Snow tires, or winter tires, do a number of things to facilitate driving at less than 45-degree temperatures. First, the treads on snow tires are designed to provide maximum traction in snow and ice, with some wide circumferential grooves, some razor-thin grooves, and biting edges. Also, the rubber compounds are more resistant to cold than those of regular or all-season tires. Snow tires remain pliable at very low temperatures, allowing them better control on cold, dry roads as well as in snow and ice. ABS brakes and Traction Control are not replacements for snow tires; in fact, these technologies work even better with snow tires.
Snow tires go on like any other tires. Find the right size and pressure of snow tires for your car and buy a set of four of them. This is important: even on a two-wheel drive car, you need all four snow tires to maximize their effects. A traction mismatch can have serious consequences. Also, unless you live in a place that is consistently below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, you will want to switch back to your regular tires for the warmer months each year. This will increase the longevity of both your snow tires and regular tires.
Buying and installing new tires will pay for itself in costs of car damage and replacing regular tires, but the initial purchase can be a large expense. If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying used snow tires. Though there is some risk involved, they’re incredibly cheap, easily replaceable, and come in many different varieties. Or, go to your local tire vendor and ask about affordable snow tire options. If you set a price and tell them what you’re willing to spend, they’ll help you out.
How To Use This Information
If you’re looking for any other advice or assistance in preparing your car for winter driving, just ask our team at Accurate Auto Body. Even if you’re well prepared for snowy roads, not everyone is, and accidents happen, so whether you’re insured or uninsured, call Accurate Auto Body’s Colorado car repair experts at (303) 344-2212 or set up an appointment online.
Where do you go to find affordable tires?
