can link back to the Tire Test Results to read a complete recap with data to help you choose the best tire for how and where you drive. Visit our Video Center to view a test report or product overview to better help you make the best purchase for your vehicle.

Warmer Weather is Coming - Time for a New Ultra High Performance All-Season Tire

Thursday, March 21, 2013 by Doc Horvath

With the snow melting in most of the country, driving enthusiasts are looking forward to a spring and summer of high performance driving fun. For those on a budget, there's a great selection of Ultra High Performance All-Season tires, including the Pirelli P Zero Nero All Season. The tire is currently ranked sixth in our Tire Survey Results.

Our extensive Real World Road Ride and test track have always separated the contenders from the pretenders. A couple years ago we tested the Pirelli against the Dunlop SP Sport Signature, Sumitomo HTR A/S P01 and Yokohama AVID ENVigor with the P Zero Nero All Season delivering the quickest and most direct-feeling steering of the group. The Yokohama AVID ENVigor and Dunlop SP Sport Signature followed, with Sumitomo's HTR A/S P01 right behind. All three options exhibited an excellent direct steering feel. Overall noise levels for all four tires were similar, with all producing some amount of tread pattern hum. The AVID ENVigor generated a small ringing tone when it encountered sharp impacts on the highway, and the HTR A/S P01 produced a little more tread noise than the rest.

On the track in dry conditions, the Pirelli P Zero Nero All Season had the quickest overall lap time with its very quick steering response and good overall grip. Dunlop's SP Sport Signature followed with plenty of cornering traction and similar predictable handling. The Yokohama and Sumitomo repeated their standings as before. In the wet, the SP Sport Signature was fastest, thanks to its responsive steering and good ultimate grip, especially under braking.

If you're in the market for new Ultra High Performance All-Season tires, read "Finding the 'Ultra' in Ultra High Performance All-Season Tires" before making your selection.

Upgrade Your Brakes with G2's Brake Caliper PaintSystem Set

Tuesday, March 19, 2013 by Doc Horvath

As your vehicle piles on the miles, normal wear and tear can cause your car to look a little tired. For many, a brand new set of aftermarket wheels is the way to give your car a fresh appearance. However, what if a new set of wheels isn't in your budget? To spruce things up, consider the G2 Brake Caliper PaintSystem Set as an easy weekend project. A fresh coat of paint can give a new appearance to any vehicle's brake calipers and drums, while even helping protect them from potentially harmful oils, chemicals and rust.

The PaintSystem Sets are available in nine high-gloss, wear-resistant colors that can be selected to complement or contrast a vehicle's primary and/or accent colors. Available colors include: red, yellow, blue, silver, gold, black, purple, green, white, pink and orange.

G2 PaintSystem Sets provide enough materials to paint four brake calipers or two brake calipers and two brake drums. However, vehicles with large brake calipers on the front axle and large brake drums on the rear axle may require two complete PaintSystem Sets to get the job done. The finish is heat resistant to 950º F and best yet, the two-part system does not require caliper removal.

G2 Brake Caliper PaintSystem Sets Include:

  • Detailed instructions
  • (14 oz.) aerosol can G2 BRAKE Cleaner Spray (1)
  • (4 oz.) metal can Brake Caliper Paint (1)
  • (1 oz.) glass jar PaintSystem Reactor (1)
  • Stir stick
  • Application brush (1)
  • Color decal (1)

Order a G2 Brake Caliper PaintSystem Set today!

Tire Rack Now Offers Stud Conversion Kits for Your BMW

Wednesday, March 13, 2013 by Doc Horvath

For the enthusiast who takes his/her BMW to the track on a regular basis, using the Original Equipment lug bolts can prove to be cumbersome when removing or replacing wheels frequently. In an effort to support our friends that autocross or race their cars at any level, Tire Rack is proud to offer stud conversion kits for your BMW using 14x1.25 thread pitch studs. The standard kit comes with 20 studs, 20 black lug nuts and a heavy-duty thin wall socket (19mm). The premium kit substitutes the black nuts for a more unique polar light finish. All studs are zinc coated for durability. The 14x1.25 thread pitch reduces the chances of cross threading the lugs over repeated use.

