Tips for Maintaining Your Winter Tires

Here are some tips for getting the most out of your winter tires

Winter tires don’t come cheap, which is why it’s crucial that you take care of them over the next several months. Depending on how long the cold weather lasts, you could be using your winter tires for close to half the year, making it worthwhile to maintain them on a consistent basis.
Here are some quick and easy tips to ensure your winter tires last:
REGULAR CHECK UPS
It should really go without saying, but the best way to maintain your winter tires is to inspect them frequently. Cold weather will typically reduce the air pressure in your tires, so it’s important that you check them on a consistent basis to ensure they’re properly inflated.
Driving with under-inflated tires will not only hurt your fuel economy, but it will also increase tread wear and negatively affect your handling – which kind of defeats the purpose of having winter tires in the first place.
COMPLETE SETS
This may be surprising to some, but there are some drivers who believe they only need two winter tires if their vehicle has front-wheel drive. While this may sound like an easy way to save a few extra bucks, it’s dangerous.
If you have mismatched tires, each tire will handle the road differently which can be unsafe. While it may cost more up front, it’s always in your best interest to purchase a full set.
STORAGE
Once the roads begin to thaw, it’s important to keep your winter tires in a safe place once they’ve been removed.  Make sure to store your tires in a dry environment away from any direct sunlight. If they’re in the sun for too long, the tires could begin to overheat, causing the rubber to crack.
A garage is typically the best place to store them away from the harmful outdoor elements. Make sure to lay them flat on the ground. If you want, you can lay them on top of one another. Just make sure that they don’t sit on their tread, as this can leave flat spots.
Finally, consider investing in a set of tire covers. This will help to ensure your tires stay fresh for next winter.
REPLACEMENT
While you can do everything in your power to extend the life of your tires, they still won’t last forever. To ensure you’re not driving with worn tires, you should have them inspected by a professional before putting them on each winter.
Buying a new set may be a little pricey, but it’s crucial that you do everything in your power to stay safe on the road – especially in the winter.