What Are Silent Tyres?

Are you longing for a smoother, quieter driving experience? If you’re looking for peace inside the cabin instead of the usual hum of tyres against the road, there’s a solution in the form of silent tyres. 

With advancements in tyre technology, manufacturers have developed solutions to minimise road noise, creating a more comfortable and refined driving experience. As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, the need for quieter tyres has grown — without the roar of an engine, tyre noise becomes more noticeable. Reducing road noise can make long journeys more enjoyable and less tiring, even for traditional petrol and diesel cars. 

Thanks to a specially formulated foam layer, silent tyres are able to absorb tyre cavity noise, so you don’t need to worry about your favourite playlist being drowned out on your journey home. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the technology behind this tyre type and explain why they could be the upgrade your car needs.

What are silent tyres?

Unlike standard tyres, silent tyres, like Continental’s, have a layer of polyurethane foam inside the tyre tread, which absorbs noise from the tyre cavity and looks to prevent body transmission. Silent tyres offer drivers reduced noise and a more luxurious driving experience. You can often find them in electric, luxury, and long-distance vehicles like coaches.

How do silent tyres work?

Silent tyres have several differences between them and your regular tyre.

• Firstly, silent tyres have a rubber compound that is designed to dampen noise. 
• Manufacturers then use a polyurethane sponge on the inside of the tyre that is designed to absorb these vibrations and reduce the amount of noise passed through to the cabin - as seen in the video above, where we visited Contidrom. 
• The sidewall is also enhanced to reduce resonance on the road. 
• Finally, the tyre tread is also reformulated to offer the best of both worlds: a silent but safe grip. 

This is very different from how regular tyres are made, so it’s important to weigh up what you and your vehicle require. Silent tyres can reduce noise by up to 9 decibels and improve driving comfort — with technology improving by the hour, we cannot imagine how much it could reduce in just a few years.  

Why do you hear noises whilst driving?

The tyre noise you hear while driving is caused by the vibration produced when air is compressed as the tyre is squashed against the road. It is transmitted from the tyre to the wheel hub before eventually reaching inside the cabin via the steering and suspension.

What are the benefits of having silent tyres?

Alongside a quieter drive, by having silent tyres, drivers can also benefit from: 

• Enhanced driving comfort. Reduced vibrations and smoother vehicle handling.
• Relaxed in-cabin experience. Reduced noise makes the driving experience better for passengers, especially on long road trip.
• Better fuel efficiency. Some silent tyres also reduce rolling resistance.
• Compatibility with electric vehicles. These tyres complement the near-silent operation of EVs.

Are there downsides to silent tyres?

While silent tyres have many advantages, it’s essential to consider a few of their downsides. Due to their advanced technology, silent tyres are a more expensive option, ranging upwards of 15% more expensive than standard tyres. Another limitation to silent tyres is that they may not suit all car models or have a wide range of options for your car.

How to choose the right silent tyres for your car

Before committing to silent tyres, you’ll need to consider several factors, including your vehicle type, driving habits, and road conditions. 

1. Check your car’s specifications. Some manufacturers design tyres for electric vehicles, SUVs, or performance cars.
2. Look for tyres with low rolling resistance and nose-reducing technology (foam lining/ tread pattern).
3. Pay attention to the EU tyre label, which provides a decibel (dB) rating for external noise levels—lower numbers indicate quieter performance.
4. Consider your typical driving environment. If you frequently drive on motorways, opt for tyres with enhanced noise dampening for high-speed travel.

What silent tyres do they sell at Kwik Fit?

At Kwik Fit, we have a comprehensive range of tyres — from high-end manufacturers to more budget-friendly options. We also sell a variety of noise-reducing tyres, such as:

• Continental PremiumContact C ContiSilent
• Continental SportContact 7 Silent

Comparing options from leading brands like Michelin, Continental, and Pirelli can help you find the best fit for your needs, ensuring a quieter, more comfortable ride. By contacting one of our stores, our experts can help you consider:

• Your driving needs (motorway vs. city driving)
• Compatibility with your car type (EV, SUV, hatchback)
• Manufacturer ratings on noise levels (e.g., dB ratings on tyre labels)
• Comparing brands.

Tyres made easier with Kwik Fit

Silent tyres are an excellent choice to add an extra layer of luxury to your driving experience. Looking for quiet and comfortable tyres? Explore our range of low-noise tyres today. At Kwik Fit, we help you find the best tyre to suit your vehicle and driving needs. 

Find your nearest location and contact us today. For more expert advice, stay up to date with our blogs and check out our guides.