If you live in an area that sees either freezing winters or smothering summers, tire experts say you should consider using separate winter and summer tires. This is especially true if you drive a performance model like a Jetta GLI or if you like to get off-road in your Atlas Cross Sport. Read on to learn more about when we suggest our Farmington Hills drivers to swap their winter tires for their summer ones.
What Are Summer and Winter Tires?
The difference between summer and winter tires lies in their rubber compound. The compound refers to the chemical mix that gives rubber its softness or hardness characteristics.
The compound for summer tires is designed to enhance grip. This improves handling on warmer road surfaces and also during summer rains. Summer tires also have fewer grooves, so they stay in better contact with a wet road surface.
Winter tire compounds contain more natural rubber, which helps them stay pliable as winter temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. All-season tire compounds offer a hybrid of the more specialized seasonal components.
Why Use Summer and Winter Tires?
For many Warren drivers traveling to different climates, all-season tires may be sufficient. However, if you drive in either weather or performance extremes, please be careful to have your tires regularly inspected if you choose all-seasons.
Summer or winter tires are designed for the rigors of the season and the realities of the way we drive our vehicles. If you like to test your car's performance limits or drive off-road around Troy, or if you live in an area that experiences extreme heat or extreme cold, summer or winter tires may be your best choice.
When to Switch Tires?
The general rule is to use summer tires between Easter and October. Some experts suggest using 45 degrees Fahrenheit as your boundary between summer and winter tires.
Switch to Summer Tires at Fox Volkswagen
Stop by or contact Fox Volkswagen when it is time to switch your winter or summer tires. We will be sure to get your vehicle back and running in no time. Our tire service experts will be happy to help you select the correct tire for Rochester Hills's seasons and for your driving conditions. Stop by our service center for any of your Xpress Service needs. Otherwise, feel free to schedule a service appointment with us today through our maintenance menu. No matter what brings you into our dealership today, we look forward to helping you.