Winter Tires, What You Want To Know

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By Chris Taylor


Very like a great pair of winter boots, snow tires are engineered to improve traction and handling in greasy conditions. While all-season tires are sometimes called "mud and snow" tires, they are not really meant for use in the types of heavy snow conditions most Canadians face each winter.

In reality winter tires are imperative in Quebec because of the heavy snowfall they receive every winter. Even though you have got a car with four-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes or electronic equilibrium control, your tires still need to be in a position to grip the road for these features to do their roles properly.

Scrimping cuts safety

Some drivers opt to put snow tires only on the front spindle, thinking it will give them added traction for less money; however , this basically causes a major safety hazard. Tires ensure efficient braking as well as traction, but your car wants equal distribution of both to avoid spinning out. If you have snow tires only at the front of a front-wheel drive vehicle, the back-end can simply slide off course.

You wouldn't wear one boot and one jogging shoe to stroll in the snow; in the same way, your car desires 4 tires of the same type, size, speed rating and load index for a safe, smooth ride. Mixing tires with different tread patterns, internal construction or size can lead to serious steadiness and issues of safety.

Tips for buying

Always ensure the tires you are purchasing are the proper size and type for your auto to guarantee your safety and maintain your guaranty; check your auto owner's manual for the manufacturer's commended tire size or speak to your car dealer.

The two major elements to search for are tread design and type of rubber compound.

- The treadaffects the tire performance; the more snow you have got to drive through, the more grip you'll want from your tires. Tires have either a V-shaped or zigzag design on the tread to help to keep tire grooves clear of the snow and slush that contribute seriously to winter road accidents.
- The pliancy of the rubberin the tire also makes a contribution to performance; the more flexible the tire's rubber, the more satisfactory its grip and performance. Most all-season tires begin to harden at 7C and lose flexibility below "15C. However , most winter tires don't lose elasticity till "40C. Even in dry conditions, snow tires maintain pliancy well below freezing.

Look for tires that will nearest match the road conditions you'll drive on most frequently. If you frequently drive on unplowed roads or in mountainous areas, you may want to consider studded tires for additional grip. Check with the transportation ministry in your neighborhood to discover if studded tires are authorized, and when you need to use them.

What about tire chains?

In the more mountainous and snowy areas of Canada, particularly around UK Columbia, tire chains are not just a brilliant idea, but also an obligation. In certain designated areas, you are required to use winter tires, plus carry chains in your car and be ready to install them. Signs with a flashing amber light imply that you cannot safely proceed without the chains installed.

To use tire chains correctly, fit them closely to the tire and ensure the links are not twisted. Avoid driving over 50 km per hour or on bare pavement, and be sure to change the chains when they become damaged.




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