How long do winter tyres last?
As long as you only use winter tyres during the winter, you can expect to get the same number of miles out of a set as you would from summer tyres the rest of the year. However, winter tyres will wear out very quickly if you use them in warmer weather.
When should I change to winter tyres?
You should fit your winter tyres as soon as the ambient temperature drops consistently below 7deg Celsius. Similarly, you should remove them again once the temperature rises above that. Given that the UK winter is unpredictable – ranging from anywhere between cold and frigid to dry and mild – it’s wise to keep your winter tyres readily to hand and mounted on wheels, so that you can switch between them and your summer tyres when necessary.
Are winter tyres compulsory abroad?
In many countries throughout Europe, winter tyres are compulsory in the winter. If you are travelling overseas, be sure to check beforehand what the law states.
What pressure should winter tyres be set to?
Winter tyre pressures should be the same as summer tyre pressures. However, it’s important to set those tyres pressures in representative ambient conditions. As the temperature falls, so will your tyre pressures. If you’re setting them inside a warm garage, for instance, they will drop by as much as 10% once they’re outside in the cold.
Can you put winter tyres on the front only?
In the UK, it isn’t illegal to do so, but mixing winter and summer tyres is not safe as the back of the car may start to slide as the back wheels lose grip, therefore it is not recommended.
Do I really need winter tyres on a front-wheel-drive car?
Yes, because although the improvements aren’t as great as they are on rear-wheel-drive cars, they are still very significant indeed, especially in braking and cornering performance.
Where’s the best place to buy winter tyres?
Always check for deals on the internet (with companies such as blackcircles.com or kwik-fit.com) but check with your car manufacturer first to get the recommended sizes.
Do winter tyres make any difference in the rain?
Yes, a huge difference. In fact, they will improve the braking, traction and overall grip of your car at any temperature below 7deg Celsius – even in the dry. In the wet, meanwhile, the difference is like chalk and cheese.