Can my winter tires last another season?
While there’s no set “life expectancy” for snow tires, many tire manufacturers estimate that you should get four seasons of wear from a set of winter tires.
Is 7 32 tread good?
So, 7/32 is pretty good, but is not comparable to a new tire. As you have probably surmised, tread wear varies considerably from one model of tire to another, and the tires that come on most new cars are not noted for very good tread wear.
How long are winter tires supposed to last?
While it depends on the severity of the specific winter climate and location, winter tires are traditionally fitted around mid-November and swapped out by about mid-March. In other words, winter tires are commonly used for between four to five months of the year.
Can I use winter tires all year long?
Winter tires are designed for use in one season: winter. Though using 3-seasons in the winter could be more harmful than if you were to use winter tires year round, if you drive your winters in warm months, you’ll sacrifice performance, fuel economy, and your tires’ lifespan. The good news is, there is a dedicated winter tire that doubles as a summer tire.
How many miles will winter tires last?
The average winter tire will last for at least 30,000 miles depending on the type of conditions you face. For a high-quality winter tire, you can get up to 40,000 miles and sometimes even more depending on your vehicle type. Winter tires are affordable and last for multiple winter seasons.
How many years will snow tires last?
3-4 seasonsMany people are under the impression that snow tires don't last as long as regular tires. While they require more care, you can get some life out of snow tires. Be sure to put on your snow tires as soon as the first snowfalls and take them off when spring hits. The average winter tires will last 3-4 seasons.
When should I replace my winter tires?
According to tire manufacturers, and even the law in most provinces, your tires should be replaced when the tread depth reaches 4/32” in the winter. If your tread depth wears to those levels, your tires are considered bald and a safety hazard. Use this chart as an example: Brand new – 12/32”
How long will winter tires last in summer?
Winter tires will last on average about 30,000 miles depending on the conditions and vehicle type. When winter tires are exposed to summer weather, they will wear about 60% faster than usual. This means you would reduce the total tread life of your winter tires to about 12,000 miles.
Do winter tires degrade over time?
Winter tires are made with rubber that retains its elasticity at lower temperatures, but that does not mean they will wear out more quickly than other tires. Manufacturers say winter tires should last six seasons. Transport Canada says they could be good for up to 10 seasons.
How fast do winter tires wear out?
Faster wear and uneven wear - On warm and hot road surfaces, a winter tire's rubber compound wears quickly and more unevenly. Winter tires are meant to last two-to-three seasons, but when they're mounted on a vehicle for 12 months consecutively, they need to be replaced sooner.
How do I know if my winter tires are still good?
Insert a 25 cent piece into the tire's grooves with the nose of the caribou facing downward. If the caribou's nose isn't visible, it means the depth is superior to 6/32 of an inch. If you can see the nose, it means it's time to change your tires.
Are 10 year old tires safe?
Any tire over ten years old is too weak to ensure safe driving. At this age, it's imperative that you replace your tires. For your safety, we will not service any tires aged 10 years or older.
Do winter tires use more gas?
Winter tires use less energy than all-season tires because they're made of hydrophilic rubber. It's designed to stay softer in frigid temperatures, using less fuel as they glide over snow-laden roads. These tires also have unique grooves that give them a better grip on wet roads.
What temperature is too hot for winter tires?
Show activity on this post. I was told to not drive on winter tires above 45 degrees fahrenheit (7 Celsius) from three tire dealerships in my local area. If you drive above this temperature, apparently it chews up the tires and wears the tread down faster.
Is it bad to drive winter tires in summer?
Using winter tires in summer can cause the rubber and tread to wear down quickly. The heat can increase the risk of a blowout. The risk of hydroplaning also increases because winter tires don't grip as effectively compared to summer or all-season tires in warm, wet weather.
How can you tell if snow tires are still good?
Check the tread depth: Stick a quarter into the tire grooves at several spots with George Washington's head upside down. If you can see the top of Washington's hair, you have 4/32 of an inch of tread or less. That means it's about time to replace your tires.
How long do Blizzak snow tires last?
Depending on your driving conditions, you can expect to replace them every three or four years. Optimal design and durability lend to the longer lifespan of the Blizzak tire.
