All You Need To Know Before Using Tyres In Winter

So if you plan on driving, which you likely will, you have to gear up. And getting your vehicle ready to sustain the road conditions in the frosty season begins with its tyres.

When you drive around your car or SUV in winters, you have to take additional precautions to ensure your protection. Therefore, pay special attention to the following elements regarding tyres before, during, and after a journey.

Fitting Winter Or All-season Tyres:

The road conditions during this season vary vastly from those of spring and summer. With snow, ice, rain, etc., as typical forms of precipitation, it is often difficult for your car to navigate through the roads. For instance, a hefty layer of snow on the streets yields a loss of traction. Similarly, icy, wet roads can cause your vehicle to slip due to hydroplaning. These can not only hinder your rides on a comfort level but also compromise your security.

But of course, you cannot lay off driving altogether. Whether it be a short trip to your workplace or a fun road trip, you need your car to function properly while keeping you safe. The best way to go about this is by fitting winter tyres in your vehicle, as they are customised to match the season.

When the temperature level starts dropping, the rubber begins to stiffen up. Excess additives required for summer tyres can account for this loss of flexibility. The high percentage of natural rubber in the composition of winter or snow tyres is an excellent solution for this issue. Besides, the softness of the rubber allows efficient braking and adhesion. The design of the tread, particularly its narrow sipes and grooves extending far down, also plays a vital role in car handling through the water and snow.

Various countries and states have different regulations in place about the use of winter tyres. However, if the climate in your area demands it, it is better to fit them, even without a legal mandate.

But when is the correct time to take your set of snow radials out of the storage unit? You have to be careful in this matter. That is because switching your tyres prematurely can cause the winter ones to erode quicker. But if you are too late, you risk your security due to their reduced performance on heated pavements.

However, it is significant to remember that not all winters are harsh enough to need snow tyres. A premium set of all-weathers does the job just as good without stressing about making the half-yearly switch.

Maintaining The Tread Depth And The Tyre Pressure:

The pattern on the tread of your tyres majorly defines its gripping abilities. With use, the tyre material wears out, causing it to lose its design. Thus, when the tread depth is low, the tyres cannot provide the necessary traction required for the roads in winter. There is a set threshold, keeping the depth above, which is a legal requirement. You can use a tread gauge or tread wear indicators to find the depth. If it is too low, you should swap out your current set of radials for a new one.

The air inside your Firestone Tyres Edgware is primarily responsible for running them. Optimal performance and mileage can only be achieved if this pressure is kept at a particular range. But when the thermometer indicates a fall in temperature, the inflation thrust will drop as well. Thus, it becomes pivotal to retain it properly. To do this, you first need to figure out the inflation specifications of your vehicle. Look for this information on the door jamb or in the manufacturer's guidebook. Always start with cold tyres; use a gauge and a compressor to check the pressure. In case of inflation, utilise the latter to fill some air in. Release some of it if the tyres are overinflated. Doing this every few weeks is a must, even if your vehicle has a tyre pressure monitoring system (TMPS) installed.

Just like the excruciating heat of summers affects your tyres, unforgiving winters, can too. Taking the correct measures is critical in this season. Mounting winter or all-season tyres Edgware and maintaining their features warrants an excellent performance. Thus, you can drive through the snow and sludge of winters without worry.