As the chill winds sweep across the UK, it's time to give extra attention to an often-overlooked aspect of vehicle safety – winter tyres and seasonal tyre maintenance. Each type of tyre has a different set of criteria for maintaining its peak performance. In this guide, we'll look into the aspect of choosing the right winter tyres for your car, and the essential maintenance practices to keep your tyres in top-notch condition throughout the year.
Why Should You Invest in a Good Winter Tyre?
Winter tyres aren't just for driving through snow. Colder months pose an increased risk of accidents as it's hard to maintain control on the road. The unique tread patterns and rubber compounds of winter tyres are designed to provide optimal traction in cold temperatures, ensuring better grip on icy, wet, and slushy roads compared to summer tyres.
How to Choose the Right Winter Tyres For Your Car?
- Opt for the Manufacturer Recommended Tyre Size
It's crucial to choose the right size tyres at all times and the same applies to winter tyres. Ensure you choose winter tyres that match the size recommended for your vehicle. Check your vehicle's manual or the sidewall of your current tyres for this information.
- Look for Winter Specific Tread Patterns
Buy tyres with deep and aggressive tread patterns. These are designed to bite into snow and ice, providing the necessary traction for safe winter driving.
- Ensure Your Tyre has the 3PMSF Symbol:
Check for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. This symbol indicates that the tyre meets the requirements for safety and mobility and is usually accompanied by the regular M+S symbol the norm in Europe and the UK.
How to Store Winter Tyres for Maximum Usage:
- Always Clean and Dry Your Tyres Before Storing:
Before storing your tyres, ensure they are clean and dry. Remove any dirt or debris, and let them air dry completely to prevent mould or mildew growth which might decrease the tyre efficiency.
- Store the Tyres in a Cool, Dry Place:
Ideally, store your winter tyres in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight and heat can accelerate the ageing process of tyres.
- Tyre Bags are a Good Investment:
Tyre bags protect your tyres from dust and moisture during storage. Thereby helping to increase the tyre life. These bags also make it easier to transport the tyres to and from the storage area.
Regular Tyre Maintenance Tips for Winters:
- Check Tyre Pressure:
Cold weather can cause tyre pressure to drop, affecting fuel efficiency and overall performance. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tyre pressure.
- Rotate Your Tyres:
Rotating your tyres helps distribute wear evenly, extending their lifespan. Follow the recommended rotation pattern outlined in your vehicle's manual.
- Align and Balance Your Tyres:
Ensure your tyres are correctly aligned and balanced. Misaligned or unbalanced tyres can lead to uneven wear and reduced handling.
FAQ:
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Are M+S Winter Tyres?
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What is the Winter Tyres UK Law?
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Can You Use Summer Tyres in Winter?
Conclusion:
Investing time and attention in winter tyres and seasonal tyre maintenance is a proactive step towards ensuring your safety on the road, especially during challenging weather conditions. By choosing the right winter tyres and following these maintenance tips, you'll be better prepared to handle whatever the UK weather throws your way.
P.S. Looking for some exciting discounts on your tyre purchases? Check out our offers page or sign up for our mailing list and get an extra 10% off your first order.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with your fellow drivers to promote awareness about winter tyre maintenance.