Most drivers have an elementary understanding of tires and their role in optimizing vehicle safety and performance. But, when the rubber meets the road and it’s time to purchase a new set, the details get murky.  

While there’s plenty of information available to help drivers find the right tires for their cars, there are also several myths to contend with. We want to give you confidence during the purchase process and ensure you don’t fall victim to tire misinformation. This article explores some of the most common tire misconceptions and uncovers the truth.

Myth 1: All Tires Are Created Equal

If you’re the type who thinks “whatever’s cheapest” is the answer to your tire needs, it’s time to reconsider. One of the biggest misconceptions is that all tires are essentially the same in terms of durability, quality, and application.

While they may look similar, tires are specifically designed for different purposes and driving conditions. For example, high-performance tires offer enhanced handling and grip, while all-season tires perform well in a variety of weather conditions. Choosing the wrong type can compromise your vehicle’s safety and efficiency. When heading into your nearest Dobbs location to purchase a new set, speak with one of our expert and certified technicians to get the information you need to make the right decision.

Myth 2: You Only Need to Replace One or Two Tires at a Time

While it might be tempting to save money by only replacing the most worn tires, this strategy can create uneven traction and handling issues that cause more problems down the road.

In most cases, we recommend replacing all four tires at once to maintain optimal balance and performance. If replacing all four isn’t feasible, try to replace at least two and install them on the rear axle to enhance stability.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Worry About Tire Pressure Until It’s Low

Many drivers assume that if their tires aren’t significantly underinflated, there’s no need to prioritize filling them up. However, even slightly under-inflated tires can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, poor handling, and accelerated wear.

Regularly checking tire pressure and maintaining it at the manufacturer’s recommended levels will help prolong the life of your tires and keep your vehicle performing safely. Most modern cars display tire inflation levels on your dashboard, making it easy and convenient to stay on top of this routine maintenance task!

Myth 4: The Tread Is the Only Important Part of the Tire

While tread depth is crucial for maintaining traction, it’s not the only indicator of your tire’s overall condition. The tire’s age, internal structure, and rubber condition also significantly affect safety and performance.

Even if a tire still has adequate tread, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s in good condition, especially if it’s over six years old. Tires naturally degrade over time, so keep an eye on both the tread and the manufacturing date stamped on the sidewall. Driving with old tires can increase your risk of experiencing a malfunction on the road, compromising your safety.  

Myth 5: Expensive Tires Are Always Better

It’s easy to assume that the more you spend, the better the product you get. Although “you get what you pay for” is true in most cases, it isn’t always true for tires.

The best tire for your vehicle depends on your specific needs. An expensive performance tire might not be ideal if your primary concern is all-season versatility or a quiet, smooth ride. Focus on finding the tire engineered for your driving habits and the conditions you regularly encounter. If you need assistance during the purchasing process, the experts at one of our 40+ Dobbs locations throughout Greater St. Louis are always nearby and willing to help!  

Myth 6: Winter Tires Are Only Necessary in Heavy Snow

If you’re not regularly driving on snow-covered backroads, you probably don’t need winter tires, right? The answer isn’t so straightforward.

Winter tires are certainly effective for improving traction in snowy conditions, but they’re also designed to perform better in cold weather overall. Their specialized rubber compounds stay flexible in temperatures below 45°F, ensuring better grip even on cold, dry roads. However, in areas like St. Louis, where snowfall is relatively infrequent and temperatures often fluctuate, many drivers find all-weather tires to be a more practical choice. These versatile tires provide solid performance year-round, offering enough traction to handle the occasional snow while also excelling in the area’s milder winters.

Find the Right Tires and the Best Prices at Your Nearest Dobbs Location

Navigating the tire purchasing process can be confusing, but settling for the wrong set can cause headaches in the future. If you need help finding the ideal set for your car, our online tire selector tool makes it easy! Start by choosing a convenient Dobbs location, explore our vast inventory, and book your appointment. Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers is proud to offer an expanded tire inventory, ensuring we have the tire brand you want—and we back it with our lowest price in town guarantee. For nearly five decades, Dobbs has been the go-to resource for St. Louis drivers looking for quality tires at an affordable price. With 40+ locations (and counting), there’s always a Dobbs near you ready to serve!