Tires are crucial to your vehicle's overall safety. When they are properly inflated and have plenty of tread, you're less likely to lose control and have a crash. However, when the weather turns cold, you might be surprised to learn that even new, all-season tires may not be safest for winter driving. Even if your vehicle has all-wheel or four-wheel drive, there are some important reasons to opt for winter tires during the cold season.

Why You Should Invest in Winter Tires

1. More Flexibility 

The rubber used for all-season tires is harder and stiffens when the temperature drops, preventing the tread from fully gripping the road. This can cause your car to slip and slide when you hit the brakes or steer around corners. On the other hand, winter tires are made using a softer rubber compound that ensures more flexibility and lets them better grip the road, essential during slippery driving conditions. 

2. Improved Traction

When you drive on snowy roads with all-season tires, snow fills the treads, reducing grip. Yet, winter sets are made with deeper treads in a pattern that prevents snow from building up on them. They also have a more aggressive tread pattern designed to push snow, slush, and water out, giving you better traction in challenging conditions. Additionally, the edges of winter tires have thousands of tiny slits to provide more traction on ice, reducing the likelihood of sliding. 

3. Hydroplaning Resistance 

Driving too fast on wet roads can lead to hydroplaning, where the tires lose contact with the pavement, causing the vehicle to skim across the water's surface. A driver has little to no control over a hydroplaning car, which can lead to a crash. Although all-season sets are designed for wet and dry road conditions, heavy winter rain and slush can be more than the tread can handle. For this reason, winter tires have increased tread depth, ensuring that they maintain contact with the pavement at all times, even at higher speeds. 

If you drive in a climate that calls for winter tires, visit Warrenton Tire & Muffler Inc. in Missouri. With over four decades of experience, their team of ASE^®-certified repair technicians is qualified to help you with all your auto repair and maintenance needs. Visit them online for a complete list of services, or call (636) 456-4355 to request a quote.