Countering Snow Tire Bias

Myths That Contribute To Snow Tire Bias

There are many myths that surround snow tires. And these myths can cause people to either not buy snow tires or have the wrong idea about what they do and what to buy. Lets clear up some of the myths that contribute to snow tire bias.

Myth #1: All-Season Tires Are Just As Good As Snow Tires

Nothing could be further from the truth. All-season tires are good, but they are not meant to use in deep snow. For people who live in areas with a lot of ice and snow, all-season tires are not going to give you the traction that you'll need to smooth handling on show and ice. This particular snow tire bias leads many people not to buy snow tires, and the effects of this decision can be disastrous.

Myth #2: If I have ABS or Traction Control I Don't Need Snow Tires

This particular snow tire bias is prevalent. ABS helps your brakes not to lock up (hence anti-lock brakes), but they do not help you stop any faster. The ability to stop well is not just in your brakes but is also highly dependent upon your tires.

Myth #3: I Only Need Two Snow Tires

Anyone who has ever gone out to buy a snow tire has encountered this snow tire bias. I don't think that most people say they only need two tires just to save money. This particular bias is more a product of habit than of any grand conspiracy to bilk the winter tire industry out of money.

The reason for this snow tire bias is the fact that most older cars used to be rear-wheel drive. And so, people put two snow tires on their non-drive wheel in order to "balance" the handling in winter. But this logic hasn't applied for many years now.

By putting only two snow tires on your car, you are in fact giving your car a split personality. Half of it will handle better that the other half. This can lead to disastrous consequences in emergency situations. Most manufacturers recommend four snow tires.  The two tire snow tire bias is probably the most common. But if you think about it, when you are buying all-season tires, do you put on a good pair of tires on two wheels then put a so-so pair on as well? Probably not. So, the same logic applies to snow tires.

This is just some of the snow tire bias out there. I hope this article can give you more information and dispels some of the myths you've heard about snow tires.

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