Top 6 myths and misconceptions about tires

Knowledge of operating principles and selection recommendations regarding tyres ensures road safety. But there are so many myths and misconceptions about it! Some say winter tyres should be studded, others argue that one can drive with all-season tyres all year round, while others recommend inflating tyres to the pressure level indicated on the sidewall. Find out, below, if these are myths and what other misconceptions are widespread.

Myth 1: Studded Tyres are The Best Winter Tyres 

This myth has long been dispelled, as it is known that the studs on the tyres are necessary to provide traction with ice-covered road surface. Such tyres are more popular in regions with severe climate. But on asphalt without snow and ice, the studs are not only useless, but even have a negative effect on the road surface.

In this regard, studded tyres are prohibited in some European countries. As a rule, a ban is imposed in regions with mild climate without heavy rainfall or where roads are regularly sprinkled with reagents. Therefore, choosing only studded tyres is a mistake. It is necessary to take into account the particular climate of the region in question.

When choosing studded tyres, one should not worry about studs falling out when driving on the asphalt. The main thing is to avoid starting with slipping, otherwise the whole car could be damaged, and not just the tyres.

Myth 2: All-season Tyres can be Used All Year Round

All-season tyres are something in-between summer and winter tyres. They are created to have the basic properties of both to the highest degree possible. They have a special rubber compound that provides grip on both wet and snow-covered road.

But all-season tyres are not designed to be used year-round, as they do not fully meet the requirements to summer and winter tyres. It is impossible to combine opposite properties of different tyres. Therefore, it is recommended to use all-season tyres in conditions of mild winter, when the temperature often varies from a small minus to zero and plus, and the road is either wet or covered with slush.

Myth 3: The Right Tyre Inflation Pressure is Indicated on the Sidewall

There is indeed the pressure marking on the sidewall. But it is the maximum value provided by the manufacturer. To maintain normal tyre pressure, follow recommendations of the manufacturer.

Myth 4: Winter Tyres Only on the Front Axle would be Enough

This myth is connected with a desire to save money. But such a misconception is dangerous. Different tread on the back and front leads to uneven grip of tyres. It affects handling and braking, resulting in drifts and increased risk of accidents, especially at high speed. There is no use saving on tyres for that.

Myth 5: Tyres in Stock do not Deteriorate

They certainly do. Rubber ages over time. Even if the appearance of the tyre is not changed at all, this does not mean that the rubber has not “aged”. In this case, its properties deteriorate. Important factor is as well proper storage conditions, since there are special storage guidelines for tyres.

Taking into account rubber ageing, manufacturers recommend strictly observing the service life of tyres. If they are not used during the storage period, they must be disposed of. This also applies to the spare tyre. The driver may never use it, but as soon as its service life expires, the tyres shall be replaced with the new ones.

Myth 6: Wide Tyres have Better Grip on Snow-Covered Roads

Any belief that wide tyres have better grip on the road is a myth. The tread is made narrower to increase pressure on the snow and “get to the bottom” of the road surface through snow.