Winter weather brings a new set of challenges for your vehicle, including your tires. Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that comes into contact with the road, so it’s important to ensure they’re up for handling winter weather. That means getting new tires for the winter season. Here are a few reasons to consider installing winter tires on your vehicle.
Winter Tires Have Better Tread
Your regular tires might have plenty of tread left, but that doesn’t mean they’re ready for winter weather. Winter tires are designed with a special tread pattern that helps them grip the road in snow and ice. They also have a softer rubber compound that remains pliable in cold temperatures so that they can grip the road better than regular tires in sub-zero temperatures. This is especially important for traction and braking.
Winter Tires Can Help You Avoid Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road because they can’t displace enough water. This can happen in as little as 1/12 inch of water and can be hazardous. While ice is more of a threat during the winter than standing water, that ice can melt during the day and refreeze at night, so it’s important to be prepared for both.
Winter tires are designed to help prevent hydroplaning by channeling water out of the way so your tires can stay in contact with the road. This is due to specialized grooves in the tread pattern that acts like little channels.
All-Season Tires Aren’t Enough
All-season tires are a good option if you don’t want to deal with changing your tires twice a year. But even all-season tires can’t match the performance of winter tires in winter weather. When harsh weather hits, all-season tires can’t match the grip of winter tires. That can mean longer stopping distances and less control on the road. By installing winter tires, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that your car is better equipped to handle whatever winter throws your way.
You Might Need Winter Tires Sooner Than You Think
The winter weather may be mild at times, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need winter tires. As soon as the temperatures start to dip below freezing — even for a short time — it’s time to switch to winter tires. Cold weather can cause regular tires to harden and lose some of their grip, and you don’t want to be caught without the right tires when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Winter Tires Can Last Years
If you take care of your winter tires, they can last for several seasons. That means you don’t have to buy new tires every year. Just make sure to store them properly during the spring and summer months. Keep them in a cool, dry place — like a garage — and they’ll be ready to go when winter rolls around again.
Schedule Your Winter Tire Change Today
Don’t wait until the first snowfall to get new tires. Get a head start on winter weather by scheduling a tire change today. At our Ford dealership, we’re happy to help you select the right winter tires for your vehicle and driving needs. We can also help you take care of the installation process to ensure your tires are ready to go when winter weather hits.
Call today or stop by to get started. We look forward to helping you prepare for the winter season!