Winter tires are built for cold, icy conditions—but once the snow melts and the roads warm up, they’re no longer the best tool for the job. Keeping winter tires on through spring and summer can lead to faster wear, poor handling, and even increased stopping distances—especially in wet conditions. Here’s why switching to all-season or summer tires is essential once temperatures rise.
The Downsides of Using Winter Tires in Warm Weather
1. Faster Tire Wear
Winter tires are made with softer rubber compounds designed to stay flexible in cold temperatures. In warmer weather, this softness causes them to wear down much quicker than all-season or summer tires.
2. Reduced Performance on Wet Roads
Contrary to what some may think, winter tires don’t perform better in rain. In fact, they can have longer stopping distances on wet pavement due to their deeper tread patterns and softer rubber, which can compromise grip.
3. Decreased Fuel Efficiency
The increased rolling resistance of winter tires means your engine has to work harder—especially on dry roads. This can lead to lower fuel economy over time.
4. Poor Handling and Stability
Winter tires are not optimized for warm road conditions. They may feel less responsive in turns, making for a less stable and less confident drive.
5. Uneven Tread Wear
Keeping winter tires year-round can lead to uneven wear patterns, which shortens their lifespan and makes them less effective when winter returns.
Other Warm Weather Prep Tips
While switching out your tires is key, it’s also worth giving your vehicle a quick summer check-up. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Check your A/C system: Ensure it’s cooling efficiently before the hot days hit.
- Inspect fluid levels: Top up or replace coolant, windshield washer fluid, and engine oil as needed.
- Test your battery: Extreme winter temps can strain batteries—have yours tested for summer reliability.
- Clean the undercarriage: Remove built-up salt and grime to prevent corrosion.
- Swap out wiper blades: Winter blades can wear out quickly and streak in summer rain.
The Bottom Line
Driving on winter tires in warm weather can lead to faster wear, reduced performance, and even safety risks. Making the seasonal switch is a small step that makes a big difference for your vehicle’s handling and longevity. And with a few extra maintenance checks, you can hit the road with confidence all season long.
How Birchwood Can Help
Not sure if your tires are ready to swap? Need a summer vehicle check-up? Birchwood’s expert technicians are here to help. From seasonal tire changes to multi-point inspections, we’ll make sure your vehicle is prepared for warmer weather.
Book your service appointment today and learn more at birchwood.ca.
