Do I Really Need Winter Tires? - Auto Medics

Montana’s winter isn’t exactly a gentle breeze. If you’ve experienced even one winter here, you know what we’re talking about, icy roads, snow-covered highways, and unpredictable weather conditions.

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Let’s break down why winter tires might just be your best friend when the temperature drops and how they can help keep you safe during Montana’s brutal winters.

Why Winter Tires Matter in Montana's Harsh Winters

Montana’s winter conditions are notorious for changing in a flash. One minute, you’re driving on a clear road, and the next, you’re navigating through snow, ice, or even freezing rain. While all-season tires are a popular option for their versatility, they aren't designed to tackle extreme winter conditions. That’s where winter tires come in.

Why are winter tires better for Montana? It's all about the design. Winter tires are made with a special rubber compound that remains flexible in low temperatures, giving you better traction on ice and snow. They also have deeper treads and unique patterns that help channel away slush and snow, keeping your tires in contact with the road.

In short, winter tires are built to give you more control when the roads turn slick. With Montana’s unpredictable weather, having that extra grip can mean the difference between a smooth drive and a dangerous one.

What Are Winter Tires?

You’ve probably heard the term “winter tires” before, but what exactly sets them apart from your average all-season tire?

Winter tires are specifically designed for cold weather performance. Unlike regular tires, winter tires are made with softer rubber compounds that remain flexible even in freezing temperatures. This flexibility helps the tire grip the road better, whether you're driving through fresh snow, slush, or ice.

Another key feature of winter tires is the deep, aggressive tread pattern. These treads are designed to dig into snow and provide extra traction on slippery surfaces. They also have small grooves, called sipes, that help improve grip on icy roads by biting into the surface.

Winter tires aren’t just for deep snow. They are effective in all types of winter conditions—whether it's snow, ice, or just cold, dry pavement.

When Should I Get Winter Tires in Montana?

Timing is crucial when it comes to switching to winter tires. In Montana, winter weather can hit as early as October, so it's a good idea to make the change before the first snowfall.

Most tire experts recommend installing winter tires when the temperature consistently drops below 45°F. Why? Because regular tires harden in the cold, reducing their ability to grip the road. Winter tires, on the other hand, stay soft and pliable, giving you the traction you need even on those cold but snow-free days.

If you wait too long, that first icy morning could catch you off guard. To stay ahead of the game, consider scheduling your winter tire changeover in late October or early November—before winter driving becomes a challenge.

Do I Need Snow Tires or Winter Tires?

You might be wondering, “What’s the difference between snow tires and winter tires?”

In most cases, the terms are used interchangeably. However, winter tires is the broader term that covers tires designed for various cold-weather conditions, including ice, slush, and freezing rain. Snow tires, on the other hand, are specifically designed to perform in deep snow.

Montana drivers typically benefit more from winter tires, which are versatile enough to handle not just snow, but also icy or slushy roads. Unless you're constantly driving through unplowed roads or heavy snowdrifts, winter tires will likely be the best option for your needs.

What Winter Tires Do I Need?

Now that you know winter tires are essential, let’s talk about what kind you should get. Montana’s varied terrain and road conditions mean that different types of winter tires may work better for different driving situations.

Studded Tires

• Studded tires come with small metal studs embedded into the tread. These studs provide extra traction on ice, making them ideal for mountainous regions or if you frequently drive on icy backroads. However, studded tires are noisy and can damage paved roads, which is why they’re not always the best choice for city driving.

Studless Winter Tires

• For most Montana drivers, studless winter tires are a solid choice. These tires offer excellent performance in snow and ice without the noise or road wear of studs. Studless tires are designed to grip cold, slippery roads and provide stable braking on icy surfaces. Some popular brands are Bridgestone or Continental, which are known for their traction and longevity.

How Winter Tires Keep You and Others Safe

One of the biggest benefits of winter tires is the safety they provide. In Montana, where winter driving conditions can be unpredictable, having the right tires can make a huge difference in your ability to stop quickly and maintain control.

Studies show that vehicles equipped with winter tires have a 30-40% shorter braking distance on icy roads compared to those with all-season tires. This extra stopping power can be a lifesaver when you’re driving in less-than-ideal conditions, whether you're navigating slick highways or snowy side streets.

By investing in winter tires, you’re not just protecting yourself, but also helping to keep other drivers on the road safe. Better grip means fewer accidents, and that’s something everyone can appreciate.

Winter Tire Myths Busted

Let’s debunk a couple of common myths about winter tires:

Myth 1: All-season tires are just as good in the winter.

While all-season tires offer versatility, they don’t perform nearly as well as winter tires in cold temperatures. Once the temperature drops below 45°F, the rubber in all-season tires hardens, reducing their ability to grip the road.

Myth 2: Winter tires are only necessary for deep snow.

Winter tires are designed to handle all types of winter conditions, not just snow. Their soft rubber compounds and deep treads also improve traction on icy or wet roads. So even if you’re driving on plowed streets or cold, dry pavement, winter tires will give you a safer, more stable ride.

Ready to Switch to Winter Tires? Contact Auto Medics Today!

Montana winters can be tough, but your driving experience doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting for the season, having the right winter tires will keep you safe and in control on the road.

