How to Winterize Car Tires

As winter approaches, it’s important that your car is ready for the sudden change in temperature. Cold weather can have a significant impact on your vehicle, especially if you drive an older car, so it’s crucial that you take the necessary precautions. This is especially true for your tires if you expect to be driving through a lot of snow and ice during the winter. Today, Thompson Sales will offer some tips for winterizing your tires. 

Check Your Tire Tread and Traction

The impulse for many people during the winter, especially if you live in an area with a lot of snow, is to purchase snow tires during the winter. In many cases, that’s absolutely the best solution and Thompson Sales would recommend that course of action, too. However, before you go out and buy new tires, you should first check and see if you even need them.

The first thing that you should do when looking is to check your tire tread and traction. Often, snow or sleet is not what causes cars to slide, but rather tires that don’t have the proper tread. During a dry summer, you might be able to drive on bald tires, but during the winter you won’t be able to take the risk. 

Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

The air level in your tires is also a critical part of this process. Thompson Sales sees a lot of people that over-inflate their tires, which can be just as damaging as tires without enough air in them. As winter approaches, you’ll want to keep a closer eye on the air level of your tires, especially as the temperature begins to drop. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires will typically lose one pound per square inch (PSI) of air. Make sure you’re checking your tire pressure often to avoid driving on a flat. 

Buy Snow Tires

While it might not be the optimal solution, there are situations where buying snow tires is unavoidable. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of snow or have a vehicle that’s less capable of driving in snow and sleet, investing in snow tires might be your best answer. And while Thompson Sales understands the inconvenience in buying new tires, it’s better to be safe than risk an accident. 

Contact Thompson Sales For More Tips 

If you’re looking for tips for preparing your tires for winter, Thompson Sale is here to help. For more information or suggestions, give Thompson Sales a call at (417) 763-6811 or contact us online today.