Tire Buying Guide

Tire Types

Tire Types

Understanding all the different tire types can be overwhelming. Lets break them down so you know what to look for.

Understanding all the different tire types can be overwhelming. Lets break them down so you know what to look for.

A Belle Tire salesman in a blue shirt is holding a tire he got off a tire rack at the Belle Tire store.

Most common tire types

  • michelin primacy tour a s bw
    All season tires (Car)

    This is the do-it-all tire. A middle ground between a summer and winter tire, you get a compound that grips enough for normal conditions, but still offers some traction for driving in mild snowfall.

  • Mastercraft courser hsx tour bw
    All season tires (Truck/SUV)

    Much like their car counterparts, these tires are made to be used year-round, but are specifically made for pickup trucks and SUVs. These tires are built to offer great grip on the road and even some good off-road traction, provided the conditions aren’t too extreme.

  • Goodyear Assurance Weatherready
    All weather tires

    It might sound like just another name for “all season”, but these tires are made to excel in more harsh winter conditions. They can provide traction in severe snow and ice while still rivaling all season tires in more mild weather. Plus, their tread life is much longer than traditional winter/snow tires.

  • Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S
    Performance tires

    If you’re after precision handling and great traction in wet and dry conditions, look no further. These tires are made for use during the warmer months, or year-round if you live somewhere that doesn’t see cold or wintery conditions.

  • All terrain4
    All terrain tires

    Versatility is the name of the game. If your treks take you off of the pavement and onto some dirt, rock, gravel or mud, these tires have you covered. Get good, predictable grip on the street and confidence-inspiring traction on the soil.

  • Michelin X-ice
    Winter tires

    These are built for treacherous conditions. If you’re headed out in heavy snow or live where the temperatures frequently drop into the 30s, be sure you’re rolling on winter tires. Better skid control, superior traction and increased stability are just a few of the benefits.

  • Birdgestone Drivegaurd
    Run Flat tires

    When the unexpected happens, it’s nice to have some backup. These tires are built to keep rolling for up to 50 miles at 50 mph with little or no air pressure. A must-have for cars that didn’t come with room for a spare, or if you just don’t want to deal with changing a flat on the side of a busy highway. 

  • BFGoodrich Mud Terrain T:A KM3
    Mud terrain tires

    The name says it all. These tires are made to get down and dirty. Head off-road and into wet, dirty or muddy conditions while still maintaining traction. These beefy treads are constructed to keep you solidly connected to the earth no matter what gets in your way.

What are the differences between all-season and winter tires?What are the differences between all-season and winter tires?

All-season versus Winter tires

All-season versus Winter tires

What exactly are the differences and why it's important to know.

What exactly are the differences and why it's important to know.

Frequently asked questions

  • Tire Blue2
    How can I make my money go farther?

    A first glance, it might seem like the best value tire is the one that costs less. But instead of looking at up-front costs, it might be worth looking at the cost over time. When we break down the cost-per-mile, a higher quality tire might end up being the better value. Not to mention improved ride quality, superior handling and enhanced safety. Depending on your driving habits, spending a bit more now could save you money down the road.

  • Bald tire blue
    When should I replace my tires?

    Knowing when to replace your tires boils down to two simple words: safety first. Keeping track of your tread depth and the age of the tire are two important factors in determining if they’re still safe and road-ready. 

  • Tire types Blue
    Understanding the differences between tire types

    All season, winter, all-terrian? Knowing and understanding the differences between tire types can help you choose the right set of tires.

Your one-stop-explanation-shop!

We know buying tires and servicing your vehicle can be overwhelming and darn right confusing. That's why we've assembled all the information to help simplify tire selection, vehicle maintenance and repair.

  • tires on a rack
    Tire Buying Guide

    Choosing the right tire can be challenging. There’s a lot to consider before you buy, so let's make sure you are getting the right tire for your vehicle and your budget.

  • Oil Change 2 Spring
    Spring maintenance

    Extreme weather can take a severe toll on your vehicle. After this past winter, it’s wise to check out these essential services to make sure your car is safe and ready for spring.

  • Black tires are lined up in a row.
    Electric Vehicle Tires

    The right tires for your electric vehicle can optimize your car's performance and maximize your range. Check out the top factors to consider before choosing your tires for your EV.