BMW Stud Kit with 14x1.25 Studs and Black Lug Nuts
BMW Stud Kit with 14x1.25 Studs and Black
Lug Nuts
BMW Stud Kit with 14x1.25 Studs and Polar Light Lug Nuts
BMW Stud Kit with 14x1.25 Studs and Polar
Light Lug Nuts


Stud kits aren't just for enthusiasts. They are also used by BMW owners that want to make changing their wheels and tires easier. For the ultimate addition, consider picking up Tire Rack's Cordless Impact Wrench Kit. Whether you're track side or in your garage, this heavy-duty tool generates nearly 206 ft. lb. of torque (enough to break free most bolts or stubborn lug nuts).

Look at the tools we carry to find one that'll be a great addition to your garage!

Can I Pick-Up My Tires at Tire Rack? You Sure Can!

Thursday, February 28, 2013 by Doc Horvath

In most cases, Tire Rack can ship your order within the continental United States via UPS or FedEx with arrival within one to two business days. While this is the option many of customers use, what happens if you live near one of our distribution centers? If one of the following locations is close to your home, we can arrange for you to pick-up your order:

  1. Windsor, Connecticut
  2. Midway, Georgia
  3. South Bend, Indiana
  4. Shreveport, Louisiana
  5. McCarran, Nevada

Customer pick-up is available at these locations only on orders placed via telephone. When picking up your order, also consider the following information:

  • The credit card will be charged at time of pick-up.
  • Credit card holders must be present and show the credit card used to pay for the order at time of pick-up.
  • Additional photo ID is also required.

Our Indiana location is the only distribution center where installation is available. We recommend calling in advance for an appointment.

Find the tire that's right for your vehicle and give us a call to schedule your pick-up today!

 

 

Hotchkis Introduces New Line of Wheels for Modern Muscle Cars

Friday, February 22, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Hotchkis has been well known as a manufacturer of performance-oriented suspension products for a variety of vehicles for many years. Building on their knowledge and quality reputation, Hotchkis is proud to offer a new line of performance wheels available in 20" sizes to fit modern Mustangs, Camaros, Challengers and more.

The H-Sport model features a unique multi-spoke design in both a black and silver painted finish that's available in staggered widths to give you the option of a wider rear tire for that classic muscle car look. All Hotchkis wheels are machined to accept the factory tire pressure sensors. We also offer new sensors for sale if your vehicle requires.

S-Sport wheels have a more traditional five-spoke design meant to show off your brake calipers. They also feature a brushed aluminum face with either a silver or black accent for the barrel and center sections of the wheel. All Hotchkis wheels have multiple layers of clearcoat paint to protect the brushed aluminum from pitting under their one-year limited warranty.

Hotchkis' Y-Sport has the more modern split-spoke look associated with European sport sedans and coupes. The wheel is available in a matte graphite silver finish with or without the brushed aluminum face. Like the other models, the Y-Sport comes complete with all new lug nuts and center caps at no charge for a complete and hassle-free install. 

Hotchkis H-Sport
Hotchkis H-Sport
Hotchkis S-Sport
Hotchkis S-Sport
Hotchkis Y-Sport
Hotchkis Y-Sport


Take a look at all the Hotchkis wheels available and find one that's right for your vehicle.

Do You Love the Folks at Tire Rack? Why Not Dress Like Them?

Thursday, February 21, 2013 by Doc Horvath

With over thirty years in the business, Tire Rack has been the best source for tires, suspension and brake components for everything from track cars to daily drivers. Along the way, we've made a lot of friends and gained some fans like those that follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. If you're looking to show your support at an entire differeny level, be sure to check out our line of apparel! Going beyond the traditional hat and t-shirt, we offer a great selection of polos, pullovers, cycling jerseys and more.

Our cycling and running jerseys are from 100% polyester and wick away moisture to help keep you dry, cool and comfortable. Available in different colors, choose the option that's right for you.

Tire Rack's Sport-Tek 1/4-Zip Sweatshirts feature a cotton/polyester blend that'll keep you warm for those chilly mornings at the track. It features rib knit cuffs and waistband for comfort and durability. Our logo is embroidered and the material is designed to minimize shrinking after repeated washings. 