Winter weather driving

We have four tips that will make your driving more fuel efficient. Be kind to the environment and spend your money on Christmas gifts rather than gasoline! Our winter fuel economy tips include:

1. Follow tips from the EPA for fuel economy in cold weather
2. Check tires to ensure correct pressure
3. Clean air filter
4. Eliminate extra weight from the vehicle
   

Cold weather fuel economy (or lack thereof)

The average gas mileage for typical city driving is about 12% lower at 20°F than at 77°F. Gas mileage can even drop as much as 22% on even shorter trips (3 to 4 miles). Hybrids fare even worse, with their fuel economy typically dropping 31% to 34%.

While cold weather and winter driving conditions reduce fuel efficiency, there are things you can do to mitigate this. With the extra money you have to spend on energy in winter to heat your home, it seems unfair that you also have to shell out more on energy to fuel your car. Can’t a Michigander get a break?

For more information, please visit Fuel Efficient Winter Tires.

The answer is “yes!”

Why you get worse gas mileage in winter

Cold weather affects your vehicle, resulting in poorer fuel economy.

• The engine and transmission friction increases in cold temperatures. Overcoming friction is responsible for over one-third of fuel consumption.
• The engine takes longer to reach its most fuel-efficient temperature.
• Heated seats, defrosters, and heater fans demand energy.
• Warming up your vehicle before you start your trip means you get 0 miles per gallon before you even move!
• Cold air is denser, increasing aerodynamic drag on your vehicle. Not what you want when you’re going 70mph!
• Tire pressure decreases in the cold, which increases rolling resistance. This means more energy is needed to turn your tires the same number of rotations than is needed in warmer conditions.
• Winter gasoline can have slightly less energy per gallon than in summer.
• The cold weather makes it harder for your alternator to keep your battery charged. For hybrids, this affects the performance of the regenerative braking system as well.
• Icy or snow-covered roads decrease your traction, consuming more energy.
• Safe driving speeds on slick roads (when advisably followed) can reduce fuel economy, especially below 30 to 40 mph.
• Four-wheel / all-wheel drive increases fuel consumption.
  

Follow tips from the EPA for fuel economy in cold weather

The Environmental Protection Agency has winter fuel economy tips to improve your fuel efficiency in cold weather. Don’t be left out in the cold! Read them.

While you aren’t going to get gas mileage like you do in summer, there are many tricks to minimize your fuel usage. Take it from the EPA:

• Park your car in warmer places, like a garage, so it won’t take as long for the engine to reach its optimum running temperature.
• Combine trips. Then you’ll spend a smaller fraction of drive time just to increase the temperature of the engine.
• Minimize idling your car to warm it up. Most manufacturers recommend waiting only 30 seconds. Driving warms up the engine faster, allowing the heat to turn on sooner.
• Don’t use seat warmers or defrosters unnecessary. Wear extra layers instead.
• If you drive a plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle, use seat warmers instead of the cabin heater.
• For plug-in hybrid or electric vehicles, preheating the cabin while plugged into the charger can extend your vehicle’s range.
• Use the oil your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends for cold weather.
• Remove accessories that increase wind resistance, like roof racks (unless, of course, you bike in winter!)
• Regularly check tire pressure.
  

Check tires to ensure correct pressure

While mentioned in the EPA’s winter fuel economy tips, we’d like to underscore the importance of this advice. So, make sure to check your tire pressure and tread depth!

Check tire pressure with a simple gauge sold at any auto supply store, including Thelen Auto Group. Follow your manual’s recommendations for pressure level and fill up tires with air at a gas station if needed. Most gas stations offer tire air fill-ups for free with a gasoline purchase.

You should check your tires to ensure they have appropriate amounts of tread. Use the “Lincoln Test.” Insert a penny into your tire’s tread headfirst (Lincoln’s head that is!) If you can still see all of Lincoln’s head, replace the tires. Thanks, Old Abe!

Since Michigan is a wintry climate, you might want to install winter tires before the season hits. (If you have questions, let us know!)

Clean air filter

The advice to clean your air filter is sound advice for old cars. However, it isn’t such a concern in modern vehicles with computer chips making calculations and correcting for air flow. So, if your car is old, get your air filter changed for fuel economy. If your car is new, get your air filter changed anyway, but for the reason of increased vehicle performance.

Eliminate extra weight from the vehicle

Think of all the things in your truck bed or cargo in trunk that you’re not currently using (excluding emergency items).

Of all of the winter fuel economy tips this is the most intuitive, yet it’s often forgotten. Any extra weight is weight your car has to use power to carry around. If you don’t need it where you’re going, don’t bring it!

Stay safe!

We at Thelen Auto Group wish everyone a safe – and fuel-efficient! – winter season. Looking for a new ride or in need of winter tires? Stop in and visit us!

Have any winter fuel economy tips? Share them in the comments!

Links:

https://www.thinkthelen.com/

https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/coldweather.shtml

https://exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/

https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/my-money//11/03/5-steps-to-prepare-your-car-for-winter

https://www.fordlincolnoffranklin.com/blogs/730/you-think-a-dirty-engine-intake-air-filter-causes-lousy-fuel-economy-not-quite/

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases//01/.htm

https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/videos/682-what-is-rolling-resistance

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