Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Tire Tread Depth - Part worn can be too little

While most owners that come to our dealership, probably won't have to drive in deep snow and ice-covered roads on a daily basis, these two are the most challenging conditions to drive on.


Acura MDX
I
n regards to All-Season, Summer, and Winter type tires, technology have come a long way in the past decade. Tires have gained more traction, reduced road noise, more comfort and durability. However, the basics of traction and handling in snow and ice has not changed.

A tire must have have three fundamental qualities to work in winter conditions. These are an appropriate tread design, pliable tread compound that does not harden in the cold, and sufficient tread depth. With the advances in computer aided designed tread designs and modern rubber chemistry two of the three are usually not up for concern.

Since most Northern California drivers only replace tires when they are worn, which is when the tread depth reach 2/32nd" (or about 1.6mm) It is the tread depth that is often overlooked. Without sufficient tread depth, the tire's traction on snow would be reduced since tires require more depth to compress snow in the grooves to take a "bite"

Ask any of our Service Consultant for tire safety check

At Acura of Pleasanton, your safety is our top priority and we recommend tire replacement based on the expected road conditions. Our Service Consultants may ask questions such as what kind of road conditions that your Acura may see. So even though the tires on your vehicle may appear to have plenty of tread depth, it would not be unusual for us to recommend tire replacement on tires that have 4/32nd" during rainy months and 6/32nd" if driven in snow or icy roads.

Another option some owners who plan to frequent snow or ice covered roads is to purchase a second set of wheels and tires designed for winter use. Be sure to ask our Service Consultant for their recommendation during your visit.

Visit www.acuraofpleasanton.com for our latest Winter service coupons.

ref: Tire Rack Winter Tire article