Tire and Wheel Definitions (and What to Expect from Tire Service)
Have you run into tire or wheel terms you’re not familiar with? Use this quick-reference glossary to get up to speed while you shop. If you’re ready for new tires or wheels, browse our industry‑leading selection—then buy and book online for a shorter wait time in‑store.
Air check: Using a pressure gauge to measure the air in each tire. Aim to check monthly, at rotations, or every other fuel stop. Learn more about tire pressure.
Air pressure (PSI): The amount of air in your tire, measured in pounds per square inch. Use your vehicle’s recommended PSI.
Alignment: Adjusting suspension angles (caster, camber, toe) to factory specs to help tires wear evenly and keep your vehicle tracking straight. More on wheel alignment.
All-season tires: Built for year‑round driving in dry, wet, and light snow conditions.
All-terrain tires: More aggressive tread for on‑ and light off‑road use; common on trucks and SUVs.
Asymmetric tread: Different inner/outer tread designs to balance wet, winter, and dry handling.
Backspacing/offset: Wheel measurements that determine how a wheel sits in the fender well. Learn about offset and backspacing.
Balancing: Distributing weight evenly around the wheel/tire assembly to reduce vibration. About balancing.
Bead/bead chafer: The tire edge and its reinforcement that seal and seat the tire on the wheel.
Bolt pattern: The circle and count of wheel studs that secure the wheel to the hub.
Camber/caster/toe: Alignment angles that affect steering feel, tire wear, and stability.
Contact patch: The area of tread touching the road. Learn about the contact patch.
Directional tread: V‑shaped patterns optimized for water evacuation; must rotate in a set direction.
DOT identification: Code on the sidewall indicating compliance and build details, including manufacture date.
Hydroplaning: Loss of traction on standing water. Learn more about hydroplaning.
Load index/load range: How much weight a tire can carry at a given pressure. Learn about load index and range.
Speed rating: Maximum sustained speed capability, by letter code. Learn about speed ratings.
TPMS: Tire Pressure Monitoring System that alerts you when pressure drops. Learn about TPMS.
Tire rotation: Moving tires front‑to‑rear or side‑to‑side to promote even tread wear. Learn about rotations.
Tread depth/wear bars: Measures usable rubber; wear bars show at 2/32". Learn about tread depth.
UTQG: Tire maker’s internal ratings for treadwear, traction, and temperature. Learn about UTQG.
Winter tires: Specialized rubber and tread for cold, snow, and ice. Learn about winter tires.
Want the full A–Z? This glossary covers everything from bead filler to zero toe, so scroll and explore any term you need while you shop.
What’s Typically Included When You Buy Tires
While inclusions vary by retailer and location, many tire centers commonly include:
- Professional mounting and balancing
- New rubber valve stems or TPMS service kits (as needed)
- Old tire disposal
- Post‑install torque check
- Initial road test and air pressure set to vehicle specs
Frequently offered with purchase (sometimes as lifetime services or with membership/coverage):
- Tire rotations at recommended intervals
- Rebalancing to correct vibrations
- Flat repair (when safely repairable)
- Pro‑rated or mileage warranties from the tire manufacturer
- Optional road‑hazard protection plans
Always check your specific store’s package details before you buy.
Find Discount Tire and See Available Services
Use the store locator to find Discount Tire locations and see services available in your area. Services vary by store and may include tire and wheel sales, installation, rotations, rebalancing, TPMS services, and alignments.
Example local store: Discount Tire, 4750 N 99th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85037. Phone: 602‑337‑5289
Alignment services are available at this location. After placing your order, please call the store to schedule. Learn more about our alignment services.
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