Introduction

One of the most common mistakes we as drivers make while selecting the tyres is the wrong tyre size. The wrong tyre size not only looks unattractive on your car, but can be dangerous too

From legal issues to driving instability, the wrong tyre size can have several implications that might result in severe hazards.

In this blog, we will discuss why tyre size matters, the dangers of the wrong tyre size, and how to ensure that you're getting the right size for your car.

Is It Safe To Use Different Tyre Sizes On Your Car?

Changing tyre sizes might seem harmless, particularly if you're replacing or upgrading tyres. But performance and safety can be altered in an instant if the sizes are not compatible with your car's specifications.

A lot of UAE drivers buy tyres online and are likely to mix sizes for price or style purposes. But without the manufacturer's sanction of size variation, you expose your car to potential damage and compromise road safety.

Let's first understand how tyre sizes can vary.

What Are The Different Ways In Which Tyre Sizes Can Differ?

Before we learn about the risks, we must know how tyres are measured. A tyre’s size is not defined by a single number. It has several parts that influence the way it fits and performs.

  • Width

    The width of the tyre is measured in millimetres and impacts the extent of the tyre that comes into contact with the road. If your tyres have different widths than what is prescribed for your vehicle, it can lead to severe handling and safety issues.

  • Rim Diameter

    This is the inner diameter of the tyre and is equal to the diameter of the rim of the wheel. If the rim diameter is not the same as that of the rim of the wheel, the tyre will not even fit the wheel properly. Certain cars, such as tractors, have varying front and rear wheel rim diameters, but for typical cars, identical diameters are essential.

  • Sidewall Aspect Ratio

    It is the sidewall height expressed as a percentage of the width of the tyre. If a single tyre has a higher sidewall than the other, it alters the car's height and steering. Uniform aspect ratio provides better performance and even tread wear. It also helps provide better balance to the car, offering a smoother drive.

Dangers Of Using The Wrong Size Tire

Even if your tyres seem to fit, the wrong size can cause hidden issues. Let’s examine the primary dangers, a wrong tyre choice can cause.

  • Rubbing With The Wheel Well

    If the tyre is oversized, it could rub against the wheel well during cornering or over bumps. This creates permanent damage to your car's body and tyres.

  • Increased Instability

    Tyres which are too wide or too narrow disturb the balance of your vehicle. This makes braking less precise and causes the vehicle to swerve more easily, particularly around curves.

  • Tachometer Inaccuracy

    Your tachometer and speedometer are scaled for a given tyre size. Incorrect sizes can confuse your vehicle's system, displaying incorrect engine and speed readings. You might believe you're moving at 100 km/h, but you might actually be going quicker or slower.

  • Rubbing And Clearance Problems

    The incorrect tyre size can result in rubbing against suspension components or fenders. This not only hinders the tyres' performance but also compromises ride comfort and safety.

  • Legality And Insurance Implications

    In the UAE, using tyres outside the approved size range is illegal. The Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology (ESMA) has set size standards for vehicle tyres in the UAE. Violating this could void your insurance in case of an accident and can also result in fines and penalties.

Can You Use Different Size Tyres Front And Back?

Yes, sometimes it's okay to have different sizes at the front and rear, but only if your car supports it.

Most sports and performance vehicles utilize this setup to enhance road grip and handling. Nevertheless, always consult your car manual or contact our specialists at Dial-a-Tire, an online tyre shop to find out if your design and suspension accommodate this type of setup.

If your car does not support this setup, it could lead to handling and braking issues and damage the vehicle's drivetrain.

Should You Use Different Size Tyres On The Same Axle?

Using different sizes of tyres on the same axle can be risky. It is never advisable to use different-sized tyres on the same axle.

Doing so affects how the car turns and handles. One side might grip more than the other, making your steering unpredictable. It increases the risk of losing control, especially at high speeds or in emergency situations.

Factors To Consider When Selecting Tyres UAE

Choosing a tyre is more than just picking a number. Consider these important points before buying your tyre to ensure the perfect size tyre for your car:

  • Vehicle Compatibility

    Refer to your car's handbook or seek advice from a tyre specialist to discover the manufacturer's specified sizes. Ensure the tyre is within authorized load and speed ratings.

  • Tyre Aspect Ratio And Width

    Lower aspect ratios enhance handling but stiffen the ride. While higher aspect ratios are softer, but can lower grip. Similarly, wider car tyres provide increased road contact but can lower fuel efficiency and wear against car components. Hence, make sure to check the tyre aspect ratio and width before finalizing the tyre.

  • Tyre Compound And Tread Pattern

    Check the tyre compound as softer tyres have more grip but wear out quicker. Tread pattern also affects the drainage of water and road noise. Decide depending on where and how you drive.

  • Wheel Offset And Backspacing

    Wheel offset and backspacing determine how the wheel fits inside the arch. Incorrect offset rubs or forces the wheel out too far, causing damage to your suspension or fenders.

  • Suspension Modifications

    If you want to upsize your tyres, you should be ready for possible suspension changes. Larger tyres will not fit unless your suspension is lifted or altered, and that increases cost and complexity.

Conclusion

Installing the incorrect tyre size may not sound like a serious problem at first, but over time, it will create severe safety problems, legal issues, and high repair bills.

If you are looking to buy the best fit tyres for your car, we at Dial-a-Tire will assist you in selecting the ideal tire types in Dubai based on your driving pattern. You can also get the best car tyres offers on your selected tyres.

Need to replace or change your tyres ? Call us at Dial-a-Tire today. We're here to assist you in driving safely and wisely around the UAE!