8 Things to Know About Winter Tires

1. For Winter Only

Winter tires are only for the winter, since they're specially designed to perform in ice, snow, slush, and low temperatures, which they do better than all-season tires. 

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2. Monitor the Tread

Winter tires feature a special, single-directional tread pattern meant to push away snow and ice. They also have a deeper tread depth than all-season tires, and are made using special compounds that are meant to withstand low temperatures. Once the tread looks shallow, they become useless.

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3. Check Tire Pressure Regularly

As temperatures drop, the pressure in the tires also decrease. In order for winter tires to be effective, they need the right amount of pressure. Properly filled winter tires also extends their tread life and reduces fuel consumption.

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4. Switch All Four Tires

A common misconception with winter tires is that you need only switch out two to be safe, but in order for the tires to truly be effective, and you and your passengers safe, all four all-season tires must be replaced with winter tires. This ensures the vehicle has proper handling and control at all times.

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5. Price Doesn’t Always Mean Top Quality

When researching winter tires, don’t buy based on price only. Consumer reports regularly put out reports on top ranking tires, and the most expensive option is rarely, if ever, the best choice to buy.

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6. They Can Save You on Insurance

Many insurance companies offer savings options if you take the initiative to add this safety feature to your vehicle. Check with your policy holder to see if you qualify.

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7. Replace Your Winter Tires Regularly

When your tires’ tread has worn to 6/32nds of an inch, it’s time to swap them out. That’s because at this point, the tires’ ability to keep their traction on icy and snowy roads is significantly reduced.

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8. Know Your Temperatures

Winter tires best perform at temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius, as opposed to three-season tires, which perform best at temperatures above the 7 degrees. All-season tires, meanwhile, perform well in both regards; the winter tire option is the only specially designed to physically handle snow and ice well enough.

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For more information on tires, including winter tire reviews, or any other Lexus maintenance and repairs, head on over to our How-To section by clicking here.