Сколько шипов должно оставаться в шиповке, чтобы на ней безопасно ездить? | Обслуживание | Авто

Шипы в зимних колесах значительно улучшают поведение автомобиля на обледенелой дороге. В пятне контакта всегда работают 8-9 металлических зубьев, которые вгрызаются в лед и препятствуют скольжению. На твердом покрытии шипы могут прятаться в свои гнезда, предоставляя возможность резиновому протектору с ломелями обеспечивать сцепление. Мелкая нарезка ломелей обволакивает поверхность дороги и словно присасывается к ней. В этом случае шипы перестают работать, и сцепные свойства колеса определяются характеристиками протектора и состава резиновой смеси.

Сколько должно быть шипов?

В отечественных законодательных актах нет четкого указания насчет того, сколько шипов должна иметь покрышка. Правила дорожного движения тоже не содержат никаких требований к количеству шипов. Лишь в некоторых европейских странах утверждены предписания о том, что шиповки не могут содержать более 50 шипов на погонный метр шины во избежание высокого износа поверхностного слоя асфальтовых дорог. Это примерно 100 шипов на одном колесе размерности R16. Между тем в России таких строгих ограничений нет, и к нам могут поставляться шины для обледенелых дорог, имеющие 120, 180 и даже 190 шипов.

Нижний предел шипования в нормативных актах тоже не указан. Лишь в перечне неисправностей и в техническом регламенте Таможенного союза указывается требование к высоте протектора зимней шины. Она должна быть не менее 4 мм. Однако нормативы для шиповок есть у производителей, и, руководствуясь ими, можно оценить способность колеса обеспечивать заявленные характеристики движения.

Сколько шипов теряет колесо?

Обычно в первый год эксплуатации новая покрышка теряет не более 5% металлических зубьев. А это значит, что ослабление сцепления с ледяной дорогой будет наблюдаться в ничтожно малые промежутки времени. На характеристики движения это не влияет.

Во второй сезон эксплуатации частые поездки по асфальту в оттепели приводят к выпадению еще такого же количества шипов, а именно 5-10 штук. Колесо лишается уже 10% зубьев, отчего потери сцепления в пятне контакта будут наблюдаться чаще. Однако 90% шипов вполне достаточно, чтобы обеспечивать заявленные производителем характеристики.

После третьего сезона в шине не хватает примерно 20% зубьев, а после четвертого года — уже 30-40%. Четвертый год эксплуатации шиповок считается критическим. Резиновая смесь под воздействием дорожных химикатов и из-за солнечной радиации теряет эластичность, и шипы стремительно выпадают. Автомобиль уже хуже держит дорогу, так как в пятне контакта почти всегда не хватает пары зубьев. Хотя в повседневной эксплуатации изменения поведения машины практически незаметны и могут регистрироваться приборами только на специализированных площадках.

Высокий износ

После пятого года эксплуатации покрышка может лишиться более 50% своих шипов. Такое колесо в пятне контакта имеет постоянный дефицит зубьев. Вместо 8-9 штук работают только 4-5 шипов, отчего сцепные свойства заметно снижаются. Растет тормозной путь, это приходится принимать во внимание водителям и не лихачить, как прежде. Однако ездить на такой покрышке можно.

После шестого года эксплуатации хорошая импортная шипованная шина может лишиться 60-70% металлических зубьев, из-за чего наблюдаются заметные провалы в ее характеристиках. Если раньше она хорошо цеплялась за лед, то теперь делает это с ленцой, допуская большие проскальзывания во время торможения. Хотя ничего критичного нет. По своим характеристикам шиповки приближаются к обычным липучкам и вполне могут эксплуатироваться зимой, правда, и не так активно, как раньше.

Производители определяют срок службы любого колеса в 7 сезонов. Поэтому после седьмой зимы, когда на шиповке остается примерно 30-40% шипов, необходимо обязательно менять ее на новую. К тому времени протектор истирается до 4 мм, и эксплуатировать такое колесо уже запрещено ПДД.

сколько лет можно ездить на зимних шинах

Срок службы зимней шипованной резины — временной интервал безопасного использования, при условии применения покрышек по назначению и следованию всех советов изготовителя. Период эксплуатации обычно назначает изготовитель, если нет, то в России по закону это десятилетний срок. Но, как это обычно происходит, реальный период безопасного применения далек от заявленного, и причины этого разные, в основном, условия эксплуатации.

Период применения покрышек с шипами

Обычно изготовители сроком годности зимних шин считают гарантийный пятилетний период. Он берет отчет со дня изготовления (а не реализации) резины и может быть таким же или превосходить ресурс (реальный период использования) покрышек, который часто определяется страной-изготовителем:

Пример серии покрышки

• Европейские колеса (сезон «зима») обычно служат примерно 50 000-60 000 км.
• Отечественные покрышки на автомобиль — 20 000-40 000 км.
• Китайские шины на авто — 50 000-80 000 км.

