Getting your car ready for winter
Story By: Abby Lane
Source: KOAA
Many drivers change to snow tires at the end of October, or beginning of November. If you haven't done it yet, now's a good time. "They have softer compounds to help bite on the ice and snow," said Steve West, manager of Goodyear on Austin Bluffs in the Springs.
The deep treads on winter tires give you traction, making it easier to go on icy or snowy roads. One way to check if your tires need to be replaced is with a penny. Put it into the tire's tread with Lincoln's head down. If you can see the top of his head, you need new tires.
Best says it's better to replace all four tires at the sime time, which can cost between $350 to $600 .
"You might have excellent snow tires up front and just run an all-season on the rear. Your fronts will grip, your rears will slide and you can go for a spin," he said.
All-season tires will also get you where you need to go, but check the treads before heading out.
"If you do run an all season tire, you need to make sure it has an aggressive tread rating to handle the snow and ice we occasionally run into," he said.
Also make sure you have enough anti-freeze, washer fluid and oil, and check the air pressure once a month. Most importantly, check your speed when driving on slippery, wet roads.
