Some commuters use all-season tires year-round. Winter tires (also known as snow tires) aren’t a must in the Pacific Northwest. However, making the change does make handling and maneuvering more manageable on wet and slippery roads.

Winter Tires Explained

As implied in the name, the tires are designed for winter use. The treads are deeper with larger gaps, giving them enhanced traction and the ability to wick away water more effectively.

These tires are a must-have in areas with a lot of snowfall. While winters in Washington hardly entail heavy snow, they do bring about rain spells that lead to slippery roads. The tires are comparable in price to conventional tires, and most auto services provide and install them.

The Statistics

If you’re on the fence about making the switch, here are some statistics that might help you reconsider. The data is compiled from Consumer Reports.

• Most motorists consider snow tires advantageous whether they own a front-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle.
• Commuters with snow tires on average worry less about losing control of their car.
• 67% of drivers believe winter tires are unnecessary if they have all-season tires at present. However, road tests from Consumer Reports confirm that snow tires have better gripping ability.

Can You Use Snow Tires After Winter?

Some people make the switch to snow tires and continue to use the tires long after winter. We don’t recommend this. The tires have more pliable tread rubber. This increases grip in cold weather, but it also wears out more quickly when the road surface is hot. The tires will be subjected to unnecessary wear.

We Provide and Install Snow Tires Near Covington

We have snow tires in inventory for most vehicle models. Browse our gallery to see what we do in our auto garage. Bring your car to Jones Automotive Clinic to switch to winter tires; the switch will significantly enhance road safety.

Snow Tires Installation Near Covington

Serving Customers in Tacoma, Sumner, Lake Tapps, Auburn, Federal Way, Des Moines, Gig Harbor, University Place, Fircrest and Ruston