Replacing your car tires with winter tires is certainly an investment, but it’s well worth it. No price can be placed on your safety and that of your family. Plus, driving with well-balanced and evenly worn tires is also key to enjoying optimal gas mileage.
Not sure whether your car’s tires are in good enough shape to weather the winter? Contact your trusted mechanic and have him give them the once over. He’ll let you know whether your tires are the right type and/or whether the tread is sufficient enough to transport you safely through the winter.
In the meantime, here are 5 of the most frequently asked questions we receive about winter tires and seasonal tire replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are snow tires really necessary? Won’t my all-weather tires suffice?
Yes and no. Snow tires are necessary in an area that receives regular snowfall and experiences icy roads on a routine basis. All-weather tires are designed for locations that only experience the occasional snowy and icy road.
Snow tires, are different from regular and even all-weather tires in two ways. First, they have a deeper and more uniquely patterned tread that are designed to increase traction in snow and ice. Second, they are slightly softer than regular tires, so they remain more malleable and flexible in freezing temperatures.
2. Isn’t it expensive to switch from regular tires to winter tires every year?
Mounting your tires can be expensive, changing whole tires that are already mounted is relatively inexpensive. Your car mechanic can help you find a set of four wheels that are compatible with your car and mount them with snow tires. Then, changing your 3-season tires for winter tires each year will be quick, easy and inexpensive. Your snow tires should last you for several winters in a row when you use this strategy.
3. My new snow tires are nosier and don’t seem to handle the road as well. Is something wrong?
In most cases, no. It takes a few weeks to get used to the feeling of winter tires. The deeper treads and unique tread patterns will make your drive a little noisier and the more flexible materials can make it feel like your car isn’t as responsive as it was before.
Just take a little time to get used to the change and (always) avoid driving aggressively – using easy acceleration, cornering and braking techniques. However, if you are still in doubt, take your car in immediately in case there is an issue or tire repair in order.
4. Are there features that enhance car tires’ performance?
Yes. All-wheel or 4-wheel drive, antilock brakes and special anti-slip technology that can be engaged as needed will all help to improve your tires’ performance in inclement weather conditions.
5. What if I can’t afford snow tires this winter?
First, we understand how difficult it can be to come up with extra money during the winter and holiday season. However, there are often ways to finance your tires and, as mentioned above, you will be investing in the tires for many years to come since they can be used for multiple seasons.
Secondly, consider that since Quebec made snow tires mandatory, winter injuries resulting from accidents have decreased by 5%. Enhanced safety is a worthwhile investment. Talk to your mechanic about your options.
Otherwise, ensure that your own tires are in good shape with plenty of tread. Have them inspected and move forward with any tire repairs recommended by your mechanic.
Have questions about snow tires or your options for weathering a safe and healthy winter season this year? Contact Peter’s Auto Centre and schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you find a reasonable and affordable set of snow tires.
The Centre for All Your Car Needs
Peter’s Auto is the centre for all your car needs with over 20 years of experience in repairing a variety of cars along with up to date mechanics and equipment. Our knowledgeable and helpful staff will take care of all your auto service and repair needs.
Our shop is located in Kitchener, ON. We proudly serve the following areas: Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph.
Click Here to Schedule an Appointment for your next service or repair today! You can also contact us by phone at (519) 578-4533 or email: [email protected]