Можно сделать вывод: даже новые недорогие шины эконом-класса при правильном использовании за 2 сезона не износятся. Дальше автовладелец должен самостоятельно контролировать состояние покрышек.

Тем автомобилистам, которые никак не могут выбрать между «шиповкой» или «липучками», стоит порекомендовать при иных равносильных условиях шипованные колеса. Как показала практика, служат они немного больше (их приблизительный ресурс 30 000 км) фрикционной резины.

Дата создания всегда промаркирована на изделии. Чем меньше шины хранились на складском помещении, тем длительнее их можно будет эксплуатировать.

Внимание!

Номер серии должен быть присвоен каждой партии изготавливаемых на заводе покрышек. Серия включает буквы на латыни и цифры. Маркировку можно видеть сбоку на изделии. С одной стороны покрышки нумерация воспроизводится полностью, с противоположной можно видеть только буквенно-цифровую серийную нумерацию. Серия нанесена на штамповке в виде овала. Это помогает распознать нумерацию. День выпуска резины — это конечные 3-4 цифры серии. Сегодня широко востребованы покрышки с четырехзначной нумерацией.

Эта наиболее комфортная система берет начало в 2000 гг. Первоначальные 2 цифры — это неделя изготовления покрышки, а две конечные — год. Есть и иные способы, как узнать дату создания резины для автотранспортного средства.

Чтобы не высчитывать дни и не ошибиться, эту работу можно «передать» автоматическому сервису. Для этого следует воспользоваться уникальным сервисом, виртуальным калькулятором, которых интернет предлагает очень много. Работают сервисы достаточно просто: автовладелец вносит в специальное поле калькулятора конечные 4 цифры серии, расположенные на изделии. В ответ на эти действия автовладелец на экране увидит информационные данные о дате создания покрышки.

Также водителям будет интересно знать, как выполнить расшифровку трехзначного кода, код со звездами и прочими вариантами.

Если на шине обнаружено не 4 цифры, а 3, это означает, что она изготовлена до 2000 гг. В такой ситуации цифровой номер обозначает следующее: начальные 2 цифры — это неделя изготовления изделия, а финишная цифра — год создания покрышки. Если серия окружена с двух сторон звездочками, такие покрышки были изготовлены в 80-х гг., а если после номера виден треугольничек и звезда, или пробел и маленькая звезда — в 90-х.

Какая износостойкость — факторы влияния

Хранение покрышек

На износ покрышек оказывает влияние большое число факторов: страна-изготовитель, автопробег, условия эксплуатирования и сохранение изделия вне сезона применения.

Сколько служит зимняя шипованная резина, зависит от следующих моментов:

• Способ хранения. Сохранять покрышки следует в прохладном, темном и сухом месте, например, в гараже. Слишком высокий температурный режим, влажность и ультрафиолет пагубно действуют на резиновую поверхность. Шины в сборке с дисками надо хранить горизонтально на стеллажах, а пустые шины правильно размещать в вертикальном положении.
• Давление в шинах. Систематически надо контролировать давление в покрышках — низкие показатели негативно скажутся на сроке применения. Передвигаться на перекаченных колесах также опасно, контроль надо проводить манометром. Для зимы идеальное давление на 0,2 бар выше.
• Стиль передвижения и состояние дорожного полотна. Для продолжительной эксплуатации покрышек нужно соблюдать некоторые рекомендации. Авто должно «ходить» на среднем скоростном режиме — не больше 90 км/ч. Так период эксплуатации ошипованной резины повысится на 40 %, если сравнивать с передвижением на скоростном режиме более 120 км/ч. Ездить необходимо плавно, без экстрима. Тормозить также надо плавно, чтобы не «жечь» покрышки. Любители дрифтинга тоже «золотые» клиенты специализированных магазинов по числу испорченной резины. В России две беды, и с одной из них (с некачественным дорожным полотном) много лет государство не без успеха ведет борьбу. Качество дорог влияет на срок службы зимней резины.
• Перегруз багажника. Это провоцирует неровное распределение нагрузки, что повышает процент изнашивания колес.
• Потеря правильного баланса колес и развала-схождения, еще одна опасность для резины автотранспортного средства. Это влияет на изнашивание автопокрышек. При замене шин с зимних на летние и в обратном порядке надо осуществлять балансировку в автосервисе. Также из-за утраты баланса схождения авто страдает маневренность, машину заносит, что может стать причиной ДТП. Чтобы этого не произошло, важно следить за развал-схождением на СТО.

Важно!

Пониженное на 2 Бар давление в покрышках увеличивает тормозной путь в полтора раза.

Принимая во внимание эти факторы, можно повлиять на срок годности зимней резины.

Сколько лет можно эксплуатировать

Трещины на покрышке

Если покрышки применяются грамотно, то их ресурс может достигать 100 000 км — автопробег, для преодоления которого водителю по статистике потребуется примерно 4 года. Специалисты советуют в конце зимнего сезона оценить состояние резины шипами. Если больше 50 % элементов на месте, это означает, что покрышки еще один сезон прослужат, но если их не хватает, можно передвигаться на колесах весь летний период до полного изнашивания, после чего следует приобрести новые колеса.

