(NC) Last year as the pandemic hit Canada and lockdowns began, many of us put off routine vehicle maintenance, including changing winter tires back to all-season tires.
But its important to take the necessary maintenance precautions before hitting the road. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Change is a good thing
Above 7°C, winter tires on the road is like bare feet on hot sand, so don’t wait until summer to swap out your tires. Make the change back to all-seasons when the weather reaches 7°C or higher consistently.
Time for a change?
Checking your tires for wear and damage is essential for determining if your tires will keep you safe. An easy way to check your tread is by grabbing a quarter. With the head-side down, select a point where the tread appears lowest and insert the figurehead into the groove.
If you can see the tip of the caribou’s muzzle, the tread has thinned and the tire is worn out and you should consider getting a new set of tires. If in doubt, ask your local automotive service provider to verify it for you.
Looking for an upgrade?
If your tires are worn and you need a replacement, consider a set of all-season tires that will keep you moving right through to the next time your winter tires need to be put back on. For example, Blackhawk tires are known for their durability, strength and traction. Best of all, theyre affordable and won’t break the bank.
It matters where you store your winter tires
Make sure to store your tires in a room thats cool, dry and dark. If your tires are on rims and piled together, make sure you reconfigure the pile every four weeks. Or skip the hassle and free up some space by storing your tires at your nearest OK Tire location.
Find more tips at oktire.com.
