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Ask the Experts
Be Ready in Winter
Top 5 Winter Parts and Accessories
»
OpenRoad Driver asked our parts experts for
a list of the essential parts and accessories
for winter. When should you swap out those
summer tires or all-seasons for winter tires?
How long do windshield wipers typically last?
How do I make my battery last longer in the
winter? Here’s our Top 5 list and the things
you need to know for safer and better driving
in winter weather.
1. WINTER TIRES
WHY GET WINTER TIRES?
The number one factor for winter tires is drastically improved safety
in wintery road conditions. Most people do not buy winter tires
because they don’t want to spend money on an extra set of tires.
Remember that winter tires will double the life of your summer tires
because you only run them half the year. They also extend the useful
life of your all-season tires. In the end it’s not an extra set of tires –
you are putting off buying your next set and getting more life out of
the ones you already have.
W H E N S H O U L D I R E P L AC E T H E T I R E S ?
Winter tires are a must-have in any climate where the temperature
drops below 7 degrees Celsius. With today’s advances in rubber
technology, winter tires give you more grip as soon as the
temperature drops below 7 degrees, regardless of road conditions.
KEEP IN MIND:
Winter or summer, tires are your vehicle’s only physical attachment to the road. They are also an important part of the suspension system.
Your vehicle is designed with specific tires in mind, so the tire size, load and speed ratings must match the original tires on the vehicle.
Changing these will affect the speedometer and odometer readings, the ride quality, the handling, and therefore, your safety.