Jersey Guy Automotive OLD

Snow Isn't The Only Reason for Winter Tires

If your vehicle is fitted with all-season tires, and you managed to drive unscathed through the early and mid-December snows, you may be thinking that you don't really need winter tires this season. You may want to reconsider that. Whether you are simply continuing your day-to-day routine or prepping for a long trip to a relative's home for the holidays, you're heavily relying on your tires. Don't overlook something that can affect you and your family's safety.

Winter tires are not merely "snow tires." It would be more accurate to call them "cold temperature tires." When the mercury dips, they offer greater control of your vehicle, regardless of whether there's snow or ice on the road.

The rubber compounds found in all-season tires are harder than those found in winter tires. As a result, all-season tires lose some of their elasticity in cold temperatures. "Cold" doesn't necessarily mean freezing, either. At temperatures below 45º F (7º C), all-season tires begin to lose some of their effectiveness. Reduced elasticity inhibits how well the tire can adapt to the surface of the road while the vehicle is in motion. That means less grip during braking, turning, and acceleration.

Winter tires, by comparison, are made of specialized compounds that retain their elasticity well into sub-freezing temperatures. Even on dry roads, winter tires can offer cold temperature traction that's as much as 50 percent greater than all-season tires.

And, yes: winter tires are equipped with tread patterns that allow them to perform much more effectively on snow and ice. On a snow covered road, you can expect stopping distances that are at least 25 percent shorter than what you'll get from your all-season tires.

Its always a good idea to make sure you are taking the necessary precautions, especially when your family's safety is in mind. As the winter season officially begins, there's a good chance we'll be seeing a lot more snow, freezing temperatures, and icy roads. While all season tires have been reliable so far, you should always hope for the best and plan for the worst. That being said, the risk isn't worth it. The last thing you need during this time of the year is an extravagant hospital bill.

Winter tires are worth the expense, and that expense is probably less than you think. Here at Jersey Guy Automotive, we'll make sure that you and your family always get where you need to go, no matter the elements. Stop by our Somerville shop for a quote today!

[Photo credit: Ian McWilliams via Flickr, used under CC-by-2.0 license]