Time to Change Tyres?
Spring is now on the horizon and soon we will be able to experience brighter and warmer mornings, longer days and the colour and life that spring can bring after the bleakness of winter. So, is now the time to switch out your winter tyres? This article will tell you all that you need to know to make the right decision.
Summer vs Winter Tyres
First, it is helpful to know about the difference between summer and winter tyres. Summer tyres are softer and more flexible in warmer weather, which makes them ideal for spring, summer and even autumn. Summer tyres can also perform in wet conditions, but they do struggle in colder temperatures. Winter tyres have more rubber content and stay malleable in colder temperatures, which means that they can perform in freezing temperatures. Additionally, winter tyres have additional grooves that can disperse water and stay in contact with the road.
Rule of Seven
There is no exact science, but it is often recommended that you should switch from winter tyres when the temperature is consistently above 7 degrees. Winter tyres work best below this temperature, so it is safe to switch when the weather is around 7 degrees most of the time (this is usually around March time).
Benefits of Changing
There are a number of benefits to switching to summer tyres when it is safe to do so. Summer tyres will improve road-holding performance, make it easy to drive in wet conditions and rotating tyres will also reduce the risk of worn tread depth and damage. Additionally, switching to summer tyres could improve fuel efficiency (something that everyone can benefit from with the cost of fuel so high).
Don’t Change Too Soon
There are benefits to switching, but you must also be vigilant and avoid changing too soon. It could be unsafe to switch too early as a cold snap could make the roads dangerous and unsuitable for summer tyres. Therefore, it is a good idea to keep an eye on the weather and to wait until the weather is consistently above 7 degrees and it is clear that spring has arrived. The weather can be unpredictable in the UK, so it is better to be safe than sorry and wait until spring has arrived.
It is a great feeling to have spring on the horizon as this brings longer days, warmer weather and colour and life. It can also make the roads feel safer and more predictable and gives you the chance to switch from winter to summer tyres. You want to make sure that you do this at the right time, though, as you will want to always make sure that you have tyres that are suited to the conditions, so you should keep a close eye on the forecast in the coming weeks to be sure.
