Back to all

Picking the Right Tires in Elgin

December 1, 2019

Shopping for tires in Elgin can be bewildering because there are many choices. Let's simplify. There are four main classifications of tires, each designed for different purposes.

First off, there are summer tires. Those who buy summer tires in Elgin are looking for maximum summertime performance. The rubber is a little softer to help stick to the road on fast corners on Illinois roads. The tread has wide blocks at the shoulder to stiffen the tire in turns. The tread design can handle rain but really isn't set up for snow and ice.

Next comes winter tires. Elgin people buy winter tires because they still like performance driving when it's cold and slippery on Illinois roads, so they need a tread design that'll really bite into ice and snow. The rubber compound is formulated to stay pliable when temperatures drop below 45 degrees F/7 degrees C so they get great traction even on dry roads. On the other end of the winter tire spectrum are tires designed to handle well in severe ice and snow conditions.

The third category is all-season tires. Most new cars in Elgin showrooms come with all-season tires. This is a tire that is designed to be used all year round. The tread design and rubber compound is a compromise that won't give you the extreme capabilities of summer or winter tires; but if you're driving and weather conditions aren't at the extreme ends of the range, all-season tires might suit you just fine.

The last category is what you might have on your SUV or pickup. All-terrain or off-road tires are designed for both highway and off-road use – a tire that gets good traction in the dirt and on off-road obstacles, but still performs well on paved Elgin roads.

Choosing the right tire is important for Elgin car owners. Talk with your Tuffy Auto Service Center Elgin tire professional about your driving requirements and receive valuable guidance on tires that will meet your needs.

Give us a call.

Tuffy Auto Service Center Elgin
395 S. Randall Rd
Elgin, Illinois 60123
847-717-4682

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Tuffy Elgin

See the Light (Bulb Replacement)

January 25, 2026

When you notice one of your headlights has gone out, its important for the safe operation of your vehicle to get it changed and working again. Not only is replacing a headlight important for your ability to see in the dark, but its also vital that it be lighting your way and aimed correctly so o... More

Stop! And See Us (Brake Pad Replacement)

January 18, 2026

If youve ever driven a bicycle with hand brakes, youll probably understand how the brake pads on your vehicle work. Bicycle brakes use a system that squeezes the bike wheels rim with a pair of cushioned pads activated by your hand squeezing the hand brakes on your handlebars. The friction of tho... More

Don?t Be Hosed (Radiator Hose Replacement)

January 11, 2026

If you are like most drivers, you dont worry too much about what shape your radiator hoses are in. But they are a vital part of your coolant system, helping carry engine coolant from the hot engine to where it is cooled off in the radiator. When the cooling system has a problem, you will likel... More