A Comprehensive Guide to Winter Tires
Changing Your Tires for the Winter Can Prevent Headaches Later
Nov 27, 2008
Winter driving can be a challenge, so ensuring a car’s tires are up to the task can give drivers extra piece of mind. In colder and snowier climes, using snow (or winter) tires may be a good idea for safety reasons.
Snow tires are different from the standard radials placed on cars, which are commonly referred to as “all season” tires. The tread plays a big part of this: the edges “bite” into the snow and ice better to give increased traction, and the rubber composition of the tire is softer.
This softer rubber allows the tire to be more flexible, which in turn prevents snow buildup between the tread. It also grips on ice better and provides more traction.
Why All-Season Tires Aren’t Good in the Winter
The name says it all. By definition, all season tiress are designed to be good in all types of weather conditions. Thus, the tire will likely perform as good as it does in the rain as it would in a light snowfall or on dry roads, essentially "average" performance.
Another problem with these tires is the rigidity of the rubber. Since it is more stiff, the tread will not flex as much. Whereas snow and ice can be dislodged by the tire itself easier with a winter tire, with all-seasons there is somewhat of the opposite effect, and the packed-in snow and ice will cause a loss of traction.
In some regions, all season tires will be sufficient for wintertime driving. If the climate is mild or wet, or snowfall is typically limited, then all seasons should not be a problem.
Winter Tire Basics
As the name suggests, winter tires are not a year-round solution. While they perform very well in winter conditions, on dry roads in some cases performance will be degraded when compared to an all season radial. Tread wear can also be an issue with these tires, which explains why the tire manufacturers will not give warranties for early tread wear. In the spring when roads are clear, they should be removed.
Another option is something called studs, which are essentially metal posts imbedded into the tire which add to the traction capabilities of the tire. It should be noted however that tire noise is obviously greater, and in some locales these are either restricted or banned entirely. Check with local authorities for specific policies.
When looking for a winter tire, be sure to confirm it has a mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall. This confirms that the tire has passed industry standards for performance in severe winter conditions.
What Winter Tires are the Best?
According to ConsumerSearch.com, which compiled reviews of different snow tires, the best tire reviewed was the Michelin X-Ice Xi2, which comes in at an estimated $90 per tire. Road noise with this tire was low, and it handled all road conditions well.
For those on a budget, the site recommended the Dunlop Graspic DS-2 at $70 per tire, although added its performance wasn’t as good as higher-end models. If studded tires are being considered, ConsumerSearch recommended the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5, which retails for around $165.
Other brands receiving high marks were the Bridgestone Blizzak, Dunlop Winter Sports, Goodyear Eagle Ultra Grips, and Yokohama Ice Guards. Prices ranged from a $80 to $135 per tire.
Consumer Reports also seemed to suggest that Bridgestone's tires as well as Goodyear were "impressive" in tests.
While winter tires can certainly help conquer snowy roads, some common sense can help as well. Experts suggest that drivers follow some simple rules such as slowing down, or being prepared before venturing out.
For more information: Winter Driving Tips
Sources: Winter Tires, Consumer Reports
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