Winter tire tips for safe driving
Control has always been a top priority for Pirelli.
Thanks to the passion for innovation of our engineers and the exclusive experience of F1®, Pirelli’s tires offer increased control on the road.
Why to use pirelli winter tires
On wet roads or snow, but also on dry surfaces with low external temperatures, winter tires increase control compared to summer tires because they are specially designed for low temperatures. Summer tires are engineered for performance in warm weather; winter tires use rubber compounds and tread patterns designed for grip and control in cold winter conditions.
The particular winter tread pattern has a high drainage level in order to prevent risk of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can occur on wet surfaces or in the presence of water holes. This is when vehicles “float” due to the tires’ inability to expel the water.
When temperatures fall below 45° F, winter tires reduce braking distance by 10% on wet surfaces and by 20% on snow compared with summer tires.
Mounted at the beginning of the season, winter tires make it possible to drive on dry and wet roads as well as snow, maintaining maximum control thanks their innovative research technology. According to law, they must offer the same control in winter conditions as snow chains. However, snow chains take up a lot of space in your car and limit your maximum driving speed to 30 mph, producing high levels of noise and drastically reducing comfort while driving.
At equivalent speeds, winter tires offer higher performance in any conditions under 45° F. An increased grip guarantees a high level of traction, stability and braking efficiency which translate to excellent comfort while driving.
Winter tires allow you to travel from autumn to spring without being held back by weather conditions.
The particular winter tread pattern has a high drainage level in order to prevent risk of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can occur on wet surfaces or in the presence of water holes. This is when vehicles “float” due to the tires’ inability to expel the water.
When temperatures fall below 45° F, winter tires reduce braking distance by 10% on wet surfaces and by 20% on snow compared with summer tires.
Mounted at the beginning of the season, winter tires make it possible to drive on dry and wet roads as well as snow, maintaining maximum control thanks their innovative research technology. According to law, they must offer the same control in winter conditions as snow chains. However, snow chains take up a lot of space in your car and limit your maximum driving speed to 30 mph, producing high levels of noise and drastically reducing comfort while driving.
At equivalent speeds, winter tires offer higher performance in any conditions under 45° F. An increased grip guarantees a high level of traction, stability and braking efficiency which translate to excellent comfort while driving.
Winter tires allow you to travel from autumn to spring without being held back by weather conditions.
WINTER TIRE MAINTENANCE
Check winter tire pressure
For winter tires, a rise in pressure of 0.2 bar is recommended due to thermal fluctuation that leads to a decrease in tire pressure. It is preferable to measure pressure in cold conditions at least 30 minutes after using the vehicle, in order to be sure that the heat produced while driving has not modified the pressure. The winter tires check has to be performed not only after traumas (such as bumping the tires), but at least once a month.
Tire lifespan
Durability
When not in use, winter tire must be preserved, preferably inflated, with rims put on and pressure under control periodically. The best way to save them is positioning in a single line on shelves vertically, at least 4 inches from the ground, with the lateral side in a vertical way in order to not affect the profile.
Winter tires
WINTER DRIVING TIPS
Smooth movements
Avoid abrupt acceleration or braking that can make the vehicle lose grip on wet or snowy surfaces. Also avoid exaggerated steering.
Always use four winter tires
Uniform equipment is necessary to ensure excellent performance and safety while driving. Always use 4 winter tires of the same brand and with the same design characteristics.
Check speed limit
Pay attention to the speed limits described on the external side of the tire. It is possible to use winter tires with a lower speed indication than that stated by law.
Tires rotation
Tire rotation gives tires even wear and increased durability. Rotation of winter tires must be carried out every 5,000/7,000 miles.
Check the tread
Winter tire performance is excellent on snow at a tread depth of 5/32”. By law, a minimum tread depth of 2/32” is required for winter tires.
Store carefully
If you don’t use your tires, they must be stored inflated, with controlled pressure. The best way to preserve tires is to store them vertically in a single file of shelves, at least 4 inches above the ground.
How to recognize winter tires
They are easily recognizable because they have a M+S (Mud&Snow) marking on the side and a mountain with a snowflake symbol.
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