Lionhart FAQ
Lionhart follows the recommendations of the industry associations regarding tire life and inspection guidelines. We recommend that, in addition to regular tire inspections, customers have their tires inspected by a qualified tire service person after five (5) years of use to determine if the tires can continue in service. It is recommended that spare tires be inspected at the same time. Further, even when tires appear to be usable from their external appearance or the tread depth may have not reached the minimum wear out depth, it is recommended that all tires (including spare tires) that were manufactured more than ten (10) years previous be replaced with new tires.
Original Equipment tires are engineered to meet specific requirements set by the vehicle manufacturer. Replacement tires are designed to provide the performance and treadwear most drivers expect for a particular type of tire.
Check with the tire seller to see if they have a list of approved installers in your area.
To learn more about aspect ratio, diameters, and sizing in general, visit our How To Read A Sidewall guide.
Typically, direction tires have an arrow symbol on their sidewall to indicate the direction they should roll. Non-directional tires do not. Lionhart recommends reading product descriptions or asking the tire seller if the tires you are purchasing are directional or not.
Tires should be stored indoors in a cool, dry place. Extreme heat or cold may result in tire damage. Temperatures below freezing and above 100 F / 38C should be avoided. Water should not be allowed to collect inside them. Tires should be placed away from electric generators/motors and sources of heat such as hot pipes. Storage surfaces should be clean and free of grease, gasoline or other substances which can deteriorate the rubber.
To learn more about tire types, visit our How To Choose Tires guide.
Never exceed the load-carrying limits or maximum vehicle axle load limit as shown on the vehicle tire placard. Overloading builds up excessive heat in the tire and could lead to failure.
The speed rating of a tire indicates the speed category at which the tire can carry a load under specified service conditions. To learn more about speed ratings, click here.
To learn more about sidewall information, visit our tire markings guide.
Lionhart recommended avoiding used tires. You can never know what hazards and abuse a previously owned tire has suffered. Internal damage can lead to dangerous tire failure.
A good indication of when to replace your tires are by measuring tread depth and a visual inspection for damage. For more information, visit our How To Measure Tread Depth guide.
Tires should be rotated every six months or 6,000 to 8,000 miles.
For the best all-around performance, the same tire type should be used on all four wheel positions. Tires of different size designations, constructions, and stages of wear may affect vehicle handling and stability. It is important to note that some vehicles are intentionally equipped with different size tires on the front and rear, known as a staggered fitment.
Cupping can be attributed to bent or worn suspension parts, wheel misalignment, an imbalance of the tire/wheel assembly, etc. Once this type of wear pattern has occurred, it is irreversible and the tires will continue to wear unevenly. Lionhart recommends immediately replacing the cupped tire(s) to avoid safety concerns.