There is new technology in the world of car tires. Tire manufacturers have started making tires with advanced rubber compounds that create better traction in the winter months; handling safely through snow, ice and cold rain. The key to these new compounds is that it allows the tire to remain flexible under the coldest and harshest conditions.
Not only are the tires better equipped to handle the conditions, they perform better, as well. When compared to the typical all season tire, they showed an improved safety margin with an increased stopping power of 7-10%.
These would serve you best if you lived in an area with an extended period or year round condition of harsh or extreme elements. For a driver residing in an area with typical season changes you may not need to utilize such tires. If you decide your used Toyota could use a set of these tires, change them in mid to late fall.
It is more effective to change all four tires at once, rather than two at a time. It may be cost effective to replace two at a time, but wouldn’t be worth it if something were to happen as a result. Upon installation, properly inflate the tires. Doing so will allow the tires to work as they were made, and decrease the chances of an accident due to losing control of your vehicle.
As the temperature outside decreases, so may the pressure of your tires. Check the pressure of your tires, at minimum, monthly. On average, for every five degrees the temperature drops, you lose one pound of pressure in your tires. Be sure to check the pressure directly after the first cold snap.
The winter tires, when installed and inflated properly, will allow you to maneuver through snow and ice with minimal effort. Not only will they be a smart investment, they will provide added safety for you and your family.