Сколько сезонов проходит резина

Причин изнашивания покрышек может быть достаточно много, однако их просто определить, важно изучить поверхность протекторного рисунка.

Если наружные края подвержены наиболее серьезному износу, чем центр протектора, это говорит о слабом или чрезмерном давлении в автошинах. А не одинаково износившиеся протекторные кромки исключительно с одной стороны сообщают водителю о проблемах с развалом-сходом. Помимо изнашивания, на то, сколько ходят покрышки, оказывает влияние и стиль передвижения на авто. У ценителей экстрима с резким тормозом протектор будет изнашиваться быстрее. Становится понятно, что влияет на долговечность не только то, на какой автопробег подходят колеса, но и прочие моменты:

• стиль езды;
• качество дороги;
• участие в аварийных ситуациях.

Важно помнить и о регулярном техническом осмотре, а также через каждые 14 дней надо контролировать давление в шинах.

Относительно баланса, так его следует делать через каждые 15 000 км автопробега. После наезда на препятствие необходимо осмотреть шины на присутствие повреждений и грыж.

Что заявляют изготовители

Маркировка «H»

Резина на автотранспортные средства, как и прочая продукция из резины, изнашивается. Инновационные смеси из уникальных ингредиентов сокращают этот процесс, но при продолжительном использовании вероятно развитие микроскопических трещин в протекторном рисунке и сбоку покрышек, которые часто приходят с деформированием каркасной конструкции, — это и подтвердит износ.

Совет!

 Эксперты дают совет заменять шины, когда срок использования закончится, даже если резина не применялась.

Безопасная эксплуатация резины актуальна обычно 6 лет со дня выпуска. Производитель «Мишлен» гарантирует срок эксплуатирования в пределах десятилетнего периода. Многие бренды придерживаются срока в 6 лет при условии, что у резины нет повреждений.

Помимо этого, очень важно отличать изделия по категориям. Понятно, что резина, промаркированная ZR (более 240 км/ч), при использовании с допустимым для нее скоростным режимом подвергается наиболее серьезным перегрузкам, чем покрышка категории S (до 180 км/ч). Скоростные изделия с индексом Н (до 210 км/ч), в целях создания безопасности при езде, должны применяться не больше 6 лет. Для жилых автомобильных прицепов (которые часто длительное время стоят со сниженным давлением в покрышках, и у которых малый автопробег) даже прекрасно сохранившиеся шины также должны заменяться спустя 6 лет, редко — 8. Это актуально и при хорошо сохранившейся резине. Определить возраст изделия довольно просто.

Внимание!

Основой в определении возраста продукции является маркировка DOT сбоку протектора, где указан день и год создания.

Для покрышек нужно брать отдельные диски, так как каждая перебортовка в разы снижает период использования автопокрышек. Помимо этого, диски зимой должны быть уже подготовлены для лета, чтобы не было спешки в подготовке весной.

Выбрать качественный продукт поможет менеджер специализированного магазина. Если следовать советам специалистов, то покрышки прослужат дольше, менять их раньше срока не потребуется.

