It is unclear when spring will arrive, so when should you change your car’s winter tires? Considering the temperatures and snow, you should leave them on for now.
On Friday, Wiarton Willie scurried out of his hole and saw his shadow, predicting another six weeks of winter. Considering the weather forecast for this week it seems he might be right!
When Should I Change My Winter Tires?
This winter, temperatures have been unpredictable. When the average daily temperatures are over 7 degrees Celsius, it is safe to trade your winter tires for summer or all-season tires. If you change your winter tires and a freak snowstorm hits at the end of April, your all-season tires should be okay for the day. Slow down and allow yourself extra traveling time.
Why Should I Change My Winter Tires?
It is important to change your winter tires when the average daily temperature is warmer for the following reasons:
- Hot pavement will cause winter tires to wear down faster and lose their grip as temperatures climb. If you want to get the maximum life from your winter tires, don’t keep them on year-round.
- Changing your tires to match weather conditions reduces your chances of getting into an accident. According to tests done by CAA, drivers who kept their winter tires on in warmer
months had less control of their vehicle and needed more time to stop safely. In dry conditions, the impairment began when drivers reached speeds of 50 km/h. In wet conditions, the impairment began with even less speed. - Changing your winter tires can also save you money on gas. Summer tires have lower rolling resistance than winter tires, so your vehicle uses less energy to move forward. Not only are you reducing fuel consumption, but you are also protecting the environment by reducing your emissions.
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