How does tyre width impact handling?
How tyre width affects handling
Tyre width has a noticeable effect on how your car handles in different conditions. The impact varies between dry, wet and cold weather, so the right width depends on your typical driving environment.
Wider tyres in dry conditions
A wider tyre provides a larger contact patch with the road, which generally improves:
- Cornering grip and lateral stability
- Dry braking performance
- Steering responsiveness and precision
Wider tyres in wet conditions
In the wet, wider tyres can actually reduce safety. The larger surface area makes it harder to disperse water from under the tyre, which increases the risk of aquaplaning. This is where the tyre rides on top of the water film and temporarily loses contact with the road surface.
Narrower tyres
Narrower tyres cut through water and slush more effectively, making them better in rain and snow. They also tend to offer a more comfortable ride due to higher sidewalls and produce less road noise at speed.
What we recommend
Always stick to manufacturer-approved tyre widths for your vehicle. Your car's suspension geometry, steering calibration and electronic stability systems are all designed around specific tyre dimensions. Changing width outside the approved range can compromise handling, safety and system accuracy.
