News

If you have lived in Bloomington, IL for any length of time, you know that the weather can get pretty rough in the winter. Bloomington averages over 20 inches of snowfall per year and it is not uncommon to see low temperatures in the teens throughout the winter months, making for icy road conditions. Because winter can be cold and snowy, it’s important to consider the benefits of having the correct winter tires for your vehicle.

 

 

Winter tires are better for snow and ice than all-season tires partly because of their composition. Winter tires are constructed of a softer rubber than all-season tires that stays flexible and temperatures plummet. Stiffer rubber would not conform as well to the road and be more likely to lose traction. Winter tires also typically have specialized tread patterns with deep slits to help cut through melted snow and slush, which prevent hydroplaning. The traction provided by winter tires is as much as 25 to 50% higher than that of all-season tires.

 

When installing winter tires on your vehicle, always install them in a matching set of four tires. Installing winter tires on only the front or back of your vehicle can lead to reduced steering and handling and increase the likelihood that you will spin out on the road. For optimal safety and performance, always install your winter tires in a set of four. It’s worth it.

 

Another thing to keep in mind with winter tires (as well as all-season tires) is to check your tire air pressure regularly. For every 10 degrees the temperature drops, your tires will lose about 1 PSI of pressure. If you wake up one morning and the temperature has dropped significantly, check the pressure in your tires before hitting the road. Properly inflated tires make for good traction, handling, and fuel mileage.

 

If you have made it this far into the year without purchasing winter tires for your car, give Don Owen Tire in Bloomington, IL a call today! Our ASE-certified technicians would be happy to recommend the right tires for your vehicle and budget. You can even schedule an appointment online!