Getting A Set of Seasonal Tires is More Than Just a Suggestion
Why Do You Need Seasonal Tires?
Our corner of the world is one of the most beautiful and unique places in the world. There are a lot of benefits that come with living here, but we all must contend with the our challenging weather and road conditions. The Terra Nova Buick GMC Service Department spends a fair amount of time explaining the reasons why our customers need seasonal tires. Just like there is a tool for every job, there is a set of tires to meet almost any driver’s needs. You wouldn’t use a subcompact hatchback to tow a trailer, so why would you expect one set of tires to be able to do everything. Let’s take a look at some information that might be helpful.
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When Should You Use Snow/Winter Tires?
If there is one thing that all Canadian drivers need to do, it’s safely operate an automobile during the winter. When the snow gets deep and roads are icy, winter tires are a must for vehicle owners. Canada’s Traffic Injury Research Foundation has conclusively found that snow or winter tires are the best way to stay safe while driving during our toughest season.
It’s has been debated if snow/winter are necessary for simple, every day city driving. The bottom line is this, the additional grip and performance of the tires at below-freezing temperatures is what is most important. Tires built for winter use a special rubber compound that will remain soft and pliable at the lowest temperatures, an important factor for safe driving.
Can You Use All-Season Tires for the Whole Year?
All-season tires are the most commonly used type of tire in the automotive industry. This is the kind of tire that most cars and SUVs leave the factory with. Some trucks will arrive with a more aggressive type of tire if required by a specific trim grade. All-season tires are great when the pavement is warm and dry, like during the summer and early fall. Even exceptionally rainy conditions shouldn’t present much of a problem for a healthy set of all-season tires. If someone plans to be driving in these conditions for an entire year, all-season tires could be a great choice. However, when the average ambient temperature falls below 7°C, the rubber starts to get stiff and it’s easier for the vehicle to lose control.
How Are Summer/High-Performance Tires Different?
Sports cars and other high-performance platforms require a totally different set of equipment. Summer or high-performance tires maximize grip and cornering potential when someone is driving on the out edge of the platform’s performance envelope. This kind of tire is typified by a shallower tread depth that is designed to quickly and efficiently channel water away from the tire. This has several implications for drivers, including excellent performance in the rain, as well as potentially better fuel economy. However, the chief drawbacks to summer tires include poor traction in cold weather because the rubber gets too stiff to be effective and should someone get caught in the snow with a set of summer tires the consequences could be dire.
Terra Nova Buick GMC Parts and Service Departments are always ready to help our customers get the most out of their vehicles. Make an appointment to see us if you need some help picking out a new set of tires for any application.