How Extreme Cold Weather Affects Your Car or Truck Tires and How to Maintain Them
Winter is here as an artic blast is headed our way. So, there is dangerous cold ahead for Hampton Roads. And this icy grip can take a toll on your car or truck tires in ways Hampton drivers may not realize. So, in this blog the experts at Meineke in Hampton examine how extreme cold weather affects your vehicle’s tires and the steps you can take to maintain them. Because proper tire care is crucial for safe driving during the season.
How Extreme Cold Weather Impacts Tires
- Tire Pressure Drops
Cold temperatures cause the air inside your tires to contract. And this leads to a drop in tire pressure. For example for every 10°F decrease in temperature, your tire pressure can drop by about 1 PSI. And underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency, compromise handling, and increase wear. - Reduced Traction
Summer or all-season tires may stiffen in freezing temperatures. And this reduces their ability to grip icy or snowy roads. Whereas, winter tires, made with special rubber compounds, are better equipped to handle these conditions. - Risk of Cracking
Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can cause older or damaged tires to develop cracks, especially if the rubber is already weakened.
How to Maintain Your Tires During Winter
- Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to monitor your tire pressure at least once a week and before long trips. And inflate them to the manufacturer-recommended PSI listed in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. - Switch to Winter Tires
Winter tires are specifically designed for cold weather. Because they offer improved traction on icy or snowy roads. So, as we live in an area prone to harsh winters, they are a worthwhile investment. And your local Meineke on West Mercury Blvd. in Hampton offers winter tires that fit both the needs of your vehicle and your wallet. - Inspect Tread Depth
Adequate tread depth is crucial for safe winter driving. So, use the “penny test” to ensure your tread depth is at least 2/32 of an inch, or better yet, aim for 4/32 inches in winter conditions. - Avoid Rapid Starts and Stops
Sudden braking or accelerating can increase tire wear and reduce traction on slippery roads. So, drive smoothly to prolong the life of your tires.
Signs Your Tires Have a Problem
- Visible Cracks or Bulges
These could indicate that the tire’s structure is compromised and may lead to a blowout. - Uneven Tread Wear
This can result from misalignment or underinflation and should be addressed promptly. - Persistent Loss of Pressure
If a tire keeps losing air even after adjusting the pressure, there could be a puncture or valve issue. - Poor Traction
If your vehicle feels slippery or takes longer to stop, your tires may be worn or unsuitable for winter conditions. - TPMS Warning Light
Most modern vehicles come with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). And when this sensor identifies improper tire pressure in your tires, it lights up a warning light on your dashboard. So look for a horseshow symbol with an exclamation point. And if you see this light up, call Meineke in Hampton. Because they can the cause of tire pressure issues.
Protect Your Tires From Hampton’s Extreme Cold Weather
By staying proactive with tire maintenance, you’ll ensure a safer, smoother drive this winter. Because regular checks and the right tires can make all the difference when temperatures plunge. If you are concerned with the extreme weather’s affect on your car or truck tires, reach out to Meineke in Hampton.
If the Meineke in Hampton is not convenient, check out these other locally-owned Meineke locations in Virginia:
- Meineke Virginia Beach #197
6399 Indian River Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23464-3500
Call (844) 768-6004 - Meineke Virginia Beach #312
1837 Laskin Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23454-4504
Call (833) 696-8494 - Meineke Virginia Beach #2739
1321 Diamond Springs Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Call (757) 687-0566 - Meineke Virginia Beach #2883
3700 Holland Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Call (757) 932-2952 - Meineke Charlottesville #342
1906 Emmet Street
Charlottesville, VA 22901-2815
Call (855) 747-2083 - Meineke Hampton #584
79 West Mercury Boulevard
Hampton, VA 23669-2508
Call (757) 690-7689 - Meineke Yorktown #851
4609 George Washington Memorial Highway
Yorktown, VA 23692-2766
Call (757) 847-9155 - Meineke Williamsburg #938
399 Second Street
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Call (757) 585-4492 - Meineke Denbigh #1088
415 Oriana Road
Newport News, VA 23608
Call (757) 814-2724 - Meineke Richmond #2514
5271 S. Laburnum Avenue
Richmond, VA 23231
Call (804) 222-2862
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