Your Manchester Mechanic Explains Winter vs. All-Season Tires

manchester mechanic

Whether you love winter or want to cling to fall for as long as possible, there’s no denying that winter weather will be here soon. Although we can resist it as much as we want, ice and snow are an unavoidable part of New England winter. To ensure you’re prepared for winter, now is the time to look into winter tires. Some drivers choose to stick with all-season tires for the winter, but that’s not always the best choice. Luckily, your Manchester mechanic at Redmans Automotive is here to help.

 

What is the difference between all-season and winter tires? Read on as your Manchester mechanic explains the key differences.

 

Better Traction

If you look at a winter tire and an all-season tire side-by-side, the primary difference you’ll notice is the tread. Winter tires have more and deeper grooves in the tread, which give the tires better traction on a snowy and slippery road. Many all-season tires also have significant tread, but not to the same degree as winter tires. All-season tires need to be on the road year-round, so having tread like a winter tire would cause them to wear out too quickly. Because winter tires are only in use for a few months out of the year, they can sacrifice longevity for traction.

 

Stop on Time

Better traction improves stopping time as well as maneuverability. Even something as simple as coming to a stop at a light can be more difficult when there is ice and snow on the road. The tread on winter tires shortens your stop time so that it’s closer to what you expect under normal conditions. What’s more, you’ll really appreciate your winter tires if you have to slam on the brakes on a slippery road.

 

Built for the Cold

Winter tires are designed not only for slippery conditions but also for colder temperatures. They are manufactured with a different type of rubber that is designed to perform in the cold. Extreme cold can make certain materials—including rubber—brittle and prone to cracking. That’s not something you want happening to your tires. The chemical composition of winter tires helps them stay elastic in cold weather so they continue to perform and keep you safe on the road.

 

Manchester Mechanic | Redman’s Automotive

Get ready for winter with your Manchester mechanic at Redman’s Automotive. We’ll swap out your tires for a winter set and give your car the once-over to ensure you can handle the cold.

 

Contact us at 603-626-1400 to schedule a service appointment today.