The boss of Continental Tyres Ireland has appealed to motorists to make sure they use the correct tyres for the kind of driving they do, especially if they drive SUVs, writes Brian Byrne.
Noting that SUV-type cars have come to dominate the motoring market over the last decade and more, Tom Dennigan said owners need to pay special attention when replacing their tyres on vehicles that are generally heavier than saloon or hatchback vehicles.
He says that most small and medium SUV type cars will come originally with summer tyres because their owners are driving all the time on standard tarmac roads. "Larger SUVs and 4x4s may well come with tyres that have a degree of off-road and/or all-season capability," he adds. "If you regularly use off-road tyres on tarmac, you might be in for a hard, noisy ride. And vice versa – use on-road tyres on irregular terrain, and you’re likely to struggle for grip. Get it right though, and you’ll enjoy the best experience at the wheel of your SUV."
Continental has put together a checklist to run through when you’re thinking about tyres for your SUV.
* Is it electric, hybrid or does it have a traditional combustion engine?
* How powerful is it?
* How large and heavy is it?
* Do you often tow heavy loads?
* Is it an AWD (all-wheel drive), 4WD (four-wheel drive/4X4/four-by-four) or 2WD (two-wheel drive)?
* Do you often face tough conditions like gravel, mud, snow, and steep inclines?
* And will you use it in the city or suburban areas?
Continental has developed tyres to suit each of those conditions, and also where there's a mix of driving conditions. When it comes to changing your tyres, especially now with winter here, do discuss with and take the advice of an expert, your dedicated tyre dealer.
