How to Find the Right Tire to Survive the Winter Weather
While every season comes with its own driving challenges, winter has some of the most unpredictable and dangerous conditions. Between finding your way through heavy snow and trying to avoid skidding on black ice, making sure you have the right tires on your vehicle can be the difference between staying safe and putting yourself at risk of an accident. The use of specially designed winter tires can give you the performance and security you need while driving in tough conditions.
Winter tire technology has made some incredible advances in recent years. Some tires have so much traction, tire experts say they’ll squeal a little when coming to an emergency stop on ice. Having that sort of control allows you to get where you need to go, when you need to be there, without worrying too much about the state of the roads.
This is the result of a manufacturing technique known as glass transition temperature. Normally, when the temperatures drop, rubber stops being pliable. This modern technique allows the rubber on winter tires to remain supple even in near-zero temperatures.
Due to the fact that this benefit can backfire once temperatures reach summer levels, many assume all-season tires are the best option, yet the name can be deceiving. While all-season tires are effective in a range of conditions, they do not provide the grip and handling needed to match the extremes of summer and winter. Preparing for each season and fitting your car with tires to match can ensure your vehicle is ready to take on anything nature throws its way.
For example, the tread on tires comes with a feature called sipes. Sipes are razor-thin grooves that create edges. These edges help your vehicle cling to the road for maximum grip. While modern vehicles have technology to help with traction control and ABS braking, winter tires, including ones with optional studs for icy conditions, are essential to navigating the dangers of winter weather. Plus, changing out your summer tires helps extend their lifespan and prevent the wear that usually accompanies driving in the winter months. Winter tires are designed to be durable and are specifically made with snow and ice conditions in mind.
There are four different kinds of tread on winter tires and it’s important to know which one is required for particular situations. Directional tire treads help siphon water to prevent hydroplaning, making them excellent for high-performance applications. Symmetrical tires, or ones with the same tread pattern across the entire tire, are meant for passenger cars because they are quiet and generally long-lasting. Asymmetrical tire treads, on the other hand, are found on sports cars because of their hybrid tread patterns that allow for intense grip on both wet and dry roads. Finally, directional/asymmetrical treads allow for a “best of both worlds” situation, combining the siphoning technique of directional tread with the grip of the asymmetrical style.
It’s important to remember to install new tires in sets of four once you’ve determined the type that fits your needs. Every driver’s situation is different and it can help to talk to local experts who can find exactly the right tire and tread combination to help you reach your destinations safely. For more insights and tips on tire maintenance, visit Bauer Built!
Categories: Bauer Built Blog, Car Care Tips, Tire Care Tips