Should you buy used winter tires?
While a secondhand winter tire can last up to 4-5 seasons, we recommend 2 to 3 years old ones. However, remember that even with adequate tread, these tires will not provide as good performance and safety as you get with new rubber. The tire rubber starts weakening and loses its elasticity with time.
What is the best tread depth for a tire?
If your tires have a tread depth of 5/32 or lower , it’s time for a new set. There will not be enough tread remaining to get you through the winter. Winter tire tread patterns and siping are designed to bite into and evacuate snow and slush so that extra tread depth will provide your best traction on the road.
Why do tires wear faster in winter?
Leaving winter tires on when temperatures get warmer will increase wear since the compounds that allow a winter tire to stay flexible in freezing temps also wear faster on warm roads. High heat, freezing temperatures and exposure to light are the biggest contributors to any tire’s aging process.
How do you know if a tire needs to be replaced?
Usually, they’re molded into the bottom of a tire’s tread grooves and indicate that a tire needs to be replaced when the indicator is flush with the adjacent ribs. You should also always check your tires for visible damage that may indicate that it’s time for a new set.
How deep should winter tires be?
If your tires have a tread depth of 5/32 or lower , it’s time for a new set. See Prices.
Do low mileage tires last longer?
Low mileage drivers will get much longer use out of their winter tires than drivers who have both long winters and drive long distances. The lifespan of your tire will also be directly related to the original quality of the tire, and the level of care they’re given.
Can you store tires indoors?
We recommend storing your tires indoors, where they are protected from temperature fluctuations. Be sure to clean the tires thoroughly and ensure they are dry. An airtight tire storage bag, is best and believe it or not, heavy duty black trash bags can be a good tire storage solution.
What Makes Winter Tires Distinct From Regular Tires?
To be clear, winter tires are not only designed for driving over snow, they are purposefully built to withstand cold temperatures without hardening, and can grip over icy surfaces.
When Should I Replace My Winter Tires with a New Set?
Before pulling out your winter tires and swapping them over regular tires, first, make sure that they are free from any visible damage such as deep cracks on the sidewall and treads. Additionally, check if the tread depth is still enough to get you through the season.
Conclusion
Winter tires don’t have a set life expectancy, however, manufacturers and tire experts claim your winter tires could last up to 5 seasons. Additionally, you can maximize the most wear and value out of them by following regular tire care and maintenance and proper handling and storage when not in use.
How long do tires usually last?
Tires are a crucial factor in the overall safety of a vehicle. It is also the only part that makes the most contact with the ground. So, tire wear is inevitable. First, worn or damaged tires will affect the vehicle's responsiveness. For example, the control, handling, steering feel, and braking of the car will not be satisfactory.
When should winter tires be changed?
Checking the expiration date of a winter tire will help you know the remaining life of the tire. Because in some places, winter tires are only used for a few months of the year, after that, you need to change to all-season tires or summer tires. Therefore, you should only use winter tires for about 4 to 6 seasons.
Conclusion
While driving, if you feel the steering wheel is unsteady, or notice strange sounds or vibrations, stop the vehicle in a safe place as quickly as possible and check both the vehicle and the tires. Check for any deformation or abnormality in the tire.
What Causes a Winter Tire To Wear Down?
Warm temperatures can cause your winter tires to lose their handling characteristics because they are softer and more flexible than summer tires during the season.
How Many Winter Seasons Will Your Tire Last?
We all like winter tires because they provide more traction than summer tires and also make sure that we can drive on snow or ice without having to worry about breaking down completely. However, some drivers opt to avoid winter tires.
4 Ways To Make Your Winter Tires Last Longer
The convenient thing about purchasing winter tires is you typically get plenty of usage out of them before it is time to find a new set. This makes it a hassle-free investment that you know will be something you can rely on each winter.
About THE AUTHOR
I've spent many years selling cars, working with auto detailers, mechanics, dealership service teams, quoting and researching car insurance, modding my own cars, and much more.
How Long Do Winter Tires Last On Average?
Most tire manufacturers do not provide treadwear warranties or estimated lifespans for winter tires because of the varying conditions in which they are used.
