The changing of the seasons often means it’s time to change your tires. When is the most optimal time to change? Your tires are the critical safety features for your vehicle, and you want to ensure you have the right tires for the conditions you’re facing. We put together this tire guide to help you care for your tires for optimal performance.

When to change from winter to summer tires and why

You want to change from winter to summer tires when temperatures consistently stay above 7°C (45°F). Winter tires start to harden and lose their grip at this temperature because they’re specifically designed with a soft rubber compound and tread patterns that increase snow and ice traction. 

In contrast, summer tires have a more complex rubber compound and more open tread patterns that perform well on dry and wet roads. Using the right tires for the season can improve your vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall performance.

Fixing any end-of-season wheel rims and tires

Inspect your wheel rims and tires at the end of each season and make necessary repairs or maintenance while switching to the seasonal set of tires. Here are some simple steps you can take to fix for general wheel repair and any end-of-season wheel rims and tires:

Clean and inspect the rims

Clean your rims and check them for any cracks, corrosion, or other damage. If any damage is found, it may need to be repaired or replaced before installing a new set of tires.

Check the tire pressure

Check each tire’s pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommended level. Low tire pressure can cause uneven wear and reduce fuel efficiency.

Inspect the tires

Take the opportunity to really inspect your tires. Check your tires for any signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, or uneven wear, and make any necessary changes.

Rotate the tires

Consider rotating the tires to ensure even wear. If you’re maintaining your tires and note that they’re not wearing evenly, check for a problem with your vehicle’s alignment or suspension.

Store the tires properly

We often don’t think about what we’re doing with the set of tires that’s not in use. Remember to store your tires in a cool, dry place to protect them from damage.

Take your vehicle to a professional

Let’s face it, most of us don’t enjoy maintaining our vehicles. Even if we do enjoy tinkering, checking in with a wheel repair shop will give you some peace of mind. Take your vehicle to a professional tire repair shop for a full inspection and any necessary repairs or maintenance. The peace of mind is well worth the cost.

The importance of changing your tires to keep them for a long time

Switching between different sets of tires for different seasons and conditions will keep them in good condition and prolong their lifespan. Using the right tires for the season and driving conditions ensures optimal performance and safety. 

Using winter tires provides better traction and handling on snow and ice. In contrast, summer tires offer better grip and handling on dry and wet roads. Using the wrong tires for the conditions can lead to uneven wear, reducing the tire’s lifespan and affecting its performance.

Tires are sensitive to temperature changes and can harden or soften in different weather conditions. Using the right tires for the season helps maintain their optimal performance and lifespan. By changing your tires seasonally and performing regular maintenance, you can keep them in good condition and ensure they last as long as possible.

Let Simplicity Car Care help you transition the seasons safely

Bringing your car to a tire shop will ensure the critical job of changing, inspecting, and maintaining your tires is done right. Simplicity Car Care is a collision centre and tire repair shop with tire experts who have the knowledge and the know-how to ensure that your tires are changed when necessary, properly maintained, and your air pressure is at the level recommended by the manufacturer. Contact Simplicity Car Care today to book an appointment.