Should You Get New Tires For Winter?
Winter is quickly approaching, and it’s time to think about whether or not your tires will make it through the winter. Before the snow starts to fly, make sure you have the best tires to handle the weather in your area. There are several factors to consider: the amount of snow and average temperature during winter where you live, the tread depth of your all-season tires, and whether or not you have space to store a second set of tires. Let’s dive in and make sure you’re prepared.
Why Winter Tires Are a Must in Cold Conditions:
Winter tires are better than all-season tires for snow and cold conditions. They have a tread that’s designed to channel water and slush away to help prevent hydroplaning. They also have a softer rubber that grips better than all-season tires in temperatures below 45°F, which means they handle braking and cornering better. If you live in an area that typically has a lot of snow, you should probably consider using snow tires during the colder months.
If you live in an area that rarely gets snow and doesn’t have extreme cold, you might want to stick with all-season tires to prevent excessive wear on your tires. Winter tires have a softer rubber that wears out faster when driving on warmer, dry roads.
If you live in an urban or suburban area where the city is on top of salting the roads, you probably only need all-season tires. If you live in a rural area where the roads stay covered in snow, you will probably benefit from winter tires.
How To Check Tire Tread Depth:
If your regular all-season tires are nearing the end of their life (the tread depth is less than 4/32 of an inch), then you should consider replacing them before snow hits. If you don’t have a tire tread depth gauge, you can check it yourself using a penny. Insert it into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head going in first. If his head isn’t visible above the tread, your tires are fine.
Storage Space and Mounting:
Other things to consider are the ability to store the tires and getting them mounted. When you remove your tires at the end of winter, you’ll need a place to store them until you need them again. They should be stored in a rack or on their side in a cool, dry area out of the sun and in plastic bags to reduce oxidation. You’ll also need to take them somewhere to have them mounted each year if you don’t have the ability to do it yourself. Although investing in winter tires is an added expense, you will be cutting down on the wear time of your regular tires, so you won’t need to replace them as quickly.
Modify Your Driving Habits for Road Conditions:
No matter what tires you choose to use for winter driving, keep in mind that braking and maneuvering in snow and on ice is more difficult. Don’t be overconfident because you have all-wheel drive or a 4x4 vehicle. Your car won’t stop any faster if your tires aren’t gripping the pavement. Winter tires will give you extra grip, but you still need to drive in control. Always maintain a safe distance and drive more cautiously. Also, keep in mind that even if you’re prepared, other drivers may not be. So give yourself extra space at intersections and make sure your car is equipped with emergency supplies in case you get stuck.
