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Stop Spinning In Circles: How To Get Traction On Your Truck

22 January 2015

Cody Wade

Driving during these winter months can be pretty brutal, even if you drive a large, 4-wheel drive vehicle. However, one change will make a lot of difference (possibly save you from getting stuck in the snow or causing an accident), and that is the type of tires you use. Here are some tire tips to see you through the year (and help prevent winter tow or repair services).

Take Care of Your Tires

You can prolong the life of your tires by having regular rotations. Tire rotations help them wear evenly, instead of in only one spot. This means they last longer and save you money. A simple way to remember to rotate your tires is to do it every time you get an oil change. However, your owner's manual will tell you specifically when your tires should be rotated.

Use the Right Type of Tires

When it comes to tires, you have many options. When it comes to winter driving, you have even more decisions to make. You can stick with your regular tires, purchase studded snow tires, or use stud-less snow tires. Here's a quick overview to help you know which is best for you:

• Regular/All-Weather Tires: Regular tires are fine if you live in a part of the country with mild winters and do the bulk of your driving in town. Since your truck is 4-wheel capable, you automatically get some added traction benefits. Remember that you still need to watch out for black ice and other drivers, though. Take it slowly on blustery days!
• Studded Snow Tires: If you use your truck to haul sledding or skiing equipment through mountainous areas, studded snow tires are the way to go. They help prevent loss of traction in icy, windy areas. They also make it easier to start and stop your vehicle on ice.
• Stud-Less Snow Tires: Stud-less snow tires are great if you need a little extra something to keep you from fishtailing. If you do a lot of traveling or have a long commute, this softer snow tire helps you travel at freeway speeds without losing contact with the road.

If you rotate your tires regularly and use a different set during winter, your tires will last longer than if you use the same set year-round and neglect a tire rotation. Studies have shown that one set of tires will last 2-3 years while changing a summer set for a winter one gives you nearly twice the life for each one. So, depending on where you live and what you use your truck for, consider driving with winter tires this season. Contact a company like Dsuban Spring for more information.

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