Winter driving in Michigan can be treacherous, with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures creating hazardous road conditions. If you live in Tawas City or the surrounding areas, you may wonder if snow tires are necessary for your vehicle. At Dean Arbour Ford of Tawas Inc., we're here to help you make an informed decision about whether snow tires are right for you.
What Are Snow Tires?
Snow tires, also known as winter tires, are specifically designed to provide superior traction, handling, and braking performance in cold weather and on snow and ice-covered roads. If you frequently drive around Oscoda during the winter months, having a set of dedicated snow tires can give you added confidence behind the wheel.
Snow tires are made with special rubber compounds that stay pliable in cold temperatures, allowing them to grip the road better than all-season tires. They also feature unique tread patterns with deeper grooves, and small slits called sipes that help to channel snow and slush away from the tire.
Do I Need Snow Tires?
Whether you need snow tires depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle you drive, your typical driving habits, and the winter weather conditions in your area. For example, if you have a four-wheel drive truck or SUV and only occasionally venture out in light snow around East Tawas, you may get by with all-season tires.
However, if you have a two-wheel drive car and regularly commute on snowy or icy roads near Hale, MI, investing in snow tires can significantly improve your safety and peace of mind. It's important to remember that even the most advanced all-wheel drive systems are only as good as the tires that are in contact with the road.
When Should I Put on Snow Tires?
Generally, installing your snow tires is best once the temperature consistently drops below 45°F, typically in late fall or early winter in areas like Whittemore, MI. You'll want to keep your snow tires on until the spring, when temperatures regularly climb above this threshold and the risk of snow and ice has passed.
Choosing the Right Snow Tires
When selecting snow tires for your vehicle, choosing a set with the same size and speed rating as your original equipment tires is important. You'll also want to purchase a complete set of four tires to ensure balanced handling and control.
Our knowledgeable service advisors can help you find the perfect set of snow tires for your driving needs. We carry a wide selection of top-quality winter tires from trusted brands, and our certified technicians can mount and balance them for you to ensure optimal performance.
Discover more in Tawas City, MI
If you want to enhance your safety and confidence while driving in snowy and icy conditions, investing in a set of snow tires is a smart choice. Stop by Dean Arbour Ford of Tawas Inc. to learn more about your snow tire options and get expert advice.