Car tyre types explained

Summer, winter, performance, off-road, all-terrain — there’s so many car tyre types. But which is the best for your car and driving experience? If you’re after new tyres, this guide will help you learn which types of car tyre you should look at for your car, climate and performance needs. You’ll discover how tyres are classified, the most common, general tyres people use and other handy info about selecting new tyres.

How are car tyres classified?

Car tyres can be classified by their tread, purpose, construction or use. The most common way tyres are classified is by their purpose, such as for light-vehicle or off-road. Tread patterns can also be used to find the right tyre for a specific use, such as deeper tread patterns for off-road purposes. Tyre construction and whether the tyres are radial or bias ply is also important for ensuring you get the right tyre for your car. There may also be special use classifications for tyres, such as for summer, winter, wet weather, slicks and high speeds.

What is the most common type of tyre?

Radial tyres are one of the most common types of car tyres in Australia. They’re known to be long-lasting and more puncture resistant with good grip, providing more handling and stability on the road. Drivers also note a smoother, more comfortable drive. Radial tyres are highly recommended for high-performance cars and SUVs, as well as being appropriate for standard light vehicles.

What's the difference between a radial and bias tyre?

The main difference between radial and bias tyres is their belt construction and cord material. Radial tyres have a sidewall running straight up and down, made from a single layer of steel cord ply, which runs at a 90-degree angle to the centreline of the tyre. Bias ply tyres have a diagonally running side wall from bead to bead, with multiple layers of rubber-coated fabric pliers running at an angle and to the centreline of the tyre. Whether you need bias or radial types of tyres for car wheels depends on how old your car is and how you’ll be using your car.

What are the different types of tyres for cars?

There are many different tyre types you can select from depending on the season, road surface and even how you’ll be driving, such as performance driving.

You’ll find high-profile and low-profile tyre types to suit different road surfaces and speeds, as well as summer, winter and all-season tyres, off-road tyres and more for all needs. For car enthusiasts, there are also all-purpose touring tyres, performance tyres, and green tyres, made from sustainable materials.

How do I know what tyre type my car needs?

You can find what tyre type and size you need by checking your car’s owner manual or the tyre placard or sticker fitted to your car. You’ll be able to find your rim and tyre size, ideal cold pressure tyre and any other information you need about fitting new tyres. If you’re ever in doubt, you can also call the team at mycar who can steer you in the right direction.

Do off road tyres make a difference?

Off-road tyres, such as all terrain tyres and mud terrain tyres, are made to withstand rough conditions if you drive off of road surfaces, such as on sand or dirt. If you know you’ll be heading to a very wet, muddy track or area, mud terrain tyres will help give you extra grip and performance. All terrain tyres are ideal if you use your four-wheel drive or vehicle on standard roads during the week and head off-road on the weekends, giving you both performance and comfort.

What are high performance tyres?

High-performance tyres have been specifically made to increase grip and handling response while driving at high speeds. They’re the most common and recommended car tyre types for sports and performance cars, designed for warmer climates. While they’re most often thought of as race car tyres, their softer rubber and more rigid side walls will give anyone more traction driving at higher speeds.

Is it worth buying a winter tyre?

You only need winter tyres in Australia if you live where it falls below 7 degrees celsius. Winter tyres are designed to provide added grip, with a softer surface to give you flexibility in snowy and icy conditions. For most Australians, you don’t need a winter tyre as it doesn’t typically snow in most areas.

Should I switch to a summer tyre?

Summer tyres are a good choice for people who need to change to winter tyres, or who live in very hot climates. If you’ll be driving on hot roads with temperatures about 30 degree celsius, you may be recommended summer tyres. For those with summer tyres, it’s important to remember you shouldn’t drive through snow or on icy roads with them as it can be very dangerous.

Do you need all season tyres in Australia?

All season tyres are a good option for car owners in Australia. They can handle hot and cold climates, as well as very light snow and ice. Unless you live in a climate with drastic weather change or conditions, such as where it snows, an all season tyre is likely your best option.

Still not sure? Drop into mycar for help

Selecting tyres can be tricky, and that’s why our expert team at mycar are here to help. We can advise the best tyres for you and your car, fit new tyres, fix punctures, and we stock a wide range of high-quality tyres to suit all needs. With more than 275 stores throughout Australia, we always have the tyres you need in-stock and ready to go, helping you get back on the road sooner. Plus, you receive our workmanship guarantee on all tyre services, and receive our complimentary tyre care plan, with free* puncture repairs and 12-month* road hazard warranty.

Read more about caring for your tyres or take a look at our tyre range today!