90000 Should you underinflate your tires in winter? 90001 90002 Snow tires, all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, bags of kitty litter in the trunk — people will do just about anything to gain an edge when driving in snowy, icy winter weather. For the most part, these strategies are good ideas. After all, winter-slick roads raise the risk of having an accident, and the best way to survive a car accident is to prevent one from happening in the first place. One winter driving trick that some people swear by is underinflating their tires.90003 90002 To understand why some people think underinflating tires in winter is a good idea, you need to know what’s happening when your car goes into a skid (besides everyone in the car freaking out). No matter what the time of year, your car needs traction to stay on the road. Traction is the friction between two surfaces — in the case of a car, it’s the friction between the car’s tires and the road. That friction allows the tires to grip the road surface and not slide all over the place.The more traction you have, the better control you have. One of the key factors in traction is the tire’s 90005 contact patch 90006, or the amount of tire that’s physically touching the road. The bigger the contact patch, the more traction. 90003 90002 That’s what underinflation aficionados are thinking about when they let some of the air out of their tires in winter. When you underinflate a tire, it droops, letting more of the tire touch the road. In certain cases — like driving in some snowy conditions and on sand — underinflating your tires is a great tactic.90003 90002 There is, however, a rub when it comes to underinflating winter tires, and it goes back to that enlarged contact patch. Extra traction is a good thing when you’re driving in the snow, but it becomes a not-so-good thing once the roads are plowed. Underinflated tires will give you (believe-it-or-not) too much traction, which will lead to difficult steering — and a car you can not steer well, obviously, is not all that safe. Also, depending on the depth of the snow you’re driving in, properly inflated tires can sometimes more easily dig through the snow to the pavement below, whereas the wider underinflated tires will ride only on the surface of the snow.Finally, underinflation damages your tires and wheels. 90003 90002 So, underinflating your tires is one winter driving tip that you can definitely skip. Now, keeping a few dozen pounds of kitty litter in your trunk is another story. Not only is it handy when your car gets stuck in the snow, but you’ll also have a ready-made litter box for all the neighborhood felines when spring finally arrives. 90003 90014 Related Articles 90015 90014 Sources 90015 90018 90019 Connecticut Department of Transportation.»How to Deal with Ice and Snow!» State of Connecticut. (April 24, 2015) http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&q=259420 90020 90019 Magliozzi, Tom and Ray. «Car Talk: What’s the proper tire pressure on snow, ice? Loser cooks.» Seattle Post-Intelligencer. May 4, 2006. (April 24, 2015) http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Car-Talk-What-s-the-proper-tire-pressure-on-1202619.php 90020 90019 Rubber Manufacturers Association. «Winter Driving Tips.» (April 24, 2015) http://www.rma.org/tire-safety/seasonal-driving-tips/winter-driving-tips/ 90020 90025 .90000 Winter Tires: Here’s how to save money and stay on the road 90001 90002 Rather than despairing them as an inevitable cost of driving in Canada in winter, snow tires should be looked upon as a consumer challenge where savvy shoppers can get the best deal while keeping themselves safe on the road. 90003 90002 We are saturated with an abundance of different tire manufacturers, all clamouring for our money and continued loyalty. Mail-in rebates abound and the increase in specific size coverage means a much larger selection and more competitive prices.While the initial cost of winter tires (especially with the purchase of dedicated winter rims) can be substantial ($ 800 to $ 1,500 for popular mainstream vehicles), their use can save tread-wear on the summer set. If you factor in auto insurance premium discounts for the use of snow tires (usually five per cent), over the long term these car snow-boots do not have to be a financial burden. (As of Jan. 1st, 2016, all Ontario insurance companies will be required by law to offer some type of winter tire premium discount.Currently 45 per cent of private insurers do so and the average amount is five per cent. And of course with snow / winter tires there’s always the proven benefit of being able to make it through another winter unscathed.) 90003 90002 First off, size matters. It’s always good to review how tires are sized. It basically involves three physical dimensions and a load and speed rating. On the side-wall of your tires you’ll find an embossed set of numbers and letters indicating its specs (you’ll always need this before calling a retailer to check prices).It will usually appear like this: P225 / 75R16 or LT265 / 70R17. The P and LT stand for passenger and light truck tires, respectively. The next three numbers represent the tire’s width in millimetres and the next two numbers are the aspect ratio. This denotes the height of the tire’s side wall (the distance between the edge of the wheel rim and the top of the side wall where it meets the tread-face). The number 75 means the side wall is 75 per cent of the width measurement. Load and speed ratings seldom make a difference except for trucks and high-speed vehicles.If your current ride is shod with anything over 17-inches in diameter (the last two numbers of your tire’s size) or has an aspect ratio below 65, you can save considerable money by checking out optional sizes. 