“Can I drive with all-season tires all year?” or “When is the best time for a tire change?” – These are questions many drivers ask themselves. The topic of all-season tires, in particular, often causes uncertainty. This article aims to shed light on the subject and provide you with all the important information about “changing all-season tires.”
What Are All-Season Tires Anyway?
All-season tires, also known as all-weather tires, are designed to provide good driving characteristics in both summer temperatures and snow and ice conditions. They represent a compromise between summer and winter tires. But does that mean you can drive on them all year without ever having to change them?
Close-up of an all-season tire tread pattern
The Truth About Driving “All Year Round”
While all-season tires are designed for use under various weather conditions, experts advise against using them all year round. Why? Because every tire type has its limits.
“An all-season tire is always a compromise,” says Dr. Markus Schmidt, tire specialist at ADAC. “In summer, it is not as capable as a summer tire, and in winter, it is not as safe as a winter tire.”
Especially in extreme temperatures, whether in the height of summer or during severe frost, all-season tires do not achieve the same performance as their specialized counterparts.
When Should You Change All-Season Tires?
The optimal time for a tire change depends heavily on individual driving habits and climatic conditions. However, as a rule of thumb:
- Summer Tires: From Easter to October
- Winter Tires: From October to Easter
- All-Season Tires: Can be driven year-round but should be replaced with their specialized counterparts during extreme temperatures.
Tip: Pay attention to the “O to O Rule”!
Mechanic changing a car tire in a workshop
Changing All-Season Tires: What to Watch Out For?
- Tread Depth: The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. However, experts recommend a tread depth of at least 4 mm to ensure sufficient grip even in wet and snowy conditions.
- Tire Pressure: Correct tire pressure is crucial for driving safety and tire wear. Check the tire pressure regularly, ideally every two weeks.
- Tire Age: Even if the tread depth is still sufficient, tires should be replaced after 8 years at the latest. Over time, the rubber ages and becomes porous, which negatively affects driving characteristics.
Conclusion: Change All-Season Tires – Yes or No?
All-season tires are a good option for drivers who are accustomed to moderate climatic conditions and are only rarely exposed to extreme temperatures. However, in extreme temperatures, summer or winter tires should be fitted to ensure optimal driving safety. In any case, pay attention to the tread depth, tire pressure, and tire age.
Do you still have questions about “changing all-season tires” or need assistance with choosing tires? Contact us! Our experts at AutoRepairAid are happy to assist you with advice and support.
More Interesting Topics About Vehicle Care:
- Storing Summer Tires Correctly: How Your Tires Survive the Warm Season
- Winter Tire Requirement: When Do I Need to Change?
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System: How It Works!
Visit our website autorepairaid.com for more helpful tips and tricks for your vehicle!