Take a look at our full line of apparel.

Hankook's Ventus R-S3 Brings Competition Tire Grip to the Street

Tuesday, February 12, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Hankook's Ventus R-S3 provides an affordable street tire that best mimics the grip of a racing slick intended for the track. The R-S3 entered a very competitive group of Extreme Performance Summer tires dominated by the Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 and the Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec, both of which are considered excellent dual purpose tires for performance street and occasional track / autocross use. We had the opportunity to compare the Hankook against both these tires, as well as the Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08 and Kumho Ecsta XS on our test track. Results were published in the August 2011 issue of Grassroots Motorsports Magazine. During this test, the R-S3 shaved nearly a full second off the Dunlop's lap time and came in quicker than the Bridgestone, too! Our tester remarked: "The tire inspires confidence from the first turn of the steering wheel, making it easy to attack the course's elements."

Our extensive Tire Survey Results put the Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 just slightly ahead of the Hankook in cornering stability and hydroplaning resistance. With that said, customers really like this tire and have spoken with high praise for this Hankook and say they would buy this tire again!

"I love this tire. I bought it mostly for autocross use. However, I have driven quite a few highway miles now and have had no problems. I'd say this is one of the best performance tires you can buy, especially for the price. Needless to say, I'll be buying another set when the time comes." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2002 Honda S2000

"I purchased this tire for mainly track use and it did not disappoint. The traction was great when accelerating, cornering and braking. I have just purchased another set for my TT. Excellent value!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2007 BMW Z4 M Coupe

Do you want to see if the Hankook Ventus RS-3 is available for sports car, sports coupe or performance sedan? Then shop by vehicle!

Winter Driving Tips from the Experts at Bridgestone

Wednesday, January 30, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Recently, I returned from a two-day training session at Bridgestone's Winter Driving School in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Having grown up in the Midwest and driven through many winters, I thought I knew pretty much all I needed to know in terms of safe winter driving habits. Like anything else, there's always more to learn! Using several purpose-built tracks that have a variety of elevation changes and turns, the expert instructors put me through a variety of exercises in both front-wheel (using Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 tires) and all-wheel-drive vehicles (using Blizzak DM-V1 winter tires). 

The Blizzak WS70 features Bridgestone's most aggressive Tube Multicell compound to offer the drivers of coupes, sedans, minivans and crossover vehicles the best ice traction. This fourth generation of Bridgestone WinterBiter tire is designed to deliver wintertime traction and control that inspires driver confidence. They were installed on the school's fleet of Lexus ES 350 sedans and proved to make the most of the car's front-wheel-drive system and lighter weight.

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 tires use a Multicell Z compound that features microscopic bubbles and tubes to absorb the thin film of water that forms as tires run over packed snow and ice. Designed for pickups, crossovers and sport utility vehicles, the tire focuses on ice traction and braking, as well as wet road handling and hydroplaning resistance to provide winter tire driving competence. Installed on a Lexus GX 460, the Blizzak DM-V1 provided a real solid feel in cornering despite the vehicle's high center of gravity.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS70
Bridgestone Blizzak WS70
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1


The intent was not only to highlight the enhanced traction that winter / snow tires provide, but also show us some basic, and often overlooked tools to make us better drivers in winter conditions. Of the multitude of exercises we performed, the key lesson I took away from the school was to always pay constant attention to availability of grip and modify your driving to utilize what grip you have to maximize braking and modulate speed. Too much of either can spell disaster when the grip disappears.

For more information on the Bridgestone Winter Driving School, read "Winter Driving Tips."

Designed for Your Light-Duty or Heavy-Duty Truck, WORX Wheels Impress!

Friday, January 25, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Whether you own a standard Ford F-150 for running errands or a Chevy 3500 Dually for heavy hauling, the new line of wheels from WORX has something to offer. With choices available in finishes such as black with spot milling, chrome plated and bright PVD, WORX provides different options for light trucks and SUVs. Guaranteed fitments ranging between 18" and 20" diameters with some models available in 16" and 17" diameters offers drivers multiple sizing options. 

