Choosing Tires For Winter Driving

Choosing the right tires is one of the most importantsame size, type and tread. This is particularly important
decisions we have to make in regards to our personalif your vehicle is front wheel drive where using
transportation. It is of utmost importance during themismatched rear wheels may result in a loss of
winter, when in many areas the presence of ice andtraction when braking on the icy roads of winter.
snow on roadways creates a deadly hazard. It is notWhen choosing tires be aware that equipping your
a difficult process if you have the necessaryvehicle with oversized tires that are larger than those
information.recommended by the manufacturer make result in
The very first thing you should do is check yourdifficulty steering and can rub the fender wells or
vehicle owner's manual to find the manufacturersuspension underneath.
specifications for the types and sizes of tiresAs a rule, snow tires are manufactured with large
recommended by them.empty areas in their tread so that they will have more
Next, mount the appropriate mud and snow tires ontraction on snow than normal tires where regular all
your vehicle to help guard against the slickness ofseason type tires are more concerned with marrying a
winter roads, these tires can be used anywhere asquiet ride with a modicum of traction.
long as they do not have metal studs on them.Another time tested method that can be used when
If you live in an area where ice is common in theconditions warrant is the use of tire chains. Installing tire
winter, be sure to use the metal-stud tires that arechains can increase traction as much as 200%. Again,
available and keep your other tires(if they are in goodmake sure that these chains are of the right size and
condition) for the end of winter season as these metaltype for your particular tire as the wrong chains can
stud tires are only allowed during the winter seasoncause the tires to fail.
and are banned in 10 states.Following the preceding tips will help you to safeguard
Another key to remember is to make sure that all ofyou and your family in the upcoming winter season.
the snow tires you equip your vehicle with are of the