Winter Tires: Why You Need Them and How to Choose Them

Winter driving presents unique challenges that require specialized tires to ensure safety and performance. At Shahba Auto Tire Shop, we understand the importance of equipping your vehicle with the right tires for the season. Here’s why you need winter tires and how to choose the best ones for your vehicle.

Why You Need Winter Tires

Enhanced Traction on Snow and Ice
- Winter tires are designed with deeper tread patterns and unique rubber compounds that remain flexible in low temperatures. This design provides superior traction on snow and ice, significantly reducing the risk of skidding and improving braking performance.
Improved Handling in Cold Conditions
- The rubber compounds in winter tires stay soft and pliable in freezing temperatures, ensuring better grip and handling. This contrasts with all-season tires, which can harden in the cold, reducing their effectiveness.
Shorter Stopping Distances
- Winter tires offer shorter stopping distances on snowy and icy roads compared to all-season tires. This can make a critical difference in avoiding accidents during winter driving conditions.
Enhanced Safety
- Winter tires are specifically engineered to perform in harsh winter conditions, offering better control and stability. They contribute to overall vehicle safety by improving your ability to navigate through snow, slush, and ice.

How to Choose Winter Tires

Understand Tire Size and Specifications
- Refer to your vehicle’s owner manual or the placard on the driver’s door frame for the recommended tire size and specifications. Ensure that the winter tires you choose match these requirements.
Look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake Symbol
- Tires with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol on the sidewall have been tested and certified to meet specific snow traction performance requirements. This symbol indicates that the tire is suitable for severe snow conditions.
Consider Your Driving Conditions
- Assess the typical winter conditions in your area. If you frequently drive on icy or snow-covered roads, opt for tires with aggressive tread patterns designed for maximum traction.
Choose Between Studded and Studless Tires
- Studded Tires: Provide excellent grip on ice due to metal studs embedded in the tread. However, they can be noisy and may be restricted or banned in some areas due to road damage concerns.
- Studless Tires: Offer a quieter ride and use advanced rubber compounds and tread designs to provide grip on ice and snow without the need for metal studs.
Check Tread Depth and Design
- Look for tires with deep, wide, and aggressive tread patterns to channel snow, slush, and water away from the tire. This helps maintain traction and reduces the risk of hydroplaning.
Consider a Full Set of Winter Tires
- For optimal safety and performance, it’s recommended to install a full set of winter tires rather than just two. This ensures consistent traction and handling across all four wheels.

Maintenance Tips for Winter Tires

Regularly Check Tire Pressure: Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so check and adjust the pressure regularly to maintain optimal performance.
Inspect for Wear and Damage: Regularly inspect your winter tires for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if the tread depth is below the recommended level or if there are visible cracks or punctures.
Proper Storage: When not in use, store your winter tires in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Clean them thoroughly before storage to remove any salt and road grime.

At Shahba Auto Tire Shop, we offer a wide selection of high-quality winter tires to keep you safe on the road during the colder months. Our expert team can help you choose the best winter tires for your vehicle and driving conditions. Visit us at our Richmond or Surrey locations for professional advice and tire services.

Visit Us: