When the snow melts and temperatures start to rise, many drivers wonder if they can leave their winter tires on year-round. While it might seem like a convenient option, using winter tires in warm weather can lead to reduced performance, faster wear, and even safety issues. In this blog post, we’ll explain why it’s important to switch out your tires each season and how it impacts your vehicle’s performance.
What Are Winter Tires Made For?
Winter tires, also known as snow tires, are specifically designed for cold temperatures, snow, and ice. They are made with a softer rubber compound that stays flexible even in freezing conditions, helping your vehicle grip the road better in winter weather.
Key Features of Winter Tires:
- Deeper tread patterns for enhanced traction
- Softer rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold
- Biting edges to grip ice and snow
These features are essential in winter but become a liability as temperatures warm up.
What Happens When You Use Winter Tires in Warm Weather?
When driven on warm pavement, winter tires wear down much faster than all-season or summer tires. The softer rubber heats up quickly, causing it to lose shape and performance over time. This leads to:
- Premature tire wear
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Reduced handling and braking ability
- Increased road noise
Not only is it unsafe, but it can also cost you more in the long run.
Why You Should Switch to All-Season or Summer Tires
Switching to all-season or summer tires when temperatures consistently rise above 7°C is one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your tires and keep your vehicle running efficiently. All-season tires are designed to handle warmer temperatures and provide optimal performance on dry and wet roads.
Benefits of Switching:
- Better fuel economy
- Longer tire life
- Improved handling and braking
- A quieter, smoother ride
When Should You Make the Switch?
A good rule of thumb is to switch tires when the average daily temperature is consistently above 7°C. In Oakville, this typically happens around late March or early April.
Book Your Tire Change in Oakville Today
At NMT Auto Service in Oakville, we make seasonal tire changes easy and affordable. We offer:
- Tire storage services
- Tire balancing and alignment
- Tire inspection and replacements
Let our experienced team help you choose the right tires for your driving needs.
Contact us today to book your spring tire change!