Are Snow Tires Really Necessary?

Certain areas of the country are covered in snow during the winter. Many people use the time before the severe weather to winterize their cars. They are checking fluid levels, changing engine oil, and installing snow tires. Snow tires are meant to provide more secure traction between the car and the road. With the option of all-season tires on the market, are snow tires necessary? When searching for the right tire, you should make sure that you consult your car manual so that you will get the right size for your car. You can also get recommendations from your mechanic or ASE master technician. 

The Basics of the Snow Tire

Snow tires are made from a higher quality, sturdier rubber and a more pronounced tread. The treads may be deeper or the tire may have hard studs on the tread to increase grip. The rubber is usually softer which allows it to form more to the road and increase traction. They get their designation from the Rubber Manufacturers Association. Snow tires must adhere to specific criteria to be considered snow tires. At least one-fourth of the tire surface must be grooved as this increases traction and have specific dimensions that are stringently enforced. It must also pass traction testing in order to be designated as snow tires. If you install snow tires as part of your winter safety preparation, you should install them for all four tires. 

The Advantages of the Snow Tire

These tires offer superior traction over all-season tires. Its softer, special rubber does not lose flexibility in freezing temperatures. In areas that experience temperature drops below the freezing mark, this feature is important because the tire needs to be able to respond to the peculiar winter conditions. The deeper tread design means that the tires will be able to grip the road, even when the surface is covered in ice, snow, slush, and rain. The car will be less likely to hydroplane and possibly cause an accident. Each tread in the tire is designed in a manner that allows it remain flexible for better response. Snow tires with nubs, or studs built into the tread that allows the tread to flex open and close in a manner that squeegees water from beneath the tires while driving. 

The Disadvantages of the Snow Tire

Because these tires are made of a softer rubber, driving them on dry pavement produces a mushy feel. These tires do not grip dry pavement as well as it does wet pavement; therefore, it is unwise to use them year-round. When the weather warms, the tires will warm and the rubber will become overly soft. This softening will create a dangerous driving situation, especially when the weather cools again. If you use low-profile tires, you may find it difficult to find snow tires to fit your car. As the low-profile trend advances, the search will become easier. Snow tires can also give some drivers the false sense of security and may drive a little too fast for conditions. Too-rapid acceleration or speeding on slippery surfaces can compromise your ability to steer or stop your car. If you choose to use snow tires during the winter, make sure that you monitor and maintain the right tire pressure and have a wheel alignment done each winter season.