Selecting winter or all-season tires for your car

Before making a decision, it's important to consider a few factors: 

• Where you live

• Your local weather conditions

• How low the seasonal temperature drops

A common question our technicians often get asked is:  “Do I need winter or all-season tires?” Unfortunately, there is no black and white answer because there are many variables to consider, such as your local legal requirements, your local climate, how often you drive and your budget. In general, all-season tires also offer high levels of safety and performance in moderate climates but let’s take a closer look at tire considerations that will help you decide.

Your location

Most European countries have their own regulations when it comes to winter tires (aka. snow tires). For some countries, winter tires are recommended, for others they are required by law. The first step to finding the type of tire you need is finding out whether winter tires are a legal requirement.

Weather conditions

Does the temperature often get low in winter? Then it may be safer for you to switch to winter tires for the season. They are made from a custom rubber compound that stays soft and flexible in low temperatures, which provides better traction. The enhanced tread pattern will also help you get through packed snow, slush and icy conditions. If the temperatures never go that low, tires designed for all-season conditions may be a great option for you. They combine key elements of both snow and all-weather tires, which means they provide reliable grip in rainy, wet and mild winter conditions.

Mileage

If you only use your car occasionally – perhaps for short shopping trips, going to work and visiting friends and family in urban locations – swapping tires twice a year may not be worth the cost, time and effort. Tires for all-season conditions could be an alternative. However, if you use your car often – especially for trips away, into remote locations or colder regions – swapping to snow tires is usually the safer option.

Keep in mind

• All-season tires can be used all year round and work well in mild winter conditions, but do not have the same winter-specific features as winter tires, so their performance in harsh winter weather is not as good. 

• Winter tires should not be used in summer, but they are perfectly suited to dealing with the specific challenges of winter driving. 

Do we have a verdict? If you're still indecisive, give us a call and speak to one of our specialists. We'd love to guide through making this decision! 

(860) 928-2886