As Christmas draws near, many people may be looking for the perfect gift, and while a grand gesture might seem like the perfect choice, an unlikely present could be a better option. A recent survey by Hankook Tire America found that about half of respondents would like to receive new tires for Christmas this year, USA Today reports.

For some people, getting tires would not only be appreciated, but it would probably make their holiday season even brighter. The company found that 35 percent of drivers would "love" getting the gift of tires for Christmas this year. This might seem like an unusual choice for a gift, but the findings are less surprising when you consider how valuable a good set of wheels can be to both function and safety.

The findings may be even less shocking if you consider the amount of traveling people are planning on doing this holiday season. According to the publication, about 40 percent of people surveyed said that they are going on a road trip, and about half of those expecting to drive more than 500 miles.

Having good tires can be one of the most important things for drivers, and it's easy to see why. After all, they are the only parts of the car that are in constant contact with the road. Most significantly, if tires are in good working condition, they provide better safety by improving a car's ability to stop, turn and go.

Tires can also improve your gas mileage, which is especially important given the continuously high prices of gas. If tires are not filled properly or have worn treads, it means that the engine has to work harder to compensate.

Along with buying a new set of tires this holiday season, visiting New Jersey State Auto Auction can help your car's safety and gas mileage. That's because the dealer's Total Car Car center provides auto maintenance and repairs to the public.