We just looked at comparing Tread Life Warranty as a factor for getting the best deal on your next set of new tires, but this is not the only factor. You might also find that the tire you are shopping does not have a stated Tread Life Warranty. If this is the case, check out the UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) code for the tires, here you can detect quality differences.
While this code was developed into a standard to help consumers make comparisons regarding performance of the tires, it is rarely factored into the buying decision. However, paying attention to details like this can help consumers detect the differences that could save them lots of money.
So What is UTQG Anyways?
This code of standards allows consumers to have a comparison of treadwear, traction and temperature ratings on any tire purchased in the US. The treadwear grade is a way to compare the expected life of the tire. While this is just a grade and not a rule, due to the variance in drivers and driving conditions, it serves as a good comparison between tires. If one tire you are looking at has a treadwear grade of 200 and another has a treadwear grade of 400, the tire with the 400 grade will last twice as long as the 200 grade tire, based on tests conducted under the same conditions.
The traction grade is a measurement of the tires capacity to stop in wet driving conditions. The grades, from highest to lowest, AA, A, B and C. A tire with a high traction grade of AA will stop in wet conditions sooner than a tire with a B traction rating. The higher the rating the better the stopping capability on a rainy day.
The last grade is for temperature and this indicates a tires resistance to heat. The higher the grade (A) the better the tire can handle heat, like when driving long distances under hot driving conditions. The grades are A, B and C.
Pay attention to the specifications of your next set of new tires and you will not only save money, you’ll ensure the tires you are purchasing are best suited for your driving needs.