90003 Take Our Poll 90002 With the advice from a qualified tire retailer you can often choose a slightly narrower tread (much better in snow or slush) with a taller sidewall (often cheaper) but with the same overall circumference. This last measurement is crucial with modern autos and their numerous on-board computers.If you choose the wrong circumference (anything larger or smaller than three per cent of the original size) you may run into a host of problems from anti-lock brake failures, to transmission shifting faults, and so on, not to mention an inaccurate speedometer and odometer. If changing the diameter of the tire is being considered, remember you’ll also have to price replacement rims as well. Many winter tire users go with this option anyway to take advantage of lower seasonal change-over costs ($ 320 versus $ 60 per year on average).Winter rims also reduce the chance of damage to the tire or rim during dismount and mounting procedures and they will keep your alloy summer rims from the ravages of salt and winter grit. 90003 90002 It goes without saying, but using the proper tires in winter goes a very long way. 90003 90002 Sorting through the choices and prices is often hard without a baseline for comparison. No tire manufacturer publishes their prices on websites and few independent shops or regional / national chains offer this data.Two glaring exceptions are Canadian Tire and TireRack.com of the U.S. By perusing the CTC website you can find out the price range of most of the popular winter tires. Figures from TireRack have to be taken with a large grain of salt. Aside from the exchange rate and shipping costs, tires and other auto parts are priced very differently between Canada and the U.S. Knowing an average selling price is crucial to decide if you’re getting the most from a «Buy 3 Get 1 Free» advertised special (the most common tire promotion).Most retailers only apply a 20 to 25 per cent mark-up on tires, therefore some will quote the tire company’s MSRP as the selling price for the first three. This can be an inflated figure leaving little or no benefit to the consumer wishing to take advantage of an advertised special. So it pays to ask what price your retailer is using for a Buy 3 Get 1 special. 90003 90002 The top rated winter tires (as selected by the Automobile Protection Association) are Bridgestone Blizzak, Michelin X-Ice 2, Nokian Hakkapeliitta, and Toyo Observe Gsi5.Today, winter tires can be sorted into two basic categories: ice radials and traditional snow-treads. Ice radials are recognized by their very smooth (almost summer tire-like) profile while traditional snows have the large block design with deep wide grooves to keep snow and ice from packing up in the tread. Unless you regularly travel down deep snow covered roads, stick with the ice radials. They are considerably quieter and have less impact on fuel mileage while still providing great traction and control.90003 90002 Winter rims can also be obtained for competitive prices. First, avoid multi-fit rims that are made to fit more than one make / model of vehicle. These are seldom hub-centric which means the weight of the vehicle on multi-fits is supported by the wheel studs instead of the hub itself. In a curb-bump or pot-hole hit this can lead to wheel fastener damage. As well, many of these multi-fits require special wheel nuts or spacer / adapter plates. Direct fit rims are readily available for mainstream vehicles from a variety of sources.Most are priced in the $ 70 to $ 100 range for 17-inch and smaller sizes. Do not forget to check OEM dealerships when shopping, as many carmakers have gotten quite competitive in their steel rim pricing lately. 90003 90002 Some of the best deals for winter tires and rims can be found on sites like Kijiji. Many vehicle owners find out when they trade up to a newer vehicle that their winter tires and rims will not fit. They often list these items for sale online as few have the room to store them. Often these prices are less than half of retail.But be cautious. Unless a seller can confirm that the rims will fit your vehicle, be prepared to dry-fit one to make sure. Confirm the tire size is correct and check for tread-wear as well as dry-weather cracking. Small cracks that are not deep enough to expose the light coloured sidewall support cords under the rubber are OK. 90003 90002 Adis Mulic, a tire technician at Kal Tire, puts snow tires on a rim at his company’s shop in Calgary. 90003 .90000 Should I Inflate My Tires in Cold Weather 90001 90002 90003 Yes, you typically need to inflate your tires in cold weather. As we’ll explain, low temperatures often mean low tire pressure, and low tire pressure could mean dangerous driving. 90004 90002 With the promise of holiday travel up ahead, it’s time to prepare! Firestone Complete Auto Care is here to help you drive safer with a quick lesson on cold weather and tire pressure. 90004 90007 How Cold Weather Affects Tire Pressure 90008 90002 First, a quick science lesson: when the temperature drops, molecules in the air move slower and huddle together.When the temperature increases, molecules move faster and farther away from one another! 90004 90011 90012 90002 You can test this concept for yourself. Just set a basketball outside and wait! The ball will deflate in the cold morning air, then re-inflate in the heat of the afternoon. 90004 90002 When this concept plays out inside your tires, it can affect your tire pressure. 90004 90002 That’s because tires lose or gain 1-2 pounds per square inch (PSI) for every 10 ℉ change in temperature.So theoretically, your tires could lose 4 PSI over the weekend if the temperature drops by 20 ℉! 90004 90002 While your tire pressure should bounce back after the cold spell passes (assuming it 90020 does 90021 pass and your tires have no leaks or holes), low tire pressure should not be ignored. 90004 90002 Low tire pressure can lead to: 90004 90025 90026 90027 Increased stopping time: 90028 Underinflated tires can increase braking time and skid more easily on wet pavement. 90029 90026 90027 Poor fuel economy: 90028 Underinflated tires can lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop in the average pressure of all tires, notes the U.S. Department of Energy. 90029 90026 90027 Decreased tire lifespan: 90028 Underinflation can decrease the lifespan of your tires and make them more vulnerable to damage-all leading to you having to buy more tires, more often. 90029 90038 90007 How to Check Tire Pressure 90008 90002 A small decrease in tire pressure is hard for the naked eye to detect, but it can still have a big impact on your driving. Tires can lose pressure even when temperatures remain constant over the winter.To be safe, we recommend checking tire pressure every other time you visit the pump, and especially when your TPMS light pops on. 90004 90002 Here’s how: 90004 90045 1. Find your recommended tire pressure. 