You’re driving a 4×4! You’re set for the winter, right? Maybe…

I don’t want to be a wet blanket, but we all know what’s coming. Winter- Snow… Slush… Ice… Good times, right? What good is your 4×4 if all four of your tires are just spinning and making that special “Hey, look at me! I’m stuck!” noise?

Do I really need tires just for the winter?
Even if you don’t have a 4-wheel drive, your choice of tires can mean the difference between being stuck in the cold and having a nice drive in a winter wonderland.  We all know that tires are a compromise and a tire that’s fast on the street isn’t the one that’s most controllable in the snow.  Tires that offer great “grippy” control on a warm track become hard like plastic when the outside temp is below freezing.  Most all-season, touring, and performance tires today will focus on lasting longer, offering a quiet ride or better street performance… not traction in the icy cold.  You can’t rely on the electronic gizmos in your car either.  ABS and traction control only prevent the driver from overdoing on the brakes or overpowering whatever traction is available to the wheels.  The only thing that will actually increase traction on the road is use better tires.

Do I need to use 4 winter tires, or just 2?
I think every tire manufacturer out there and most every vehicle manufacturer will recommend that 4 winter tires be used on your vehicle, no matter if it’s rear wheel drive, front wheel drive, or all-wheel drive.  Road conditions in the winter create enough variables of their own and the last thing you need is for the front of your car to behave differently than the back of the car.  Make sure your vehicle handles as consistantly as possible by using matching winter tires.  You’ll be glad you did when you experience the better control when accelerating, braking, and handling.

But my car has front wheel drive!
Front wheel drive is a huge advantage over any rear wheel drive vehicle.  Part of a front wheel drive car’s advantage is that most of the weight in the car is over the drive wheels.  While this is awesome for getting the car moving, it does nothing to help you stop.  Also, the front-heavy configuration isn’t the best for corning and handling.  A good set of winter tires will enhance your front wheel drive experience

Aren’t winter tires expensive?
Winter tires (and even wheels) can be one of the most economical purchases you can make for your vehicle.  Your “fair weather” tires will last longer because they’re not being exposed to the harshness of winter and if you’re also using a set of winter wheels, they’ll take the brunt of the salt, chemicals, and slush. Considering the precious cargo you’re probably driving around, I don’t see how winter tires could be second guessed.

The service department at the Woody’s Automotive Group can get pretty much any tire at a fair price.  If you’re tired of gambling every time you drive your car in the snow and ice, stop by and see Matt today! | 888-869-0963 x24