Winter Tire Maintenance

Winter driving is tough on motorists and vehicles. To minimize the dangers associated with winter driving, both the vehicle and the driver must be prepared in advance. For the driver this means approaching winter driving with the right frame of mind.

Remember that tires are the only contact your vehicle has with the roadway. The amount of traction that exists between the tires and the roadway surface determines how well the vehicle starts, turns and stops.

Severely underinflated tires provide less grip surface to the road, compromising steering, maneuvering and braking—all of which are even more essential during winter driving conditions. Tire neglect can also cause blowouts, resulting in "fish tailing," which is particularly hazardous on slick roads. Underinflated tires also can reduce gas mileage.

Replacing tires can be expensive, but that painful experience can be delayed with regular tire inspection and rotation. To help drivers make it through the toughest winter conditions, AAA and the Tire Industry Safety Council offer a few additional tips:

• Never reduce tire pressure to increase traction in snow, ice or mud.

• If you use chains, make sure they are the right type and size for your tires. Mis- matched chains can cause tire failure.

• Check your tire pressure frequently in cold weather. The tires will lose about 1 p.s.i. (pound per square inch) of pressure for every 10 degrees fahrenheit of temperature drop.

• Check your tires air pressure at least twice a month. Make sure the maximum tire pressure does not exceed that shown on the tire sidewall (the number is molded into the rubber).

• Check the tread of your tire in relation to its tread-wear indicator.

• Read over the owner’s manual for specific tire rotation information.

• Always drive at a speed that matches the prevailing visibility, traffic and road conditions.

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Published in the February 2001 issue of the AAA Traveler.