In Canada, we can count on Old Man Winter to make his presence felt each and every year. That forces us all to cope with the hard, cold realities of winter driving. While many people now drive SUVs and other kinds of rugged four-wheel drive vehicles to gain added traction, another much more cost-effective alternative is far too often overlooked: purchasing a set of dedicated winter tires.
We’ve become accustomed to the idea of using a single set of all-season tires all year round. But does the widespread use of all-season tires eliminate the necessity for specific winter-only tires? Not if you live in a part of this country where sleet, ice, snow and slush are a regular feature on the roads you drive.

What’s the difference between single-purpose winter tires and all-season tires?
The major difference between winter tires and all-season tires is the tread design. Winter tires have deeper grooves to help expel water, snow and slush from the tread. The tread pattern itself is also more pronounced, providing added bite and increased traction. The other difference lies in the compounds used to build the tires. Winter tires are softer for increased grip in cold weather. So how do you determine whether winter tires are needed for your vehicle? First, assess how much driving you do in the types of conditions where winter tires would provide added traction. Another variable is your type of vehicle and the design of its tires. Certain tire configurations and vehicle combinations perform quite adequately with all-season tires. The real test is experience. You know the way your vehicle handles in bad winter-driving conditions. Don’t underestimate the benefit of winter tires in improving your traction - and your safety. And, if you aren’t sure, ask your ACDelco Automotive Repair Specialist. They can help you determine if your vehicle would benefit from winter tires and which winter tires are best for your vehicle.