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Close-up of a front left tire of the K8
Tires
Choosing the right tires makes your ride safe and comfortable
Your Kia's driving performance and pleasure can be greatly impacted by the type of tire you choose. Tires are a key component of your vehicle, so it's important to select the right one for optimal driving performance.
Recommendations for Your Kia

How to Read Tire Sizes

The number on the side of the tire indicates its size.

Illustration of simplified tire with specific numbers
  • 225
    Tire Width: The distance in millimeters between the two sidewalls.
  • 55
    Aspect Ratio: The percentage ratio of the tire's sidewall height to its width.
  • 16
    Wheel diameter in inches.

Tires for Your Kia

You can choose tires based on your driving style and environment to have a safe and comfortable drive.
Why Winter Tires Are Important?

Enhanced Winter Braking Performance

Winter tires are designed with softer rubber materials which provide stable braking performance even at very low temperatures such as -30°C. This makes them a better option than summer or all-season tires, which have a tendency to harden in temperatures below 7°C.

Better Traction in Winter

Winter tires are specifically designed to provide better traction and grip in sub-zero temperatures and snowy conditions. Their deep and wide tread grooves allow for effective drainage and the fine grooves offer enhanced grip, ensuring stability on slippery roads.

Handling

When driving on cold and snowy roads, the slick surface can drastically reduce the braking and handling performance compared to normal conditions. However, installing winter tires can help stabilize your driving and allow you to maintain the intended level of control even on slippery terrain.

When to Switch to Winter Tires

It's best to switch to winter tires when the temperature falls below 7°C as other tires can become harder and less efficient in braking and handling. Winter tires will help ensure your safety and stability on the road, especially in cold weather.
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Tire Maintenance and Care Tips

Tire Pressure

Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial as improper tire pressure can lead to hazardous accidents, reduce tire lifespan, and increase fuel consumption. Therefore, it's essential to check your tire pressure regularly to ensure optimal tire performance and safe driving.

Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is making sure your tires are straight and parallel to each other. If they're not, you might feel your car vibrating, hear strange noises, and your tires could wear out unevenly.

Wheel Balancing

When the weight of a wheel and tire is unbalanced, it can lead to several issues while driving, such as uneven tire wear, noise, and vibration. Hence, if you're replacing your tires, it's advisable to have your wheels balanced for the best possible performance and a comfortable driving experience.

Rotation

Rotating your tires regularly can help extend their lifespan by evening out the wear and tear. However, the method of rotation can vary depending on your driving style and driving system.
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FAQ
  • You can check the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle by looking at the tire pressure label attached to the center pillar next to the driver's seat or by checking the owner's manual.

  • If your Kia was launched after mid-2010, it may have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that constantly checks tire pressure. During winter, the TPMS may alert you with the tire pressure warning light if there's low air pressure caused by underinflation or puncture. To resolve this issue, you can use the tire mobility kit or take your vehicle to a Kia Service Center for inspection and repair.

  • Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of your Kia's steering and suspension components to their original specifications. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear, noise, and vibrations. This can be due to factors like tire condition, driving habits, and environment. To prevent these issues, it's recommended to have your wheels aligned after changing your tires.

  • Check the tire tread depth and replace the tire if it's less than 1.6mm in general road driving or less than 2.4mm in highway driving.

  • If you have tire damage while driving, it's critical to act quickly to avoid accidents. First, pull over safely and turn on hazard lights and parking brake. Next, use the tire mobility kit to temporarily fix the puncture. Then, drive at a maximum speed of 80km/h to the nearest tire shop or Kia Dealer. If you can't move, call Kia Roadside Assistance.

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