The unforgiving weather during the winter season can be hard
on any vehicle and even harder on your wallet if you don't make the necessary
upgrades. And when it comes to choosing the best winter tires, many people
don't know where to start. The first thing that you should know is that there
is a difference between a good tire and a good winter tire. Good tires will
perform well throughout the year, in general, but tires designed specifically
for winter will have the best and most reliable performance in tricky
conditions such as ice, sleet, and snow. Here are some tips to help you choose
the best winter tires:
Always Buy New
While some may argue that used tires are just as good as new
ones, it depends heavily on the previous driver and how much wear and tear the
tire has endured. To avoid wasting money and eliminate the guessing game, it's
best to buy new. Another reason that new tires are more sensible is because
they often come with a warranty that will cover you if something unexpected
happens. Used tires are usually sold "as-is," which means that if
they go flat within a week it is not the seller's responsibility to replace
them.
Check Out the Tread
The tread is the noticeable groove pattern on the outside of
a tire that provides more grip. This ultimately results in better traction,
which makes your vehicle safer to navigate on the road. Different tires have
different treads and during the winter, you'll want to look for tread that is
designed to push moisture and liquids away from your tire. That's why getting
winter tires specifically is so important.
Keep your Fuel
Economy in Mind
Did you know that your tires can determine your fuel
economy? The quality and condition of your tires can affect your rolling
resistance (how much effort/fuel it takes to make the wheels turn), so it's
important to consider this during the buying process. Low rolling resistance
means that your car doesn't have to work as hard, saving you gas and mileage.
Considering this, new tires are always the best way to go, as their better
traction will keep you moving faster than slippery tires with worn treads will.
Do Your Research
The more educated that you are about the kinds of tires out
there, the easier it will be to make a good choice. Assess your needs and then
do some general research to find out what the best options are. Most
importantly, read some reviews of the products by customers who have used them.
They will offer valuable first-hand accounts of how the tires perform and
whether they are worth the money you are paying for them.
Labels: Nokian Winter Tires