90046 90002 You can find it written in your owner’s manual or on a sticker attached to your door edge, glove box, or fuel hatch. Recommended tire pressure usually falls between 30-35 PSI. If you’re not sure, try our recommended tire pressure tool. 90004 90045 2. Check your tires before driving.90046 90002 Measure your tire pressure 90020 before 90021 driving, not after, for the most accurate reading. If your recommended tire pressure is 32 PSI, that means 32 PSI before you put rubber to the road. 90004 90045 3. Get out your tire pressure gauge. 90046 90002 Tire pressure gauges can be purchased for a few dollars at most big box retailers. «Pencil» style gauges are cheapest and have a little stick that pops out with the tire pressure reading. Digital tire pressure gauges are a bit more expensive but are extremely easy to use.90004 90045 4. Unscrew the valve stem cap on a tire. 90046 90002 This is the little black or silver screw-cap on your tire’s rim. It should be plainly visible from the outside of your car. 90004 90045 5. Attach the tire pressure gauge to the valve stem. 90046 90002 Follow the instructions that come with your tire pressure gauge. If there’s a hissing sound when you insert the gauge, it may not be properly aligned. Re-adjust the angle of the gauge until the hissing stops. What’s your tire pressure? Do your tires need to be inflated? 90004 90045 6.Replace the valve stem cap. 90046 90002 Repeat the process for each tire and note your tire pressure readings. 90004 90045 7. Inflate your tires, if needed. 90046 90002 There’s a good chance you’ll need to inflate your tires in winter at least once. If your tire pressure is low, find your nearest air pump. Add air until you reach your recommended tire pressure, or visit your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care and we’ll inflate your tires for you. 90004 90002 If you need help with any of these steps, please do not hesitate to stop by a local Firestone Complete Auto Care.Summer or winter, sunshine or snow-our knowledgeable technicians will check the health of your tires, inflate them to the recommended pressure, and guide you in buying new tires if yours show an alarming degree of wear. 90004.90000 Winter Tires 2017 — 2018: Best Car Winter Tires in Canada — Review 90001 90002 If you live in Canada then you are aware of the cold winter temperatures and driving conditions on icy roads. For safe and comfortable winter drives you would need winter tires to keep you going through all the ice and snow. It is important to strike the right balance between handling and traction in winter conditions. 90003 90002 The winter tires work like magic on icy slippery roads due to their premium rubber blend compounds, construction, and tread design.No doubt, most tire companies would have winter tires in their catalog to appeal to sedans and high-performance SUVs alike. The winter tires also do sell out fast and it is wise to get your best bargain when the mercury starts to drop. Once you see your breath in the crisp icy air, it is time to fit your winter tires! 90003 90006 Which Winter Tires Are Best In Canada 90007 90002 The harsh reality of Canadian winters is that the ice, snow, black ice and slush could play havoc while driving in varying road conditions.When you are shopping for winter tires then you may look for the familiar Alpine pictograph on the tire sidewall. This denotes that the tires have passed the test by Transport Canada to drive in typical Canadian winters. So, you may also be assured that these tires meet the Tire & Rubber Association of Canada requirements for traction. Also, when you install winter tires in Canada, get a set of 4 for safer and confident handling during winter driving. 90003 90002 There are so many types of winter tires in the market that leaves you confused as to which one to choose.Well, you may check out some of the top picks for 2017 as below. 90003 90012 General AltiMax Arctic 90013 90002 90015 90003 90002 Though very affordable, the Altimax Arctic from General tires have sipes for great traction. This works equally well in cold and wet wintry weather as they have multi-angle at 270 degrees. These tires also resist hydroplaning well and evacuate water faster to avoid skidding on slush. 90003 90012 Yokohama iceGUARD iG52c 90013 90002 90022 90003 90002 These winter tires from Yokohama suits dry, wet and icy road conditions due to triple action compounds.The sipes have 3D biting edges for improved traction and road contact is optimum due to the large control blocks. Silica compound channels away water faster for better traction in wet conditions. Lateral grooves give better control over watery slippery surfaces with snow. 90003 90012 Michelin X-Ice Xi3 90013 90002 90029 90003 90002 X-Ice Xi13 by Michelin is a sure winner when you fit them on your minivans and passenger cars. The cross Z pattern of sipes offers great traction on ice and snow.These tires boast of durable winter performance for over 60000 km. The unique tread pattern increases life and maximizes contact for better grip. Even in freezing temperatures, these tires will not fail you in flexibility from start to end of winter season. 90003 90012 Goodyear Ultra Grip Winter 90013 90002 90036 90003 90002 An affordable winter tire from Goodyear, the Ultra Grip Winter fits SUVs, cars, and minivans. Shorter stopping, strong grip and improved traction in slippery winter conditions are highlights of these tires.Even tread wear gives you handling confidence due to sturdy shoulder blocks. You may fit these with studs for better winter traction. The biting edges of these tires offer grip on multiple surfaces even when the roads are icy with great ride comfort. 