When to do a Winter Tire Change-Over?
When to do a Winter Tire Change-Over?
Posted on July 11, 2023
Winter Tire Change-Over in Stettler, Alberta
When winter approaches, it’s time to start thinking about readying your vehicle for cold or icy weather. Getting a winter tire change-over might not seem critical, but it can be beneficial, providing better safety and traction during inclement weather. Keep reading to learn more about the importance of winter tires, and then visit our Winter Tire Safety Tips page for more information.
When to Change to Winter Tires
When to switch your tires to winter tires is determined by a variety of factors, including temperature and provincial regulations. It can be tricky to know when to change to winter tires, as different areas experience different winter weather and temperature drops. In general, it’s a good idea to switch to your winter tires when the weather is consistently below 7 degrees Celsius. Here in Stettler, Alberta, that is around mid-to-late October.
Winter Tires and Safety
All-season tires are generally suitable for driving in temperatures of 7 degrees Celsius or higher. The rubber is flexible enough in these temperatures to maintain a good grip on the road. When the temperature falls below 7 degrees Celsius, the material in all-season tires hardens and loses traction. Nobody likes sliding uncontrollably through icy streets or being stranded on the side of the road after a spinout.
Winter tires are designed to remain flexible in cold temperatures (7 C or lower), allowing them to spread out and provide better traction. In addition, winter tires have tread patterns that are designed to push water away from the sides of the tire, allowing the tire to maintain better contact with the road surface.
Winter Tire Types
When it comes to driving in winter conditions, having the right tire is critical. Winter roads are extremely unpredictable, from heavy snowfall to black ice. These conditions put tires to the test in ways that no other season does. Winter tires, which are specially designed to perform in winter conditions, are best suited to the combination of cold temperatures, ice, and snow. Winter tires have distinct characteristics such as tread rubber, tread depth and patterns, and biting edges.
Winter tires may not be adequate if you live outside of major cities or urban areas, or if you frequently drive on less-traveled roads that aren't always fully paved, plowed, or salted. You might want to consider studded tires in these conditions. Icy roads, in particular, are ideal for studded tires. They can cut through layers of ice on the road to provide superior grip and traction that far outperforms what a set of winter tires can offer.
Don't get caught in the snow, book your winter tire change over today!
Contact us at Stettler Dodge in Stettler, Alberta, if you have any other questions about when to get a winter tire change-over. You can also schedule an appointment with our experienced Service Centre to change your tires today!