Winter conditions are harsh in many areas. As soon as autumn arrives, we can already see that temperatures drop, especially at night. In addition, the roads are slippery and for that, you need winter tires to optimize your car's grip. They were once called snow tires, and they still play a key role in safety. But when should you change your tires?
Characteristics of winter tires
Winter tires differ from summer tires in design. When temperatures start to drop below 7°C, the rubber hardens. As a result, it affects your car's handling since summer tires lose their efficiency, which is why they need to be replaced.
Winter tires are flexible and have deeper grooves. Their tread has lamellas that grip and adhere to the road in an optimal way during the cold seasons. This allows your vehicle to have more traction.
The best time to change tires
To know when to change your tires, you must consider the outside temperatures. The ideal time to replace them is when they fall below 7 degrees. Previously, the vehicle had to be equipped with snow tires only when there was snow. Now it's not the same. The composition of winter tires and their properties are particularly adapted to winter conditions. As a result, the drop-in temperature indicates that it is time to change tires.
Do we have to have winter tires during the cold seasons?
The current legislation does not require drivers to equip themselves with winter tyres. It is still possible to drive with the same tires regardless of the season. Nevertheless, common sense and intelligent thinking are required. It is better to change tires at least once a year for safety reasons.
There are various categories of winter tires and even entry-level tires are effective. They are less resistant than good quality tires, but they are still more practical than summer tires in winter.
Note that in some countries, winter tyres are mandatory from 1 November. It is therefore important to find out in advance when to change your tyres if you drive across the French border. So, you should take responsibility in the event of an incident or accident if you do not have the right equipment.