90003 90012 Continental WinterContact SI 90013 90002 90043 90003 90002 You may fit these winter tires on your sedan, minivan, coupe or crossover and it will work equally well. The compounds used in the construction have many additives to enhance pliability and reliability in freezing weather.This suits handling in hotter and dryer temperatures too. These have edges placed dimensionally to bite on snow and also have the indicator to check tread depth for safety in snow. 90003 90012 Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 90013 90002 90050 90003 90002 The Blizzak WS80 by Bridgestone is one of the leading winter tires in Canadian markets. It has a great balance of stop and go traction that is necessary for winter conditions. The handling and comfort in the ride are far better than other brands. These tires have new cavity shape that allows for uniform contact pressure on icy and snowy roads.The hydrophilic covering makes stopping on ice and snow effective. 90003 90012 Falken EuroWinter HS449 90013 90002 90057 90003 90002 These winter tires from Falken perform consistently in winter conditions when other tires give up. They contain compounds that extend the tread life and will not fail you as an investment compared to its competitors. The driving control on dry and wet roads does remain consistent due to asymmetric treads. You may fit these winter tires on you coupes, sedans and wagons.90003 90012 Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 90013 90002 90064 90003 90002 If you do not go by the looks, these tires are surely a grab for winter road conditions. These have studs that are anchored for excellent grip and at the same time there is soft impact to outlast the cushion. The rear tread has saw tooth pattern the bites deep into thick snow and ice. You may get faster steering response with these tires as they have additional center reinforcement. 90003 90012 Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 90013 90002 90071 90003 90002 For light trucks, SUVs, and CUVs you may choose the Blizzak DM-V2 from Bridgestone for enhanced braking power and grip in snow.These have 15% more block edges to improve control on slippery surfaces. With more ground contact you are able to control your vehicle easily. Multicell compound that has hydrophilic coating gives better traction on snow and ice. 90003 90012 Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 90013 90002 90078 90003 90002 These winter tires from Michelin suit sports utility and crossover vehicles for enhanced performance. They have a limited warranty of 6 years. The cornering traction, braking power, and speeding are great due to the wide contact tread area.Whether there is ice, snow, slush or the road is dry or wet, these tires remain flexible. Precision and technology render these winter tires noiseless and durable. 90003 90006 Is It Mandatory To Use Winter Tires In Canada? 90007 90002 While not all provinces have mandatory winter tire laws, there are a few provinces that have made it the law. 90003 90012 Quebec 90013 90002 Quebec was the first province in 2008 to mandate the use of winter tires for passenger vehicles from Dec 15th to Mar 15th.This also included taxis and very much reduced collisions by 17% and injury by 36%. Studded tires may be used from Oct 15 to May 1 if you use them on both the axle ends. 90003 90012 British Columbia 90013 90002 In British Columbia, there are specific rules for using winter tires, tire chains, and studded tires. You have to use tire chains or winter tires as per law in certain areas from Oct 1st to Apr 30th every year or else you may pay a penalty. At the same time, you may also use studs on tires up to 3.5 mm only for vehicles weighing less than 4600 kg or 10000 pounds. About 30 studs per tire or total of 130 studs may be the maximum limit and you may use them not just in the front but also on rear wheels. 90003 90012 Alberta, Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, Yukon and Nunavut 90013 90002 There are no restrictions on using studded tires in the above territories and provinces and you may not incur a fine. 90003 90012 Manitoba 90013 90002 In Manitoba, you may use studded tires from Oct 1st to Apr 30th.In early 2014 року, the Manitoba Public Insurance also started a low-interest loan program for winter tires. Though not mandatory, this tire loan program has encouraged many motorists in Manitoba to use winter tires for safety in icy weather. 90003 90012 Ontario 90013 90002 You may use studded winter tires in Ontario, between Sep 1st and May 31st in the northern area only. These include Cochrane, Algoma, Kenora, Nipissing, Manitoulin, Rainy River, Sudbury, Parry Sound, Temiskaming and Thunder Bay. If you use studded winter tires in other southern areas then you may pay a fine.If you are traveling from another province then you may use studded tires for up to 1 month in Ontario. That too only lightweight studs made in Scandinavia. 90003 90012 New Brunswick 90013 90002 You may use studded winter tires in New Brunswick from Oct 15 to May 1 every year. However, the province mandated the use of winter tires only for school buses during this time. 90003 90012 Nova Scotia 90013 90002 In Nova Scotia, you may use studded winter tires from Oct 15th to May 31st. They also can not have a diameter of more than ½ an inch or be longer than ⅛ of an inch from the tire base.A total of 130 studs may be used for vehicles weighing less than 4600 kg. 90003 90012 Prince Edward Island 90013 90002 It is allowed to use studded winter tires in Prince Edward Island from Oct 1st to May 31st but is not mandatory. 90003 90012 Newfoundland 90013 90002 You may fit studded winter tires In Newfoundland, from Oct 31st to May 1st but is not required as per law. 90003 90002 In Ontario, the province mandated that all private auto insurers must give discounts to policyholders who purchase and install winter tires, effective Jan 1st, 2016.So, as soon as the temperatures drop to 7 ° Celsius you must install winter tires from Nov to April every year to avail this discount. The rate of winter tire discount may vary with each insurance company. At an average, most insurance companies offer anywhere from 2% to 5% discount for installing approved winter tires. They may not need purchase receipts but it is a good idea to keep the documents as in the event of a claim they may check that you did indeed have winter tires. 