New tires: what reflexes to adopt after installation?
Why can new tires seem different?
A new tire has a deeper tread than a worn tire. The flexing of its rubber blocks can change the way the tire responds to steering. Even if the tread pattern remains the same, you can still feel a difference from the previous tire.
The acclimation period also corresponds to a period of adaptation for the driver. Avoid judging your new equipment based on a hard acceleration or a turn taken too quickly when exiting the garage.
Adopting a gentle approach from the outset
- Accelerate gradually and approach the turns without sudden movements.
- Anticipate your slowdowns and maintain a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front.
- Drive at a speed appropriate to the traffic and the road surface.
- If possible, start on dry roads; in the rain, be extra cautious.
These precautions should never prevent you from braking as much as necessary to avoid a danger. They apply to your normal driving behavior during take-over.
How many kilometers do you need to run on new tires?
There is no single mileage that applies to all cars and all tires. Recommendations may vary depending on the manufacturer and the vehicle. Please refer to your car's manual and ask the technician for the instructions applicable to your equipment.
Crossing a threshold does not justify a drastic change in driving behavior. Continue to take into account the weather, load, and your own feeling. Before leaving the workshop, a useful question is: «What precautions should I follow with this load?»
Check the pressure without improvising
New tires also need an appropriate pressure. Use the values specified by the manufacturer, usually indicated on a vehicle label or in its manual. These may vary depending on the load.
Check the cold pressure once a month and before a long journey. Do not try to change the inflation pressure to artificially recreate the sensations of your old tires. If a wheel is repeatedly requiring inflation, have it checked for the source of the air loss.
When should I return to the workshop?
A pronounced vibration, a car that pulls to one side, or unusual braking behavior deserve professional inspection. Do not automatically attribute them to wear and tear.
The professional will be able to examine the entire situation and determine whether an intervention on the balance, the geometry, or any other element is necessary. Describe precisely what you observe: at what speed, in what situation, and for how long. If the behavior compromises safety, stop the journey in a safe place and request assistance.
Two ranges to discover for your next change
If your replacement is still to be arranged, find these two winter ranges on Pneus Online. The choice must first correspond to your journeys and to the approved load capacity of your vehicle.
Winter tire
Pirelli Powergy 2 Winter
The Powergy winter range is available in your size, to prepare your next season's equipment.
Winter tire
Sailun Ice Blazer Alpine 2
Another winter range to compare based on your budget, your travel plans, and the specifications of the compatible model.
On the Auto Tires page, enter your dimensions and then search for the model. Check the load and speed indices, the required markings, the price, and the availability of the chosen version before ordering.