A few models, such as the Havoc, feature an innovative spot milling manufacturing technique that allows the wheel to show small windows or accent areas that are machined to reveal the bright aluminum hidden under the black paint. After the process, the wheel gets a layer of clearcoat paint for protection. 

The most impressive wheel to me in the lineup is the Triad. It's available to fit many popular applications on the road today. There's even a model that's perfectly designed for dually trucks. A unique three-spoke design provides the same load capacity as a conventional wheel, therefore strength will never be a concern. All WORX wheels are covered by a lifetime structural warranty.

It's a safe bet that you won't see wheels similar to these any time soon! Check out the full line of WORX wheels to see which one is the right fit for your vehicle.

We Can Tell You How Winter / Snow Tires Perform without Snow

Thursday, January 17, 2013 by Doc Horvath

For many parts of the United States, winter snowfalls have been becoming more and more sporadic. This leaves long periods of cold with little to no accumulation of snow on the ground. While an all-season capable tire may be fine for these conditions, they could never hold a candle to the deep snow and ice traction that a dedicated winter / snow tire can provide. Most drivers with snow tires have found themselves doing more "clear road" driving than ever before given recent weather patterns. Which leads to a growing concern of how well snow tires perform even without snow on the ground? We always include dedicated snow tires in our annual Real World Road Rides for a better overall picture of what they can do in all winter conditions.

Our most recent test included the following dedicated winter / snow tires;

By a noticeable margin, the Michelin tire provided less road noise and better handling characteristics with only a small penalty in ride comfort. When it came to ride comfort, the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 held a small advantage. It appeared to do a slightly better job of rounding over the sharp edge of most impacts. The X-Ice Xi3 and ExtremeWinterContact did the best job of minimizing compromises, and they felt more like typical all-season tires than the other competitors.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS70
Bridgestone Blizzak
WS70
Continental ExtremeWinterContact
Continental
ExtremeWinterContact
Michelin X-Ice Xi3
Michelin X-Ice
Xi3


For a complete recap of our test, read "Testing the Newest Studless Ice & Snow Winter Tires."

I Feel a Vibration from My Tires, What Should I Do?

Friday, January 11, 2013 by Doc Horvath

Do you ever notice a vibration (typically through the steering wheel or coming from the front of the car) after installing new tires or getting a tire rotation? A vibration at any speed indicates there's a problem. Naturally, it's something that needs to be addressed right away. A quick check of a few key areas will help determine what to do.

As soon as possible, use the vehicle's lug wrench to ensure all lug nuts are tight. The car manufacturer requires a specific torque (a unit of measure for how tightly the lug nuts are installed) for your vehicle, but a quick check to see if all lug nuts require the same amount of strength to tighten is a good first step. Mistakes are unavoidable, and if the installer didn't double check his/her work, this can be a quick fix. You can always go back to the installer once everything is tightened to have them triple check the torque.

The installer can get the vehicle back in the air and check for an improperly installed centering ring, missing balancing weight or other issues. If nothing seems amiss, the tires and wheels can be removed and put back on the balancing machine to check both of them for issues.

If the tires are worn and were recently rotated, one pair of tires may have had an existing problem that wasn't as noticeable with the tires in a different position on the car. Most garages will mention any wear issues like these to you before letting you leave, but a double check never hurts.

Finally, a quick check of your tire pressure may shed some light on the issue, so never rule anything out. Remember that any reputable shop will be happy to fix any problems that result from their work, so don't be afraid to give them a call with concerns.

To diagnose a vibration problem, view "Vibration Diagnosis Flow Chart."

Alternate 19" Tire Sizing for Dodge Journey Now Available

Friday, January 4, 2013 by Doc Horvath

While the new Dodge Journey has been well received, one thing that hasn't been popular is the optional 19" tire size that comes equipped on many of the vehicles. While the Original Equipment options have done well, many Journey owners have been left wanting more. 

In the 225/55R19 size, we recently added the Goodyear Assurance CS Fuel Max. It's designed to provide year-round, all-season traction in dry, wet and wintry conditions, including light snow, as well as offer reduced rolling resistance to enhance vehicle fuel economy over the tire's lifetime. The tire comes with a 65,000 mile treadlife warranty.