  • Road trip-card sie
    Roadtrip tips

    The open road is calling. Before you answer, check out these helpful hints to make the journey more enjoyable.

  • Gas pump3
    Get more out of your gas tank

    With gas prices being high, a little bit of vehicle maintenance can go a long way in improving your gas mileage.

  • Michelin tire
    Protecting Your Tire Investment

    You want to get every possible mile out of your tires. We want to help you do it. 


  • bald tire
    Replacing Tires

    Knowing when to replace your tires boils down to two simple words: safety first. Keeping track of your tread depth and the age of the tire are two important factors in determining if they’re still safe and road-ready.


  • Rack of tires 2
    Tire Types

    Understanding all the different tire types can be overwhelming. Lets take a closer look to find the right tire for you.


  • Rack of tires
    Tire Sizes

    Before purchasing any tire, you need to be sure you’re getting the right size and type for your specific vehicle. Knowing how to find this important info and what it means will help you make the right call.


  • Tread pattern image
    Tread Patterns & Components

     Learning more about the various features of a tire’s construction can help you determine the perfect fit for your specific vehicle, driving style and surroundings.


  • A hand is using a tire pressure gauge to check the amount of air in a tire.
    Inspecting Your Tires

    A good rule of thumb is to inspect your tires once a month. When you bring out the gauge to check your tire pressures, it’s a good time to give the actual tires a checkup too.


  • Alignment spring
    Alignment

    Aligning your tires regularly helps reduce premature tread wear and improves gas mileage.


  • Tire pressure gauge closeup
    Tire Pressure

    Having your tires properly inflated is the fastest, simplest and cheapest way to make sure your vehicle is getting better gas mileage.


  • Brake inspection
    Brakes

    We offer free safety brake checks for everyone. Because keeping up with proper brake maintenance will save you money and keep you safer on the road.

  • Shocks struts card. imagepng
    Suspension

    Everyone wants a vehicle that drives smoothly and safely. Let’s explore the basics of your suspension system.

  • Tread depth check
    Tire Maintenance

    Regular tire maintenance is essential for getting the most out of your tire investment.


  • How long do batteries last 50/50
    Battery services

    Our friendly battery experts not only offer replacements and installments, but also free inspections.

  • TPMS icon
    Tire Pressure Monitor System TPMS

     If you see the TPMS icon illuminated, check the pressure in all four tires as soon as possible.


  • A side view of a black wheel rim that reads, “Motor City Customs”.
    Wheel Care

    Tires aren’t the only thing that keeps your vehicle rolling smoothly. Proper care for your wheels helps them last longer while making every trip safer.

  • Winter tire tread in snow
    Winter Maintenance Tips

    To truly enjoy this holiday season, keep your motorized sleigh running smoothly. Being stranded on an icy roadside is no one’s idea of a winter wonderland. Let’s take a look at some simple steps you can take right now.

  • Winter Mobile masthead
    Winter/Snow Tires

    If you’re considering winter tires, also known as snow tires, there are several things you should take into consideration. Here’s everything you need to know about winter tires and how to find a set that’s right for you.


You're covered with us!

  • ALIGNMENT SPRING 1
    A plan to protect your alignment

    Potholes, curbs and other road hazards are just waiting to mess with your wheels. After your next alignment at Belle Tire, an additional $35 gets you unlimited wheel alignments for the next 12 months. This helps protect your investment by getting every possible mile out of your tires (and saving you up to $144 during the year).

  • tires on a rack
    Industry-Leading Tire Protection Plan

    Belle Tire is ready to repair or replace your tire if it fails due to faulty workmanship or materials, or a non-repairable road hazard. This plan is good until the tire has 3/32 inch tread depth remaining, or 3 years from the date you bought it, whichever comes first. Just pay for it when you purchase the tire.

  • Tire install
    Tire Installation Package

    Our experts don’t just install your tires, we send you on your way with access to more free lifetime services than any of the so-called competition. Free lifetime alignment checks, tire rotations, spin balancing, flat repairs and more will help you get the maximum mileage out of your tires. 

Don’t keep your new tires waiting.

Don’t keep your new tires waiting.

We’ll help you find the perfect tires in a few steps.

We’ll help you find the perfect tires in a few steps.

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Michelin-Defender-4 tire