What is the difference between a light truck tire and a regular tire?
Light truck or LT-metric tires have more rigid sidewalls and deeper treads than their P-metric counterparts. Their “heavier” construction also makes them superior for hauling heavy loads and navigating rough terrain. LT (Light Truck) tires generally have deeper treads than passenger car tires because they are designed to handle heavier loads and more severe driving conditions.Generally, light truck tires are ideal for vehicles that regularly carry heavy loads or trek across extreme terrain. Due to the stiff, multi-ply sidewalls, lt tires are resistant to flexing and punctures, making them ideal for an adventure rig, hunting truck, or heavy hauler.LT tires also have extra material in the sidewall and under the tread that protects the tire from damage. In the other hand, LT tires won’t ride as smooth, be as fuel efficient or last longer than a regular P-metric (Passenger)tire.Increased Wear and Tear on Vehicle Components If the tires are too large, they may rub against the wheel wells or fenders, damaging both the tire and the vehicle body. Incorrect tire sizes can also cause uneven wear on suspension parts and lead to premature failure of components like wheel bearings and axles.While they’re the perfect choice for the average vehicle, using passenger tires incorrectly can cause pretty serious issues. If used on a heavier vehicle, like ¾ or 1-ton truck, they won’t be able to support the weight of the vehicle, much less any additional load it might be carrying.
Do light truck tires last longer?
LT tires are generally more durable and built with stronger sidewallsds, making them more resistant to punctures and wear, especially under heavy loads or rough terrains. However, the longevity of any tire, whether P-metric or LT, depends on factors like driving habits, maintenance, load carried, and road conditions. Because of their stiffer sidewall, LT tires don’t absorb bumps very well, causing more vibrations and road noise, particularly in lighter trucks and SUVs. That’s why we typically only recommend using LT tires on larger trucks, SUVs and vans, or for use in off-road conditions.
What is the 3% tire rule?
As a general rule, you want replacement tires that are within 3 percent of the diameter (height) measurement of the tires originally on your vehicle. Generally, you don’t want to go with tires that have a diameter that is more than 3% different from the factory tires. It’s also a good idea to consult with a trusted mechanic before switching to larger or smaller tires.It is not recommended to fit new tyres with a lower speed rating to what is recommended for your vehicle. Whilst choosing to equip your car with a higher speed rating is safe, replacing your tyres with those of a lower speed rating will compromise the safety of your vehicle.
What is the 7 7 rule for tires?
So, when is the right time to swap? The rule of thumb is 7-for-7: wait until there are seven consistent days at 7 degrees Celsius. The reverse is also true for transitioning to winter. Ottawa’s CAA Members can avoid the tire swap lineups at on-site vendors and save money with our economical new Mobile Tire Change. The 7 7 rule for tires provides a simple temperature guideline for timing your seasonal tire changes. Install winter tires when daily temperatures drop to 7°C (45°F) or below for seven consecutive days. Remove them in spring after seven straight days above 7°C.