When autumn leaves start to fall, it’s time to think about preparing your car for winter driving. Ensuring your tires are ready to handle snow, sleet, and ice is critical to winter vehicle maintenance as well as the safety of your passengers.  Here’s what you should be doing to get ready.

How to Drive Safer This Winter

1. Get Winter Tires

The best way to prepare for winter motoring is putting on new or high-quality used winter tires. They’re constructed with special treads and rubber that vastly improve grip under harsh conditions when regular, all-season tires are sure to slip. While you’re at it, don’t forget to replace your spare tire with a winter tire, too.

2. Inspect Your Treads

If you’re not putting on new winter tires, check your treads as part of winter vehicle maintenance. Treads are the zig-zagging grooves that run the circumference of your tire. To maintain maximum traction, they should be fresh and deep to channel out water and snow. Some tires have tread-wear indicators to show you.

Otherwise, simply insert a penny into the groove. Make sure Lincoln’s head faces downward. If you still see his entire head, it’s time to replace the tire. While you’re at it, remember to have your tires rotated regularly to prevent uneven wear.

3. Check Tire Pressure

Proper tire pressure is critical for safe winter driving. Cold weather causes air within the tube to contract, lowering tire pressure. As it drops, driving performance becomes compromised with unpredictable skids and hydroplanes. Check your tire pressure with a gauge at least once a week during winter against the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Whether you’re preparing for winter or looking for new all-season tires, the experts at Hillis 66 in Lincoln, NE, offer a wide selection of quality new and used tires at great prices. Their ASE-certified technicians are also available to handle vehicle maintenance needs from brake fixes to transmission repairs and more. Call (402) 474-2891 to schedule service or find out more about their offerings by visiting their website.