When Should Snow Tires Be Replaced?
Winter tires, also commonly known as snow tires, should be replaced when the tread depth reaches 4/32 inches in winter.
How Can You Tell If Your Winter Tires Are Worn Out?
To tell if your winter tires are worn out, you should check the tread depth using the quarter test.
Can You Use Winter Tires In The Summer?
Winter tires can be used in the summer, but doing so can drastically reduce their lifespan.
Are 10 Year Old Snow Tires Safe?
Over time, the rubber in winter tires undergoes degradation, even if they aren’t being used very frequently.
How Can You Make Your Winter Tires Last Longer?
If you take good care of your winter tires, you will have no problems getting good traction out of them for more than 5 to 6 years.
Conclusion
Most tire manufacturers suggest that winter tires can last for about five to six seasons on average, after which they should be replaced.
HOW LONG A TIRE LASTS
There is no exact answer to how long a particular tire will last, but there are things a driver can do to get the most out of their tire investment and avoid driving on unsafe tires.
FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE HOW LONG A TIRE LASTS
Multiple factors play a role in how long a tire may remain in service. Miles driven, road conditions, driving style, maintenance and age all affect how long a tire lasts.
KNOWING WHEN TO REPLACE TIRES
If the below signs are evident with your tires, it may be time to have them replaced.
HOW LONG A TIRE LASTS: EXTENDING TREAD LIFE
Tires are both one of the largest maintenance expenses a vehicle owner is likely to face, and one of the most critical in terms of driving safety and performance. For both reasons it’s important to care for them properly. Bottom line: good maintenance and driving habits help keep drivers safe, and it saves them money by extending tire life.
FIRST, WHAT IS A WINTER TIRE?
All winter tires, whether studless or studded, are made to maintain better traction in extreme cold, and on icy, snowy, or slushy roads. The rubber is able to remain softer, which makes it more flexible, allowing the tire to conform to the road better in extremely cold conditions.
WHY YOU SHOULDN'T USE WINTER TIRES YEAR-ROUND
Winter tires are specially designed for cold temperatures and winter precipitation. Once it gets warm, you won't need deep tread depths to handle snow or biting edges for traction on ice. Here are some specific reasons why using winter tires year round is not recommended.
SIMPLIFY TIRE RE-MOUNTING
Driving on snow tires year-round could compromise optimal tread wear and ultimately be more expensive than just changing tires out for the season.
How to make tires age faster?
The pressure from the load will stretch and deform the rubber, making your tires age quicker. Put tires in airtight plastic bags. Tire totes. After they are clean and dry, put each tire in an airtight plastic bag – this will keep the oils from evaporating.
Why do tires crack?
Cracks caused by ozone and weather impact. Image source: waterloohonda.com. Tire manufacturers try to fight ozone damage by putting special compounds in the products they produce. These waxes and oils can help if the tire is being used, meaning that the compounds are brought closer to the surface.
Why do tires have flat spots?
Liquids are also potential sources of ozone, which is destructible for rubber. Flat spot on a tire caused by storing being mounted. Image source: ford-trucks.com.
What is the ozone in rubber?
The type of ozone that is destructive to rubber is usually a result of manmade pollution . The impact of the gas on tires was first noticed in the 1950s, with rubber deteriorating faster in large cities than in small towns.
What happens when tires are exposed to sunlight?
When tires are exposed to sunlight, the rubber immediately starts absorbing UV radiation. The process is the same with both natural and synthetic polymers, which make up rubber compounds. The process of deterioration, due to the impact of UV, is called photo degradation.
What is the main cause of rubber deterioration?
Oxygen . Oxygen is the main element responsible for rubber deterioration, as it breaks rubber down from both outside and inside. Most tires are inflated with compressed air, which is 21% oxygen. So, unlike UV and ozone damage, the process of oxidation is twice as fast.
How does heat affect rubber?
Heat, combined with oxygen, accelerates rubber aging with the process of thermo-oxidative degradation. According to NHTSA research data, tires last less time in hotter climates, and consequentially, they fail quicker, no matter whether they are ridden or stored.
