'Tis the Season (Tires)
August 14, 2022
We all know about winter tires. But did you know there is such a thing as summer tires?
Most people have all-season tires on their vehicles. They work pretty well in a variety of weather conditions. But if you want better handling and performance, you might consider switching to summer tires. Here are a few things you should know about them.
Summer tires are good for high-performance vehicles like sports cars and luxury SUVs, but they don't have to be limited to those. They have a different tread pattern than all-season tires, with generally shallower grooves and more rubber that contacts the road. The rubber is made of a stickier compound good for taking corners at higher speeds. Plus it is engineered so it stays firmer the hotter the temperature gets.
Here's a bonus. That design also works well in warm, wet weather. It makes sense, since more the more rubber that's touching the concrete or asphalt when it's slippery out, the better the traction.
There are some things to be aware of with summer tires. They often have asymmetrical or unidirectional tread patterns. That sometimes limits the way these tires can be rotated on a vehicle. Another thing to remember is it is NOT a good idea to use summer tires in any wintery conditions. They lose traction as the temperature heads toward the freezing range and below since that rubber that's designed to stay firm at warm temperatures gets hard as a rock when they freeze.
But in warmer weather, summer tires can increase your braking and cornering capabilities. Plus you'll notice more grip at faster speeds and higher temperatures than all-season tires. So think about discussing summer tires with your service advisor to see if they'd be a good fit for the type of driving you do. He or she will offer you some choices that are designed to meet your vehicle's specs.
Sterling Tire & Auto
34701 Van Dyke Rd
Sterling Heights, Michigan 48312
586-264-7775
Need Service?
More articles from Sterling Tire & Auto
U and your U-Joints (Lubricate U-Joints)
January 19, 2025
If your vehicles power goes to the rear wheels, then you have something called U-joints in the drivetrain. U-joints are connectors that allow the rotating power from your vehicles engine to deliver its power through a driveshaft to make the rear wheels rotate. You need U-joints because the surfa... More
When Your Tires are Tired (Tire Replacement)
January 12, 2025
Tires are so reliable these days that few drivers pay much attention to them. But tires wear out. They have a tough job since they are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road. They have to get your vehicle going from a stop, keep it going, make sure it is headed in the dire... More
Timing is Everything (Timing Cover Replacement)
January 5, 2025
Theres an important part in your vehicle that shields your timing belt, timing chain or cam belt from the debris and gunk that can be kicked up from the road. Its called the timing cover. Its important because the timing belt or chain is what coordinates parts of your engine called the camshaft... More