The Truth About Tires For Hybrid Cars

Assuming that you’re like most people, buying a new set of tires is pretty far down on your list of priorities. It’s something that you put off until it can’t be put off any longer or until you need to pass inspection.

However, if you own a hybrid car, it’s time to rethink that strategy. Because while hybrid vehicles are more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than their gas-powered counterparts, they’re also putting more strain on your tires.

For the love of the rolling power behind your car, stay with us as our certified technicians from Toyota of Fort Walton Beach discuss the basics of hybrid tires.

Support the Weight:

If you didn’t know already, hybrids are heavier than regular cars. The weight of a hybrid car can put extra strain on your tires, so it’s vital to get tires that can support the weight of your vehicle.

You might be thinking, “I’ll just get bigger tires.” But it’s not that simple. If you get bigger tires, they could be too big and rub against your car’s body. That would create more friction, and we all know that extra friction means extra wear and tear on your tires. Not to mention, it would probably make a pretty annoying noise.

Low Friction is Priority:

Hybrids also have regenerative braking, which means that the electric motor helps slow the car down when you brake. It can help extend the life of your brakes, but it also puts extra stress on your tires. When you brake, your tires have to work harder to stop the car.

For that reason, low rolling resistance is an essential factor to consider when you’re buying tires for a hybrid car. Rolling resistance is the amount of force required to keep a tire rolling. The lower the rolling resistance, the less energy your car uses to keep moving.

Noiseless is a Winner:

The near-silent powertrain of a hybrid car is one of its main selling points. But if your tires are making a lot of noise, it will ruin the experience. That’s why low noise levels are another critical factor to consider when you’re buying tires for a hybrid car. Tires designed for hybrid cars tend to have particular tread patterns and materials like a foam inlay that help keep noise levels down.

“My tires on my combustion engine car don’t make noise either, then what’s so special here?” let us break it to you that your engine masks the noise your tires are making. The electric motors in a hybrid car, on the other hand, are so quiet that any tire noise is amplified.

Conclusion:

Just because a tire is marketed as “green” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best choice for your hybrid car. Get in touch with us at Toyota of Fort Walton Beach, serving Fort Walton Beach, FL, and we can help you choose the right tires for your car.

We know because we deal in new and preowned cars, including hybrids! Visit us today for all your tire needs and your regular maintenance. We’ll be happy to assist.

Schedule a service here!