90003 90006 What Does Winter Tires Mean And How They Work 90007 90002 Winter tires are made of specific tread pattern and compound that allows for comfortable and safe winter driving.At temperatures below 7 ° C, winter tires are made to stick to asphalt to improve handling, braking, and speeding. A blend of rubber with oil, silica and other compounds prevents the winter tires from getting too brittle or hard in freezing temperatures. The glass transition temperature of winter tires makes them suitable for driving in extremely cold weather. 90003 90002 The winter tires have many small blocks to bite into icy roads and the tire grooves channel away water to avoid skidding. There are sipes in these tires that are small slits that open on road contact to give more grip.They may also have tiny holes called micro pumps alongside to pick up water with contact. These grooves are capable of picking up a thin layer of icy water to avoid hydroplaning or when the asphalt is wet. 90003 90006 Tips To Make Your Winter Tires Last Longer 90007 90002 If you have decided to invest in winter tires due to mandatory law or your own driving safety, you may check out the below tips: 90003 90134 90135 Purchase winter tires that are marked with the Alpine pictograph (peaked mountain with a snowflake) 90136 90135 Install a set of 4 matching winter tires.Do not change just the front wheel tires if your car has a front wheel drive train. 90136 90135 Try not to combine different brands of tires as they may have variable tread sizes, patterns, and grooves etc. This may not be optimum for the handling, traction, and performance in winter conditions. 90136 90135 When you notice that the tires are worn out and almost near the indicators for tread wear then replace those tires. 90136 90135 Make a habit to check the air pressure of the winter tires at least once in a month.90136 90145 90006 Can Winter Tires Be Used All Year 90007 90002 Just because you purchased winter tires does not mean that you continue to use them all the time. Winter tires are not meant to be used all year round as they have softer rubber. These tires have a tread pattern that opens so if you use them all the time then they wear out fast. Warmer temperatures do not suit winter tires due to the technology and designing. On dry warm pavements, the winter tires wear out faster and have less tread life.Moreover, in certain Canadian provinces if you use winter tires all year round then you may even pay a fine. 90003 90012 If you decide to use winter tires all through the year then beware of the following: 90013 90134 90135 Winter tires wear out rapidly in hot weather 90136 90135 You may not save but lose money 90136 90135 Face handling and traction problems often 90136 90135 Less road safety and more noise that reduces driving comfort 90136 90135 It may be dangerous to use winter tires in summer as the rubber may marble and roll under the wheels 90136 90135 Stopping short may seem a difficult task in warmer weather if you have winter tires 90136 90145 90006 When Should You Put Winter Tires On Your Car 90007 90002 When temperatures dip below 7 ° C you may consider replacing your tires with winter tires.This will give you good traction, handling, and braking in cold driving conditions. These tires perform great in snowy, icy weather and dry pavement equally well. It is vital that you install a set of 4 winter tires so that you maintain good stability and control. Your drive is safe, comfortable and confident when you have winter tires right from the start of the season until the end. Some provinces have mandated the use of winter tires specifically during winter months. So, you have no option but to replace your tires and avoid paying a heavy penalty.90003 90006 Do Winter Tires Really Make A Difference 90007 90002 Have you ever struggled to stop short of skidding while braking or cornering and cursed why ever you did not fit winter tires? Yes, it does seem like a task to most of us to fit winter tires every year. But from a safety perspective, it could make the difference between life and death. The braking, acceleration, cornering, stopping in ice, snow, and slush is safe and optimum with winter tires. Summer tires can not withstand mercury dipping below 7 degrees and start to become hard and by -10 degree they are stiff.However, even at -40 degrees, winter tires are flexible and perform great on icy roads. This is due to the compound, tread pattern, grooves amongst other features that reduce elasticity and improves sturdiness. 90003 90006 Does Winter Tires Affect Gas Mileage 90007 90002 Most winter tires could reduce the overall gas mileage. Other factors may also influence the gas mileage of your vehicle. These include speed, age, and condition, temperature, acceleration capacity, drivetrain, accessories, weather, road and traffic conditions etc.Winter tires may not always give an impressive gas mileage but certain premium quality tires may offer you some relief. The squirmier and deeper tread pattern of winter tires compared to summer or all-season tires do give less fuel mpg. Since winter tires have increased resistance during rolling, it could also reduce the fuel mileage. 90003 90006 How To Store Winter Tires 90007 90002 Once you have seen the last of the snowflakes, it is time to safely put away your winter tires; you may get another season out of them.90003 90134 90135 Clean the winter tires before storing them so that all the road gunk and grime comes off. You may use automotive soap and water to clean them to prevent damage in storage. 90136 90135 After you have cleaned and dried the winter tires you may store them in a cool, dark and dry room with no humidity. Storing them outdoors is a no-no even if you protect them with covering. 90136 90135 Ensure that the room temperatures where you store the winter tires are normal and not too hot.90136 90135 Try to avoid direct sunlight contact with the winter tires to protect the physical aspects of the tires and keep them intact. 90136 90135 Do not keep them near solvents, lubricants, fuels or other chemicals that may spill on them. 90136 90135 You may prevent cracking of winter tires by not squeezing them into tight spaces under pressure. 90136 90135 Invest in a set of large storage bags as it will shield the winter tires from ozone that may dry out the rubber compounds. For the same reason, you may also not let your winter tires make friends with any motorized device in the storage room.90136 90145 90002 90003.