According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, residents of Fauquier County can expect a colder-than-usual winter in 2016. Unfortunately, if you don’t have winter tires, your vehicle’s performance will be negatively impacted once the temperature drops below 45 degrees.

Without proper traction, the chances of being involved in an accident increase drastically. Even if you consider your driving skills to be excellent, an unforeseen patch of ice on the road can cause anyone trouble.

Regardless of the type of tire you have, first and foremost you need to ensure that all four are still in good shape. How well your tires perform is entirely dependent on their remaining tread depth.

Check the Treads

By sticking a coin (such as a quarter or a penny) into the grooves of the tire at various points, you can approximate the depth of the tread. New tires usually have a tread depth around 10/32”. If George Washington’s profile (on a 25-cent piece) remains uncovered, having fully inserted the coin into the groove head down, the resulting measurement indicates there is less than 4/32” remaining. At this point, you should consider replacing the tire.

According to state law, a tire with tread depth less than 2/32” (when Lincoln’s head is entirely visible while using a penny) means it is illegal for use on licensed/registered vehicles.

When in doubt, we’ll be happy to take a look for you. We’ll rotate the tires, double- check the air pressure, and inspect your treads for any sign of visible wear.

Winter conditions in Warrenton can be unpredictable. When it comes to driving this time of year, there are two recommended options: winter tires and all-season tires.

Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires

While both kinds are designed to handle wet conditions, winter tires are superior on snow and ice. A tire specially formulated for winter driving remains more flexible in freezing temperatures and provides greater traction. Winter tires make all the difference when it comes to braking, accelerating, and overall handling in the snow.

Even if you own a four-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive vehicle, it is the quality of tire that will determine whether or not you stop in time during those slippery rides.

If you already have winter tires, it is important to make sure they are still adequate. Winter tires should be reassessed after their first few seasons of use. Additionally, once the weather warms up, don’t forget to take them off. Remember, winter tires enjoy the cool, so keep them out of the sun while in storage.

The staff at Warrenton Auto Service specializes in handling mechanical repairs, auto body fixes, and glass replacement. We’re experts in preparing your vehicle for the road. However, our work and your safety will be compromised if you do not have suitable tires for your vehicle.

Be prepared. Stay safe.

Give us a call if you any questions about the performance of your vehicle.