There are a variety of reasons that tires may need to be replaced. Some of the more common reasons include:

• Tires have developed weather cracking: This occurs over time from exposure to sunlight and other elements. Check in-between the treads and on the sidewall of your tires periodically to look for signs of weather cracking.
• Tires have developed flat spots: This can occur from vehicles sitting for an extended periods of time or by aggressive braking or acceleration.
• Treads are worn out: Tread-life is important for traction in all conditions.
• Tire has been patched more than once or twice: If you pick up a nail or other road hazard, tires can be plugged or patched to get you going but this type of repair is a temporary fix and replacement should be considered when possible.

If you are experiencing vibration or wobbling at high speeds, this could be a sign that you have one or more wheel that needs to be balanced.

The primary difference between a winter tire and an all-season tire is the rubber compound. Winter tires use a softer rubber compound to allow them to maintain their grip in below freezing temperatures. On the contrary, all-season tires harder rubber compound becomes too hard in cold temperatures causing them to lose their grip effectiveness. Think of it as sliding a hockey puck across a sheet of ice, opposed to sliding a sponge puck along that same ice in frozen temperatures.

Small to medium sized holes in a tire tread can be fixed at low cost. Generally a hole is plugged or patched with a compound that seals the hole and mimics the rubber itself. If you find yourself with a flat tire pay attention to the tips below:

1. If your tire is flat or having trouble  keeping air at a rapid rate, do not drive on it. Driving on a very low tire will comprimise the sidewall of the tire and will make the tire irreparable (ie. you will have to buy a new tire)
2. If your tire is slowly losing air or you are close to a location where you can fill the tire. Drive it down and it can be repaired with a plug or patch.

Yes, winter tires are important for navigating the slippery and snowy Manitoba roads, especially on vehicles without 4 wheel drive. Winter tires make a significant difference in stopping power and control in temperatures below 5 Celsius. Consider getting studded winter tires for even more traction when stopping or accelerating in icy conditions. Be sure to only use studded tires between October 15^th and May 31^st as studs are only permitted during that period.