As the temperatures start falling, and we find ice and frost on our windshields in the morning, all of us put on our sweaters, jackets, boots and maybe hats and scarves to compensate. We wouldn’t think twice about slipping on a pair of gloves for the cold, but when it comes to the tires on our cars, how much thought do we give to traction, stability and being as safe as possible on the roads?
Think of it like shoes. Yes, you can wear your sneakers outside in a snow storm. You won’t fall over like a giraffe on ice—at least, not immediately. But put you—or that giraffe—in a pair or two of spiked snow shoes, and you’ll be clomping around with ease.
Wind? What wind! Nor’easter? Never mind!
For a more scientific explanation of how winter tires work, check out the following from AOL’s Auto Site:
“Winter tires gain their advantage not only because they have superior tread patterns that are designed for traction on ice and snow, but because they employ ‘softer’ rubber compounds to enhance grip. This winter rubber is designed to perform, not only when there’s snow and ice on the pavement, but in cold temperatures on dry pavement. This is why winter tires are not suitable for summer, warm-weather driving, as their softer rubber and more open tread pattern will wear rapidly. Likewise, low-profile summer performance tires are terrible in cold temperatures. All-season tires compromise their winter ability in order to be used during the summer.”
Of course, the reason most people don’t get winter tires is cost. But when you consider the average cost of car repair—which is more likely in snowy, icey, or just plain cold conditions—the price of winter tires makes more sense. From the above article:
“The other factor that many drivers do not employ in their ‘can I afford winter tires?’ math is that the use of winter tires prolongs the life of your primary tires. … Think of it this way: Instead of buying two sets of all-season tires over the lifetime of your car, you’re buying a set of all season tires and a set of snow tires. Really, the only extra cost is the additional set of wheels.”
If you decide to look into a set of winter tires, Leith Porsche’s Parts Center would love to listen to your questions, and help you stay safe. Plus, we’ll meet or beat any lower price you find. Happy driving!
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