Are Your Tires Winter Ready?

The slippery winter months are upon us. From mid November to mid April the roads can be treacherous. The only part of your car that meets those treacherous roads are your tires. Your tires will be affected when the temperature outside is above or below 19 degrees Fahrenheit. Below 19 degrees tires lose elasticity and thus their traction on the road. Make sure your tires are in the best condition this winter to avoid some slipping and sliding. Here are some tire tips:

  • Make sure the tires are inflated to recommended tire pressure (found on the inside of the drivers door frame)
  • If your tires treads are worn down they should be replaced, low treads make for poor traction in snow
  • Buy snow tires for the winter and put them on all 4 tires. These tires are designed to keep their elasticity when the temps go below 19 degrees.
  • At minimum have all-season tires (M+S rated) on all 4 tires
  • When winter is over do not keep snow tires on during the warm/hot months they will deteriorate

winter tire

Keep yourself and family safe when on the roads this winter, make sure your tires are winter ready! Drive slowly, avoid quickly breaking and accelerating when on the roads the next few months. Even with the best winter tires proper driving is essential. Snow tires aren’t miracle workers they need someone safely using them! www.mancuso-nowak.com

Winter Driving!

Winter is here, the cold has set in and we have had our first snow. Driving in the winter can be tricky, but here are a few tips to improve your driving on the snow and ice:

  • Clean off your car completely! Even though it is not a law to remove snow and ice from vehicles, police can still ticket due to driving an unsafe car. If you cause an accident you could incur more penalties.
  • Make sure your tires are suitable for winter weather, check out these guidelines: winter tires
    Consider changing your windshield wipers: Rain-X Latitude blades received the highest rating for winter blades
  • Do not make hasty driving decisions, no quick turns or braking
  • Do not use cruise control
  • Drive slowly, it is easier to stop on snow and ice when you are not traveling at high speeds
  • Bridges and ramps are the most slippery, use caution
  • In slippery conditions use the “4 Second Rule” for the amount of space you leave between you and vehicle in front of you
  • Make sure all vehicle fluids are at proper levels – antifreeze, wiper fluid, etc.
  • Keep warm blankets and flares in your car in case of a breakdown or accident

Please stay safe on the roads and allow a few extra minutes for travel during wintery conditions. Happy Winter!