For the residents and drivers of the warmer, more tropical climates, the idea of driving in the snow or considering winter tires is probably not on the short list of things to do this year. However, many people are forced to trudge through the snow and ice for weeks, sometimes months on end each year. If you happen to reside in an area that gets a significant amount of snowfall each year you may need to consider purchasing a set of winter tires. Toyota cars are built for reliability and safety, but a set of winter tires will increase your safety while driving.

The tread on a winter or snow tire varies from the tread on a regular tire. A winter tire has a wider tread to allow for better traction, by increasing the depth the tire can reach in the snow. By treading deeper in the snow the better the grip of the tire and the easier it becomes to maneuver through it. Tread on a normal tire is shorter in depth and not designed for excessive snowfall and adverse conditions. It is true that under normal circumstances the more rubber on the road, the better the grip of the tire. Under snowy circumstances, though, you still need the traction, but in order to achieve that you need a deeper tread on your tire.

The actual material make up of a winter tire varies from that of a normal tire, as well. The rubber used for a winter tire is designed to hold up to the vast temperature differences than others times of the year. When temperatures fall below zero it puts added stress on the tires. For a normal tire under such conditions the rubber may freeze and crack. A winter tire is designed to withstand extremely cold temperatures.

If you’re driving on a set of all season tires, you are probably safe depending on the area you live. If you experience the harshest of winters it would be wise to purchase a set of winter tires. If you are unsure you may contact the St. Louis Toyota dealer where you purchased your car and speak with the service department, or even the manufacturer.