Best summer tyres 185/55 R16

To compile this ranking of the best summer tyres of 185/55 R16 size, we collected over 150,000 scores and reviews, from UK and foreign sources.

Are included only tyres which, in addition to having a high average rating, also have a valid number of reviews for statistical purposes.

The main aspects tested for choosing the best summer 185/55 R16 tyres are:

• Road holding
• Wet grip
• Braking performance
• Fuel consumption
• Noise and comfort 

Here you find our choice of the best 10 tyres in size 185/55 R16.

Next to the average score, you will also find the best price available.

Why buy summer tyres and not all-season tyres?

• Top summer performance

  All-season tyres are practical because they do not require a tyre change, but they do not show excellent performance in any season. On the contrary, a summer tyre guarantees maximum performance during the hot season.

• Safety

  Summer tyres maintain a high level of grip even when temperatures get warmer.
  The tyres are optimized to resist heat and respond to the brakes faster than any other tyre during the warmer months. This results in a shorter stopping distance between you and the next vehicle to avoid an accident.

• Exclusive tread design

  Summer tyres have a summer specific tread design, which is not common with most all-season tyres. The tread design includes a shallower depth which improves the grip, control and smoothness of the vehicle, including wet traction.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

• Can summer tyres be use in rain?

  Not only are they good, they are also the best choice over any other tyre.
  However, keep in mind that this valid only in the warmer months. If temperatures approach zero, winter and all-season tyres perform better on wet surfaces.

• Is it safe to use summer tyres in the winter months?

  No, please do not use 185/55 R16 summer tyres when it is very cold. They are composed of a harder compound that is not very flexible at low temperatures, which results in less grip than a winter tyre. The all-season tyres also offer better traction and grip in intense cold conditions.
  Summer tyres, as the name suggests, should only be used in the warm months, not in too cold months, when the temperature approaches zero.

• How many km summer tyres last?

  Obviously, it depends from the model. However, 185/55 R16 summer tyres usually have a shorter tread life than all-season or winter tyres.
  They last for a maximum of 50,000 km, because the summer heat negatively affects the quality of the tyre by draining it from its oils. The tyres then lose elasticity and begin to develop cracks, fractures and uneven wear.

Helpful tips

• If you replace your summer tyres with winter ones, keep them in a cool, dry place.
  Do not leave them out in the cold, as they may lose shape and structural integrity. The best place to store them is for example in the basement where there is a stable temperature.
• Check the tread depth to understand when they need to be replaced.
  Also, check the tyres for wear, cracks or fractures. Check the side for cracks that could cause leaks, bulges that could cause bursting or uneven wear that could reduce its performance in both dry and wet conditions.