We also know the slightly wider 235/55R19 to fit many of the Original Equipment wheels. 235/55R19 is 0.4" taller (overall) and 0.2" wider at the contact patch, for a mere 1.4% difference in diameter compared to the Original Equipment. 

The 235/55R19 size offers a full complement of all-season tires primarily for crossovers and SUVs that offer long life and a comfortable, quiet ride. Best sellers to consider are the Bridgestone Dueler H/L 422 Ecopia and Yokohama Parada Spec-X.

Goodyear Assurance CS Fuel Max
Goodyear Assurance CS Fuel
Max
Bridgestone Dueler H/L 422 Ecopia
Bridgestone Dueler H/L 422
Ecopia
Yokohama Parada Spec-X
Yokohama Parada
Spec-X


Like the Assurance CS Fuel Max, Bridgestone's Dueler H/L 422 Ecopia helps enhance fuel economy by reducing tire rolling resistance. Combining year-round traction, handing and comfort, the tire is also developed for drivers of sport utility vehicles. We tested the Bridgestone and Goodyear options against a third tire and the results can be found by reading "Testing Eco-Focused Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season Tires."

The Yokohama Parada Spec-X features a more aggressive directional tread design aimed at drivers that are willing to sacrifice some durability for enhanced wet traction at higher speeds. This Street/Sport Truck All-Season tire is currently ranked number one in our Tire Survey Results. Customers give the tire high marks in many categories, including dry traction, cornering stability and ride comfort.

To find all tire options that are a match for your Dodge Journey, shop by vehicle.

Hurst Gives Your New Mustang or Camaro That Old School Look with the Shaker

Friday, December 28, 2012 by Doc Horvath

Ever since Detroit restarted the muscle car war with the new Camaro and Mustang, many people have looked to give these vehicles a retro look with classic five-spoke wheels. In an effort to mix old school looks with modern finishes, Hurst has introduced the Shaker in 20" staggered width fitments for both vehicles. The wheel is also a fit for the following applications:

  • Pontiac G8
  • Chrysler 300
  • Dodge Charger
  • Dodge Magnum
Hurst Shaker
Hurst Shaker
Hurst Shaker
Hurst Shaker


Shaker wheels retain the classic five-spoke design with an innovative design that allows the owner to use either black or gold inserts in the center of the spokes to personalize the application. The inner barrel and sides of the spokes are painted black and clearcoated to hide brake dust, while the edges of the spokes are machined to expose brushed aluminum underneath for contrast. Available in both 20x8.5 and 20x10 sizes, the Shaker wheel is perfect for either a square set-up with the 8.5" wide wheel on all four corners or a mix of the two widths to put the wider tires and wheels on the back axle only. 

To see if the Shaker is a fit your vehicle, visit our Upgrade Garage.

How Can I Tell if a Smaller Wheel Will Fit My Car?

Friday, December 21, 2012 by Doc Horvath

For Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages, it's often beneficial to use a smaller diameter wheel (combined with a taller profile tire) compared to your stock wheels. In many cases, an expensive, low profile tire size and wheel combination can be substituted with a more cost-effective tire and wheel set that'll also afford added sidewall height to minimize pothole damage. With more and more vehicles coming standard with 19" and 20" wheels and tires, "minus sizing" has become very popular. 

How do we know which wheels will fit your vehicle? By measuring your vehicle's critical components with sophisticated electronic tools that allows our fitment engineers to create accurate drawings of these parts. This also helps us check for any interferences. Items we measure or verify during the process include:

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

Once a wheel is guaranteed, we can develop the corresponding tire size that will both maintain proper load capacity and overall diameter for accuracy of the vehicle's electronic instrumentation and safety systems. Proper fitment engineering allows us to offer Tire & Wheel Packages that are specifically designed for your vehicle. Our attention to detail prevents vibration, wheel/tire interference and unbalanced handling that can result from improperly designed packages.

For further information on how we verify what wheels are a match for your vehicle, read "How We Know What Fits."