Everything You Need to Know About Winter Tires

 

The area around Peoria, Bloomington, and Morton receives on average 23 inches of snow per year. To be properly prepared for driving in snowy or icy road conditions, it is strongly recommended that you swap out your standard all-season tires for winter tires. Some of the advantages of winter tires include:

 
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• They are more flexible as temperature drops, meaning they can conform better to the road for more controlled handling.
• They boast wider and deeper tread grooves for enhanced traction.
• They provide superior resistance against hydroplaning

Installing winter tires in Central Illinois is incredibly important for safe driving when the roads are covered by snow or ice. Learn more about all that winter tires have to offer in this guide from the service experts at Sam Leman Automotive Group.

When to Put On Winter Tires

The best way to prepare for the winter months and prevent problems before they occur is to install winter tires on your car, truck, or SUV. Wondering when to put on winter tires? It is recommended that you switch to winter titres when the temperature drops to below 46-degrees Fahrenheit. Since winter tires are manufactured using a tread compound that will stay soft and flexible in cold weather, and have wider and deeper tread grooves and often feature studs in the tread, they can maximize traction and control in snow, ice, and slush. It is also important to note that rural roads are not serviced as often as roads in city/suburban areas, so winter tires will definitely boost your safety during the snowy months if you drive outside urban areas.

How Long Do Winter Tires Last?

Investing in a set of winter tires will greatly improve your safety during the cold months, but how long do winter tires last? Most manufacturers say that the average winter tire will last 3 to 4 seasons. It is important to properly store your winter tires when not in use. They should be cleaned and placed in an airtight plastic bag, and kept in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space.

Can I Drive Winter Tires Year Round?

A common question is, “Can I drive on winter tires year round?” Due to their specific design, winter tires are not as smooth to drive on in dry or wet road conditions, especially if they feature studs. And because of the unique rubber composition of winter tires, they will wear out faster if driven in warm weather. Therefore, it is recommended that you swap out your winter tires for all-season tires when the weather warms up. If you need help replacing your winter tires, you can count on the service team at Sam Leman Automotive Group.

Visit Sam Leman Automotive Group for All of Your Tire Care Needs

The tire care experts at our dealerships in Peoria, Bloomington, and Morton are standing by to help you swap out your all-season tires to winter tires. We can provide advice on how to prepare a winter emergency car kit, so you can take to the road with confidence this winter. Our team can also take care of your next tire rotation or wheel alignment, as well as help you decipher the tire number code. Please reach out if you have any questions.