The Benefits of Switching to Summer Tires Early
As the seasons change and temperatures start to rise, it’s time to consider how your car handles the road. One of the easiest ways to improve your vehicle’s performance, fuel economy, and safety during the warmer months is by switching to summer tires. Making the switch before the heat of summer hits full force can help extend the life of your tires and even boost your car’s overall efficiency. It’s a great addition to your summer car care checklist to ensure safe adventures all season.
At Telle Tire & Auto Centers, we understand the importance of equipping your vehicle with the right tires at the right time. With unpredictable Midwest weather patterns leading up to the summer months, timing is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at why summer tires make such a significant difference and when you should consider making the switch.
Why Switch to Summer Tires?
Summer tires are designed to perform at their best once temperatures rise consistently above 45°F. Their unique rubber compounds and tread patterns offer enhanced handling, traction, and braking in warm, dry, and even wet conditions.
Switching too early can be risky, though. Spring temperatures in the Midwest can swing from snow to sunshine in a matter of days, so it’s important to wait until the risk of freezing temperatures and snowfall has passed before installing your summer tires. Typically, late March to early April is when drivers start making the transition, but always check the forecast and consult with a tire professional before making the switch.
Winter vs Summer Tires
Summer tires, winter tires… what makes them so different? A lot.
The biggest difference lies in their materials and design. Winter tires are constructed with softer rubber compounds that remain flexible in freezing temperatures and are specifically designed to grip snow and ice. Summer tires, on the other hand, are engineered with stiffer rubber that provides better grip and control in warm weather.
Using the wrong tire for the season can impact your safety, fuel economy, and even the wear and tear on your vehicle. That’s why it’s crucial to understand which type of tire is best suited for your current driving conditions.
Different Treads for the Weather
Tread patterns also vary significantly between winter and summer tires. Summer tires typically have fewer grooves and a more streamlined tread design that maximizes contact with the road, ideal for dry performance driving.
On the flip side, winter tires feature deeper treads and more sipes, or tiny slits in the tread, that help channel snow and slush away from the tire and grip icy surfaces.
Summer Tire’s Grip
The compound of summer tires is explicitly designed to handle heat. Their rubber is formulated to remain firm in higher temperatures, providing better cornering, shorter stopping distances, and an overall smoother driving experience. That extra grip can make all the difference in both everyday driving and emergency maneuvers during warmer months.
When Should You Switch to Summer Tires
While late June marks the official start of summer, you don’t have to wait until then to enjoy these tires’ benefits. As soon as temperatures stay consistently above 45°F, which is typically in early to mid-spring for much of the Midwest, it’s safe to consider the switch.
Still, do so with caution. Spring weather in our area can be fickle, with one last cold snap after weeks of pleasant temperatures always a possibility. Be sure to monitor the forecast and consult with a trusted tire specialist before switching to your winter tires.
Benefits of Switching to Summer Tires Early
So, assuming the temperatures are where they should be, why should you consider switching to summer tires before the season officially begins in late June?
- Improved fuel efficiency: Summer tires reduce rolling resistance, which can help your vehicle burn less fuel.
- Better performance: With their optimized rubber compound and tread design, summer tires enhance steering and braking performance.
- Extend the life of your winter tires: Removing them early, once it’s safe, prevents unnecessary wear and preserves their effectiveness for next season.
- Safer handling: Summer tires grip the road better in warmer weather, offering more stability and reducing your risk on the road.
Find The Right Tire For Your Car
Ready to make the switch? Let the experts at Telle Tire & Auto Centers help you find the perfect set of summer tires for your car, truck, or SUV. With convenient locations across Missouri and a reputation for excellence in tire services, we’ll make sure your vehicle is equipped for peak performance this season.
Find a location near you and schedule your seasonal tire change today.