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TIPS FOR COLD-WEATHER DRIVING

By The Editors Of consumer Reports® 4 min read

If you frequently drive on snow-covered roads, there is no substitute for winter tires, according to Consumer Reports. They have a more aggressive tread pattern and rubber formulated to stay pliable in freezing temperatures. That means they provide the most traction for accelerating and braking on snow and even ice.

The trade-off often is reduced grip and lower handling limits on cleared roads compared with all-season tires. Snow tires also tend to wear out faster, especially once the snow thaws.

For peace of mind when driving in winter conditions, you’ll want to budget for four winter tires. Purchasing a second set of sturdy wheels — nothing fancy; after all, it’s winter — on which to mount your winter tires will make it easy to change galoshes when the seasons change.

Consumer Reports’ top-rated winter tire, with excellent snow traction and ice braking, and a comfortable, quiet ride, is the Michelin X-Ice X13, $120 (price reflects tested size.)

WHEN TO CHOOSE ALL-SEASON TIRES

For occasional snow with light accumulation, all-season tires may be all you need — especially if your car has front- or all-wheel drive. But if the tires are worn, traction will be greatly reduced in snow. An easy way to check for wear is to slide a quarter into the tread, with George’s head down and facing you. If you can see the top of his head, start shopping for tires.

You will notice “speed ratings” on these tires that are far faster than any law-abiding citizen drives in America — never mind in the snow. A higher speed rating means better grip and handling, but sometimes at the cost of a shorter tread life.

DRIVING TIPS FOR SNOW AND SLUSH

Consumer Reports offers these safety tips:

n Clear off snow and ice. Take the time to thoroughly scrape the windows and brush snow off your entire car, including the roof. It’s not just a courtesy; it’s the law in some states. Visibility is critical, and flying chunks of snow and ice pose a danger. Think of those driving behind you. Imagine seeing a sheet of snow coming off the car ahead.

n Accelerate slowly. When starting out on slippery roads, go easy on the gas to avoid wheel spin. Some cars have traction control or a winter mode that helps. If you have an automatic transmission that allows second-gear starts, select that gear for better traction.

n Go smooth and easy. Reduce your speed to lessen the likelihood of a skid. Avoid any sudden inputs to the steering, throttle or brakes. Use lower gears when decelerating, to allow the engine to slow the car. Envision driving with an open cup of hot coffee in your lap.

n Give yourself some space. On a dry road, allow 2 or 3 seconds of stopping distance between your car and the one ahead. In slick conditions, increase that interval to 4 seconds or more, depending on the ugliness outside.

n Don’t pump the brakes. Unless you’re driving an older car without antilock brakes, in an emergency use steady pressure and let your car’s antilock brakes do the work. Almost every modern car has ABS, but check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic if you’re not sure. In some very icy conditions, even ABS may not help; you’re along for the ride until you regain traction.

n All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive don’t make you invincible. All- and four-wheel-drive systems provide extra traction while accelerating, but Consumer Reports notes that they can’t help much with stopping and turning. That’s the job of the winter tires you should have bought.

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