Winter driving can be tough on your tires. Snow, ice, cold temperatures, and salted roads all put extra stress on your tires, affecting traction, handling, and overall safety. Maintaining your tires properly ensures better control, improved braking, and a safer driving experience throughout the colder months. Here’s how to keep your tires in top shape for winter roads.
Check Tire Tread Depth
Tread depth is one of the most important factors in winter traction. Tires with shallow tread are more likely to slip on ice and snow. The general rule is to replace tires when tread depth falls below 4/32 of an inch for winter driving. You can check this with a tread depth gauge or the simple penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down — if you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Cold weather causes air pressure to drop, which can affect tire performance and wear. Underinflated tires reduce traction, increase stopping distances, and cause uneven wear. Check tire pressure regularly throughout the winter and adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, keeping in mind that pressure should be measured when tires are cold.
Rotate Tires Regularly
Tire rotation ensures even wear across all four tires, extending their life and improving performance on slippery roads. Most manufacturers recommend rotation every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, but in winter conditions, more frequent checks can help maintain consistent traction.
Inspect for Damage
Winter roads can be harsh, with potholes, curbs, and ice posing risks to tires. Inspect your tires for cracks, bulges, cuts, or embedded objects. Damaged tires can fail unexpectedly, so catching issues early is critical for safety.
Consider Winter or All-Season Tires
If you live in areas with heavy snow or icy conditions, winter tires offer better traction and control than standard all-season tires. They’re designed with softer rubber compounds and deeper tread patterns that stay flexible in cold temperatures. All-season tires can work in milder winters, but check tread and performance before hitting slick roads.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your tires in good condition is one of the most effective ways to stay safe during winter driving. Regularly checking tread, maintaining pressure, rotating tires, and inspecting for damage all help improve handling and reduce the risk of accidents. Taking these steps now ensures you’ll have the traction, stability, and confidence needed to navigate winter roads safely.