Most vehicle owners have been there: you need two (or more) new tyres and know it’s going to cost a lot. Then you’re faced with the decision: do you opt for the unbranded, budget tyres or do you choose the premium, branded alternative, with a price-tag to match? The assumption is usually that premium tyres will last longer. But we take a look at the facts.
The right tyres, and the best value for you, will depend on your mileage and the conditions that you drive in.
Premium tyres
Premium tyres are undoubtedly costly, and can cost up to twice as much as their budget counterparts. However, when you buy premium tyres, you’re not just buying a lump of black rubber, you are buying decades of research into tyre technology, safety and engineering. This makes premium bands safe and durable; in fact research shows that premium tyres are far better than the cheaper alternatives when it comes to wear, fuel efficiency and grip.
If you travel at speed a lot, for example on motorways, or if you do high mileage, premium tyres may well be better value for you in the long term.
Mid-range tyres
Middle-of-the-road tyres, if you will excuse the pun, are somewhere between the big-hitters and their budget cousins. Often, mid-range tyres are manufactured by the same companies as premium ones, but bear a different brand name. They are, as you might assume, a good compromise.
If you don’t do huge mileage and are a moderate driver, mid-range brands are probably fine for you: you will benefit from the same technology as the high-end brands, without the high-end cost.
Budget tyres
At the bottom of the pile, we have budget tyres. Is it true that you get what you pay for? Or is it possible that, over time, budget tyres are better value for money? The answer really depends on your use and if you don’t expect premium performance, budget tyres may well be suitable for you.
If you are buying new tyres for a second car, if you only cover low mileage each year, or if you drive in speed-restricted areas, budget tyres will probably be adequate for you.
The art of a reliable trader is not in telling you to buy the most expensive of everything, but in asking the right questions so that they can advise you on what is safest and best value for your needs. Don’t trust anyone; find a tyre specialist on Trust A Garage who will help recommend the best tyres to keep you safe on the roads, without spending money unnecessarily.
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