Living in Minnesota means dealing with long and freezing winters, causing many drivers anxiety about driving in harsh conditions. We’ve all experienced those nerve-wracking drives in a blizzard or on icy roads, but with winter tires, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are a few benefits of winter tires:
The Benefits
Shorter braking distance
While you may be driving carefully and allowing for plenty of space between the car in front of you, that doesn’t mean other drivers are. Even if everyone is driving slowly and with caution, accidents happen, like hitting a patch of ice and spinning out. If the vehicle in front of you loses control, you need to be able to brake fast to avoid a collision.
Better traction
If the snow plows haven’t come around yet or the snow is piling up quickly on the roads, you’ll need to rely on your tires to keep you moving. If you don’t have four-wheel drive, it’s easy to get stuck in the snow without winter tires. This is also essential when driving on icy roads or in slippery conditions.
More control
Winter tires are designed to grip the road better than all-season ones, giving you more steering control when driving in rough weather. In extremely cold temperatures, the tread on all-season tires will harden, resulting in a reduced grip on the road. The rubber on winter tires is much more flexible, so extreme temps won’t affect their performance.
Winter Tire FAQs
When should I get them installed?
Early-to-mid November is a good time to get your winter tires on, especially in Minnesota. We start dealing with freezing temps and snowy roads long before the official start to winter.
How long do they last?
The lifetime of your tires heavily depends on how you maintain them. They need tire rotations and balancing just like all-season tires, which will extend their life and help you get the most out of them. They’ll typically last for three or four seasons when properly taken care of.
Are they worth it?
They absolutely are! In addition to the benefits listed above, you’ll have more peace of mind while driving knowing that they’re keeping you safer on the road. The cost of tires varies, so check with your local auto service shop about pricing.
We hope you stay safe on the roads this winter! If you’re planning on getting winter tires, make your appointment soon, as our schedule tends to fill up quickly. Auto Works is proud to be The Place Your Neighbors Trust.