Do You Need Winter Tires?

You've probably heard people talk about “winter” or “snow” tires.  For many of us that travel on major roads and don't live in a place that has harsh winters, the “all season” tires will be just fine.

“Winter” or “snow” tires come are made with a different kind of tread.  They have these special raised areas on the tires that will do a better job of digging into the snow or ice, and are particularly useful if you find yourself on back roads that are not plowed, or substantial inclines.  More often than not, winter tires and chains are recommended in places like Colorado or areas with mountainous terrain.  If you live someplace with a relatively mild winter mild winter, snow tires might be overkill.

That being said, now would be a good time to make sure that the tires you do have are ready for the upcoming change in weather.  Long hot summers can be taxing on tires.  The heat starts to break down the rubber, and if you parked in direct sunlight, don't be surprised if your tires are showing some cracks.

The change in temperature will also cause your tires to expand and contract.  This kind of thing will actually change the air pressure in your tires, and cause stresses on them, too.  Don't be surprised if you get up in the morning and your tires have a little less air than they did when you went to sleep. 

With all the advances made in engines and internal technology, everything still comes back to those round rubber things.  They are the thing that keeps you safely on the road, and makes sure you stop in plenty of time.  Check them now, before the winter weather starts to fly.

Stop Winter Stopping Problems

OK, so the seasons are going to change.  We can’t stop that.  However, it’s not a bad idea to do something about your brakes so you can’t count on stopping during winter.  

Before we even talk about the brakes themselves, let’s make sure the brake fluid is at the proper levels.  Your brake fluid is the stuff that is actually moving the pistons around to apply pressure and make your brakes work.  Fluids will move slowly in the winter, and if the levels are off, that can add up to a number of problems.  The brakes themselves may be fine, but if the brake fluid is leaking, low, or just not there… you will definitely have some challenges. 

Another consideration are the shoes.  No… not the brake shoes, but your shoes.  Believe it or not, many accidents occur each year because people have on wet, slippery shoes.  Their feet slide off the edge, and there just isn’t time to recover.  So… dry your shoes. 

And, of course, know what type of brakes you have.  If they are standard brakes, you’ll need to pump them slightly on slippery roads.  If you have an anti-lock brakes (ABS), the brakes will do the pumping for you.  Just apply as normal, and always keep eye contact with the road. 

Yes, your brakes are important… but the other things around the brakes are just as vital.  Stay safe!

Avoiding Costly Repairs in Winter

While we would love to take care of your car should anything happen, we would rather you not get into a horrible accident during the winter and be forced to see us.  Maintenance is one thing. Repair because of an accident is another.

Avoid this!

 So, here are a few tips to avoid costly repairs while driving in winter conditions.

Check your tires:  you will lose 1 pound of tire pressure for every 10 degree drop in temperature.  Check your tire pressure RIGHT NOW!  Maintaining proper tire pressure help with traction AND improve your fuel economy. Also, even if you have all-season tires, you need to watch your speed. These tires also have reduced performance at cold temperatures.

Check your fluids:  We recently wrote about the importance of checking fluids before it started getting too cold. If you haven’t yet, do it now…with windshield-washer fluid being key right now.  Also, keep your gas tank at least half filled. Your lines could freeze.

Be Prepared to Dig Out: If you spin out into a snow bank or even off the side of the road in a little bit of ice and snow, do not let your wheels spin in an attempt to get out. Have a shovel in the trunk and sand to help with traction. You can even use kitty litter thrown under the tire to help.

Keep Your Eyes on the Road: Potholes, debris…hidden in the snow. If you hit something like a pothole, be prepared for some bent rims or axles as well as alignment issues. And, be weary of ice flying off of cars in front of you. That can damage the windshield.