When the weather is cold, making sure your used car can handle the challenges of winter driving is important, and one of the most important aspects of prepping your car for cold-weather driving is tire maintenance. Your tires are your vehicle’s only point of contact with the road, and ensuring they’re in optimal condition is especially important during winter.
As the premier dealer of used cars in Evansville, we’re well-versed in tire care for your used car. To help you stay safe on the roads, we’ve prepared this short guide to caring for your used car’s tires in the colder months.
Understanding Winter Tires
Winter tires are specifically made for cold temperatures and snowy, icy roads. They’re made from a soft rubber compound that stays flexible in the cold, giving you better traction than all-season tires. If it’s in your budget, it’s best to switch your tires out to winter tires before the weather gets too cold—once the temperature consistently falls below 45°F, the rubber on standard tires will start to harden and lose traction.
Maintaining Your Tire Pressure
When the weather is chilly, tire pressure decreases. Ensure you check it every month and maintain it according to your manufacturer’s recommendations. This ensures that your tires maintain contact with the road, which improves traction, handling, and fuel efficiency.
Have Your Tires Balanced and Rotated
Regularly rotating your tires can prevent uneven wear, which extends the life of your tires and helps to maintain good traction. Balancing your tires is also important for optimizing performance, ensuring that your tires don’t vibrate.
Don’t Let Your Car Sit Too Long
Leaving your car sitting in one place for too long in the cold can cause flat spots on your tires. Try to take your car on a short drive every few days to keep your tires in good condition.
Schedule an Inspection Before The Weather Turns
An annual pre-winter inspection is a good way to ensure your used car is in optimal condition for the winter. Visit your mechanic to have your tires, your engine, and other elements of your car inspected to ensure you’re safe on the road this winter.
If you’re searching for a trusted used car dealership in Evansville, Edge Autosports is your go-to dealer. We’re known for honest service and quality used cars, and best of all, we’ve got one of the largest selections of used cars in Evansville. Visit us today or contact us to learn more about our inventory and financing options.
