A Handy Guide to Winter Tire Change Season

Importance of Winter Tires & the Perfect Time to Make the Change

Autumn is in full swing, and the drop in temperature is a reminder that winter is just around the corner. As mornings are getting colder, now is the ideal time to switch to winter tires. Designed for cold, icy, and snowy conditions, winter tires offer superior traction, handling, and safety—keeping you prepared before the first snowfall. Moreover, the experts at Barry Cullen Chevrolet also emphasize that having the right pair of snow tires gives drivers the confidence to navigate slippery roads confidently. Read on to learn more about the importance of switching to winter tires and when the best time is to do it. 

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Why is Changing to Winter Tires so Important?

• Winter tires feature a different tread pattern and broader grooves, which offer optimal traction and balance, making them ideal to use on slippery and snowy winter roads. 
• Most snow tires feature deeper sipes, which are slit cuts in the tire tread that push water away on the road, providing stability and grip while preventing hydroplaning. These sipes also help maintain better contact with the road, avoiding slippage while keeping everyone aboard safe. 
• Winter tires embrace a softer rubber compound that offers more flexibility, especially in freezing temperatures.
• Compared to summer or all-season tires, winter tires prevent slippage by more than three times, curbing severe accidents on sloppy winter roads covered in black ice, slush and winter salt to provide a sense of security and make winter driving less stressful and more manageable. 

When Is the Perfect Time to Switch to Snow Tires?

The experts at Barry Cullen Chevrolet recommend swapping to snow tires when the average temperatures consistently stay at or drop below 7°C for a week or so. Keeping an eye on the temperature is important, as the harder rubber compound of summer and all-season tires gets stiff and loses grip at these temperatures. Additionally, the best time to switch your tires is before the first snowfall, ensuring you’re well-prepared for proper grip on slippery roads ahead. 

Shop For Winter Tires at Barry Cullen Chevrolet

Need a new set of winter tires for your Chevrolet? Visit Barry Cullen Chevrolet in Guelph, Ontario, to shop for high-quality winter tires. We also offer tire swap service at our dealership, so if you’re looking to switch your existing tires to snow tires, please call us at 519-824-0210 to schedule an appointment. Got any questions? Visit our dealership, and we will be happy to help you!