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Still Driving on Winter Tires? Here’s why you shouldn’t…

Service May 04th, 2023

Why You Should Swap Your Winter Tires Once Spring Arrives

A common question we get asked is "When is it the right time to swap my winter tires for summers or all seasons?". The short answer is, as soon as the temperature stays consistently over  7 °C (46 °F), you should get your tires swapped over. Period.

Reason 1: Using the Right Tires for the Season Means Your Tires Will Last Longer

The softer tread on a winter tire wears out a lot quicker on the warm asphalt. The rubber compound is formulated to stay soft and pliable when temperatures plummet below 7 °C (46 °F). This is very effective for mitigating the negative impact of cold temperatures and provides traction in winter conditions.

However, if you drive with a set of winter tires throughout the year, that same flexible tread will wear down quicker in warmer temperatures, reducing the service life by as much as 60 percent. There’s a strong chance you’d have to replace them earlier than if you’d simply had them removed at the beginning of spring.

Reason 2: Using the Right Tires Means Better Fuel Consumption

If you decide to use winter tires in summer, another good thing to know is that you will end up paying more for fuel.

On hot pavement, the rolling resistance of a winter tire is much higher than a summer or all-season tire. That's because the softer rubber compound changes shape more. This leads to higher rolling resistance, which results in an increase in fuel consumption, which means you will need to visit the gas station more often than usual.

Reason 3: It's Safer

If you don't switch to all-season or summer tires during the warm summer months, your car will not have optimal handling capabilities for safety – especially if you're forced to make sudden turns.

Imagine a scenario where a driver has to make an emergency maneuver. Winter tires on dry pavement will be too soft. The handling will not be as responsive as should be in a critical situation. Also, the stopping distance gets extended.

From a long-term perspective, winter tires which have been kept on throughout the spring, summer, and fall all the way until the next winter will most likely have worn tread blocks (because of their softer compound). Winter tires with insufficient tread depth will not provide as much grip or traction on snowy and icy surfaces, which is a major factor influencing driving safety.

If you've put off having your tires swapped, don't worry: North Edmonton Kia still has openings for tire swaps starting at just $49.95.

Click the link below to book your swap!

 

North Edmonton KiaServiceStill Driving on Winter Tires? Here’s why you shouldn’t…