Winter Tires vs. All-season Tires
In some places, winter tires aren't a necessity, but in Frankfort or West Lafayette, IN, winter tires are incredibly important. Take a moment to compare winter tires vs. all-season tires, explore our winter tire storage tips, and learn about the behavior of tire pressure in winter. Then, explore the service specials at Lincoln Lafayette, IN, and get in touch with our tire center for assistance.
The Differences Between Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires
Explore the fundamental differences between winter tires and all-season tires, and we think you agree that winter tires are a necessity. Compare winter tires vs. all-season tires below:
- Rubber: All-season tires will become brittle, lose traction, and deteriorate in freezing temperatures. Winter tires, however, are designed with special compounds that help them to withstand sub-freezing temps with optimum traction.
- Edges: All-season tires feature smoother edges for lower resistance and better fuel economy numbers. Meanwhile, winter tires feature biting edges that more easily slice through snow and ice.
- Tread: Winter tires feature deeper and more complexly patterned tread grooves to create more friction and grip on slippery ice and snow. All-season tires feature shallower and simpler grooves with less roll resistance, which improves fuel economy.
We recommend installing winter tires to greatly improve safety and handling on the road during Indiana winters and protect your all-season tires from increased wear and tear in cold temps. That said, you'll want to take them off in the spring. They're noisy and reduce fuel economy on dry roads.
Tips for Winter Tire Storage
- The rubber on your winter tires will corrode if you don't clean them before storing them or if stored in a dirty area. Make sure to clean the storage area and wipe the grime off the tires before you let them sit for the rest of the season.
- Check back on the tires from time to time to ensure the tread isn't deteriorating.
- Bear in mind that tire pressure in winter tends to be lower because the air is molecularly denser. When it comes time to put your tires back on, make sure to air them up, as they're likely low.
Do You Have More Questions About Winter Tires?
If you have more questions about comparing winter tires vs. all-season tires or tire pressure in winter, don't hesitate to call Lincoln of Lafayette, IN, at 765-607-6916 for assistance. And be sure to explore our service tips for information on other topics related to everyday car care, like our overview of things to know about tire pressure!