If you have ever driven in extreme winter conditions like a blizzard, ice storm, or a mixture of both, you understand how scary it can be.To make matters worse, weather can be unpredictable...especially in the midwest. In order to feel safe behind the wheel, you want to ensure that your tires have the ability to handle any type of weather condition. Just as coats, boots, and mittens are made for us to withstand the elements, winter tires are designed for automobiles for the exact same reason.
This time of year, many drivers debate whether or not it is worth investing in a dedicated set of winter tires. With advances in all-season tires, and mild winters in some areas, it is a fair decision to wrestle with. Although all-season tires offer traction in a variety of different weather conditions, winter tires surpass them when it comes to traction in snow and ice.
The Major Differences
If you have to drive in snowy conditions, winter tires out-perform most all-season and all-terrain tires with better stopping and starting ability. They are a good choice for all cars regardless of front, rear, or all-wheel drive. The tread compound of all-season tires can harden in low temperatures, so there's less traction between the road and your tires. But winter tires use special rubber compounds that stay pliable in the cold, giving them better grip and improved braking, even in extreme conditions. Need to see it to believe it? Watch videos of winter tires being tested on ice.
What You Should Know
Winter tires can easily be identified with a mountain and snowflake symbol on the sidewall. You always want to use four matching winter tires for the best balance and handling of your vehicle on snow-covered roads. Unfortunately, winter tires wear more quickly than all-season tires, and winter performance will decline as they wear. As a best practice, replace your winter tires before they are worn out (the same as all-season tires), and if you remove them at the end of winter, you may possibly get three to four seasons of good use out of them.
Don’t forget that not all tires are created equal. Winter tires feature tread designs made specifically for ice, snow and other severe winter conditions. Most drivers find that winter tires provide a sense of confidence and control in challenging winter weather conditions
For more information on winter tires for your vehicle, visit the Expressway Dodge website or call (812) 471-2000.
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