When you see tires advertised, you’ll often see the word “radial” attached to it. What does this mean, and where did radial tires originate? Harold's Used Auto Parts Inc in Philadelphia, PA is here, with answers to questions you weren’t even asking.

Anymore, advertising a tire as “radial” is sort of similar to a hotel with a sign bragging they have “color TV”. These days, radial tires are just the norm, but you may remember a time when that wasn’t the case (depending on your age.)

The first radial tire was patented in 1915 and saw widespread use throughout Europe and Asia in the 50s and 60s. However, the first American car wasn’t fitted with radial tires from the factory until the 1970s - shortly after, it was game over for non-radial tires.

Radial tires are tires that have plies, or layers of corded metal, inlaid with rubber, rather than just being rubber the whole way through. The effect is better mileage, more durability, and better handling - if you’ve ever wondered why you don’t find yourself stranded on the side of the road as often as when you were a kid, you have radial tires to thank for it. You can see the radial cords when a tire wears down way too much - if yours are at that point, we highly suggest getting new ones.

No matter your repair or maintenance needs, our technicians have you covered. For the best auto service shop in Philadelphia, PA, call or stop by Harold's Used Auto Parts Inc today.