subject: Good Quality Winter Tires [print this page] The winter tires are the specially designed tires with a different type of rubber composition to give better performance in winter conditions like ice, snow and also in lower temperatures. So they are also called snow tires. Because of their special design and different rubber composition, they offer better control and traction so that you can control your vehicle much better while driving in slippery conditions.
The natural rubber and silica are the main materials that are used to manufacture them. So they provide more flexibility even when the temperature becomes too low. The other important feature of winter tires is their tread design. Since the tread is more flexible, it will help you to prevent the snow buildup and provide you much better handling and braking for your vehicle so that you can drive confidently on ice and snow. So, you are advised to use them, if you are regularly encountering unplowed snow or ice.
Features of winter tires
As mentioned above, the main important feature of winter tires is the special tread design. When compared to other types they have more small-tread areas which will give you extra traction and allow the water to escape more easily from them. Because of the special rubber compound used in this type, it will provide a much better breaking and handling performance to control your vehicle safely. They also provide a much better traction on ice.
Things to remember during the purchase and installation
There are several things you have to keep in mind during the purchasing and installing of winter tires. First of all, you have to check whether they have the symbol of snow tires that is the pictogram of a mountain peak with a snowflake. If the winter season started, dont wait for the last minute to purchase them because it may severely affect your vehicle. You have to choose them according to the technical characteristics of your vehicle. So you are advised to read the general guide or contact the experts.
The next thing you have to consider is the rims. You are advised to use separate rims for the winter tires because it will help you to save the time and money for balancing them onto the existing rims. Driving them on warm and dry roads can wear out them prematurely. So you should keep them off after the winter season.
Storing of winter tires
Since they are made by soft rubber compound, it may wear out in warm conditions. So you have to keep them in a cool and dry place such as garage or basement by laying them down and keep one over the other. If you dont have such places to keep them safely, then you can buy a storage bag to store them. These bags will protect them from the ozone present in the air which can cause the tire to crack and dry.
Prices of winter tires
Now-a-days, every brand offers a wide range of winter tires. The price of these vary according to the quality and technical features needed for your vehicle. But, before buying them, make sure that they are not expired.
