5 Myths About All-Season & Winter Tires

The most important component of a vehicle is its tires. They are responsible for making vehicles turn, move, and stop. Many drivers and their owners assume they are part of the vehicle's mechanical and material science. Here are five myths about winter and all-season tires.

1. All-season tires are more adept at handling wet roads than summer tires. Tire design is a process of compromise. Increasing one performance factor almost always results in reducing another. All-season tires are designed by engineers who sacrifice traction on wet roads in favor of better steering in snow or sub-freezing temperatures. This compromise is made by choosing materials that are flexible in low temperatures but have a loose grip on the road when wet.

2. Winter tires are for snow only. Winter tires are flexible below 7 degrees Celsius because of the rubber compounds and other components. This flexibility allows tires to provide improved vehicle handling and stopping even in conditions where there isn't snow or temperatures are low.

3. Winter tires are fine for all-season tires. All-season tires work well in mild weather, but winter tires can be more effective for those who experience snow and colder temperatures. They can withstand freezing temperatures thanks to their flexible rubber. Their deep alignment shop tread makes it safer to drive in snow, slush, and snow. Winter tires are able to last for up to 25% to 50% longer than all-season tires thanks to their flexible compounds and specialized tread designs. The life expectancy of both sets is extended if drivers alternate between them. In the long term, they will also save money.

4. Winter tires can be more expensive. Winter tires are more expensive than any other type of tire.

5. You don't need winter tires if you have four-wheel drive. Although the four-wheel drive can help control tires, it doesn't mean that the tires aren't flexible enough.