What to Look For In Tires For Winter

When winter weather arrives, changing to winter tires, also known as snow tires, has long been the preferred option. Though all-season tires are advertised as a complete solution to all weather and driving conditions, the tire experts at Taylor and Sons Chevrolet will tell you that winter tires , particularly in an Idaho winter, offer superior grip in deep snow and icy roads.

When evaluating winter tires, there are specific features you’ll want to take into account before making your decision.

• What type of tread does the tire have? Different tires offer different types of treads. Asking your dealer about what type of tread is best for your particular vehicles is important when choosing your tires.

• Ask about Cell Technology. This recent development in tire technology is available in high-end snow tires. It’s effective in pulling the water away that rests on top of thin ice, similar to how summer tires do with rain.

• Studs or no studs? Studs are allowed on Idaho roads from October 1st to April 30th. First used in the 1960’s, studs have been providing extra traction as they cut into ice. Unfortunately, they also cut into roads when the roads are clear.

• SUV’s, 4x4s, and all-wheel vehicles all benefit by having winter tires. Fitting snow tires to these vehicles makes a significant difference when driving in wintry conditions. One major tire supplier conducted a study and found that stopping distances were shortened by up to 35% using winter tires.

Like making any type of purchase, having some tips from the experts is always helpful. Here are a few to make your purchase of winter tires easier:

• Never buy partly worn or retread winter tires. This is ineffective, and can be dangerous.

• Change all four tires, not just two. This also makes for unsafe driving. Having winter tires on only the front or back of your vehicle will put it out of balance and make it much more prone to sliding when braking on snow or ice.

• Check your tire pressure at least once per month. Tires can lose as much as one pound per square inch for each drop in temperature of 10°F.

• Even if you have studded tires, follow the same winter precautions when driving in winter conditions:

o Turn slowly

o Don’t tailgate

o Brake gently and well in advance

o Take your foot off the gas if you begin to slide, and turn toward the slide to straighten out the vehicle

o Take a winter driving class

At Taylor and Sons Chevrolet we believe in safety first for you and your family. If you haven’t evaluated your options in winter tires for your vehicle, don’t delay. The safety and well-being of you and your family rides on it.

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