Winter Tires and Driving Tips

Winter Tires

North American tire manufacturers and the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) established a voluntary, industry-wide definition for passenger and light truck tires intended for use in SEVERE SNOW CONDITIONS. Tires must meet a performance- based criteria feature tread pattern, construction elements, and materials which generally provide snow performance superior to that of tires bearing the RMA's current M&S Rating. It is RMA Severe Snow Conditions-Rated.

This new standard is intended to complement the current M&S rating and make it easier for consumers to distinguish all-season M&S rated tires from those specifically designed for SEVERE SNOW CONDITIONS. Tires that meet this new standard will now carry both the M&S-rated marking and the accompanying mountain/snowflake pictograph (shown below).

Important Winter Tire Safety Information:

Snow tires must be mounted only in sets of four (4) because they have a higher level of snow traction compared to M&S or unmarked tires. It is necessary to maintain the handling balance of the vehicle both in the snow and ice conditions, as well as dry pavement. On front wheel drive vehicles if high traction snow tires are on the front and lower traction tires are mounted on the rear, the rear of the vehicle can lose traction during cornering or braking on snow or ice, leading to spin outs. Snow tires on all wheel positions will provide the most effective and safest winter driving.

• Never mix radial snow tires with tires of other construction, size, ply rating, performance rating or pattern type
  
• Always match the performance ratings of the original tires or follow vehicles Owner's Manual snow tire replacement instructions

Safe Winter Driving Tips

• Slow Down! Drive according to the road and weather conditions
  
• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights - even the hood and roof - before driving
  
• Leave plenty of time and room for stopping and brake early
  
• Know current road conditions
• View weather and traffic reports
• Watch electronic signs for updated road information
• Watch for icy surfaces
• Look farther ahead in traffic. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems an give you extra time to react
• Don't use cruise control or overdrive when it is freezing (or colder)
• Don't be overconfident with four- wheel drive. It helps you go faster, but does not help you stop any faster
• Don't pump antilock brakes. The right way is to "stomp and steer"
• Know your vehicle. Read the owner's manual
• Slow down at the first sign of rain, sleet or snow and always drive with your headlights on
  

If at all possible, avoid driving when the roads are icy or slick.