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How do I know if my tyres are okay for winter?
Regardless of your tyre type, tread depth is crucial for traction. To check your tyre tread, look for ‘wear indicators’ – small, raised bars within the tread grooves. If the tread level reaches or is below these bars, your tyres are worn and don’t provide adequate grip. Replacing them is vital for winter safety.
You should also consider the severity of winter in your area. If you experience occasional light snow or freezing temperatures, all-season tyres with good tread depth will suffice. However, for regions with regular heavy snowfall, icy roads, or freezing temperatures, winter tyres are highly recommended for optimal safety and control.
How do you know if your tyres are winter tyres?
Symbols on your tyres are a dead giveaway. Look for the mountain snowflake symbol or similar. This symbol signifies tyres certified for superior snow performance, meeting strict international safety standards. Beyond markings, physical characteristics such as the tread pattern reveal a tyre’s winter readiness. Winter tyres boast an aggressive tread design compared to their all-season counterparts.
How do you check winter tyre tread?
For the most accurate reading, invest in a trusty tread depth gauge. This handy tool lets you measure the tyre most accurately. Simply insert the gauge into the tread grooves at multiple points across the tyre, focusing on the central three-quarters for consistency. If your tread depth dips below this threshold, it’s time to bid farewell to those tyres and welcome a fresh set for safe winter travels.
How do I know if my tyres are for summer or winter?
Check the tread pattern. Summer tyres have shallower treads with fewer grooves, optimised for dry roads and warm weather. Winter tyres, on the other hand, sport a more aggressive design. Think deeper grooves, and overall chunkier blocks, all working together to bite into snow and ice for superior traction. Winter tyres also feature a symbol like a snowflake nestled amidst three snowy peaks.
Do all weather tyres have the snowflake symbol?
No, not all all-weather tyres have the coveted snowflake symbol! While some high-performing all-weather tyres can tackle light snow and colder temperatures, only those meeting a specific set of traction standards earn the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol. This symbol acts like a certification badge, assuring you that the tyre has passed rigorous testing for snow performance.
How much tread do I need for winter?
In the UK, the law says the minimum tread depth is a measly 1.6mm. While legal, it’s hardly a champion on snow and ice. For winter tyres, aim for a thriving 5mm of tread depth. These deeper grooves are snow-gobbling beasts, channelling away slush and biting into ice for superior traction. All-season tyres can handle milder winters with 3mm of tread. If you commonly encounter icy roads and heavy snowfall, consider upgrading to dedicated winter tyres for optimal safety.
