Differences Between Summer and Winter Tyres

Usually, drivers face the same dilemma every year: when to switch from summer tyres to winter ones. Knowing the correct time to have your tyres changed can positively impact your driving safety. In many north European countries, it’s a legal requirement to fit winter tyres during colder months. However, in the UK, there’s no such legal compulsion, but it is simply a great choice.

This can cause a lot of confusion in motorists who aren’t technically aware of the importance of summer and winter tyres and more so the right time to make a switch between them. If you are planning to change your summer tyres before the temperature starts to drop down and want to buy new sets of winter tyres, do visit our facility, we are stocked with a wide range of superior quality Tyres Aston at affordable prices!

Why Change the tyres?

Summer tyres do not provide as much grip and traction in colder temperatures, which adversely affects the braking distance. The rubber composition in the tyres tends to change as per the changing season. On the other hand, winter tyres are built with different rubber compounds and contain a deeper tread pattern, which provides increased gripping levels in tough road conditions. It’s recommended to change the tyres according to their season because, in unfavorable weather and road conditions, their efficiency and optimacy decreases. 

When to Switch from Summer to Winter car Tyres?

As per the common belief, it’s ideal to switch to winter tyres after the first snowfall. But, this is not true. Winters come due before the first snowfall, so it’s better to check the temperature. If it is consistently lower than 7 degrees celsius for 1-2 weeks, that’s the time for you to switch from summer tyres to winter ones. 

Consequences of Changing Tyres Too Early, or Too Late

If you switch from your summer tyres to winter too early – and then experience a late heat blast – your tyre will not be in the optimal condition to ensure your safety. It’s because the compounds that winter tyres are made of are not designed to perform accurately in hot temperatures leading to reduced overall performance. 

Similarly, if you change your tyres too late – there will be a different issue to contend with. Due to their hard rubber compound, summer tyres are noticeably less capable than winter tyres in cold temperatures. 

When should the Worn-out Tyres be replaced?

Every time you switch tyres, ensure to check the health of the tyres which you are removing. If you are changing from summer to winter car tyres, check if the tyres can be used again in the spring. If you detect any problem, there will be ample time for you to make a new purchase at a much lower price; summer tyres cost less in autumn and winter tyres are more affordable in spring. 

Indications of Worn-out Tyres

The first indication is the tread depth. 1.6mm is the minimum tread depth that can be maintained in winter tyre sets. To be on the safer side, it’s important to consider buying new winter tyres if their remaining tread depth is 4mm, and new summer tyres when 3mm is their remaining tread depth. 

It is also very essential to avoid using tyres which age more than 10 years. The manufacturing details on each tyre are mentioned on the sidewall.

In general, it is recommended to switch to winter tyres as the temperature gets below 7 degrees celsius; most likely to happen in October. You can fit the summer tyres back in the summer season.

Reach to Us

If you are interested in knowing more about the importance of changing from summer tyres to winter tyres, or are willing to educate yourself about the various types of tyres and their purposes, call on our helpline number and our friendly experts will clear all your doubts and give you detailed information of whatever you are willing to ask. At tyres Telford, we offer you impartial advice, the highest quality of Tyres, and expert car tyres-related solutions. Contact us today!

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