When to Change to Winter Tires

As a rule, you should plan to switch from summer tires to winter tires when the temperature dips below 7° C. Why change to winter tires? Summer tires and all-season tires can’t provide the traction and control you need in the kind of freezing temperatures and icy road conditions we experience here in Dartmouth. Learn more about when to change to winter tires and explore the differences of summer vs. winter tires in this guide from the experts in the MacPhee Ford Tire Centre.

Why Change to Winter Tires?

Some Bedford drivers think that all-season tires are okay to run on year-round, but that simply is not the case. Winter tires are designed specifically to provide safe and reliable performance in severe winter road conditions, enhancing traction, handling, and braking. The tread compound of winter tires will stay soft and flexible in cold weather, and their wider and deeper tread grooves will maximize grip and control in snow, ice, and slush. Some winter tires also feature studs in the tread to further improve traction. A few of the key advantages of winter tires include:

• Winter tires are more flexible as temperature drops, meaning they can conform better to the road for more controlled handling.
• They feature unique tread patterns with wider grooves for maximum traction.
• Sackville-area drivers will experience superior resistance against hydroplaning with winter tires.

Summer vs. Winter Tires

Due to their unique design, winter tires are not as smooth to drive on in dry road conditions, especially if they feature studs. In addition, the special rubber composition of winter tires will wear out faster if driven in warm weather. So when the temperature jumps back up above 7° C, it’s time to swap out your winter tires for summer tires. 

What’s the primary difference between summer vs. winter tires? Summer tires are designed to provide the sure handling you need on both dry and wet roads in warmer conditions. Winter tires provide superior grip on road surfaces covered with snow and ice, as well as wet roads in cold conditions.

For Expert Tire Care Turn to MacPhee Ford

Along with swapping out your summer tires for winter tires, you should also make sure to check the tread depth and tire pressure on a regular basis and keep up-to-date on your tire rotation schedule. Whether you need help changing your summer tires to winter tires, want to find out what numbers on your tires mean, or are looking for a new set of tires for your Ford F-150 near Halifax, you can rely on the professional team at MacPhee Ford. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our Service Centre.