Lassa issues winter driving tips
As what is traditionally known as winter season in Western Europe draws to a close after an unusually mild season, Turkish tyre brand Lassa has issued a series of winter tyre selection tips. As the industry well knows, winter tyres feature a combination of elements designed to equip them for the cold season. Here’s what Lassa is communicating to consumers when it comes to choosing winter rubber:
How many tyres and how to use them? To get the most benefits from winter tyres, full sets are best. Mixing winter tyres and all season tyres, and even winter tyres with different tread, size and construction will affect the vehicle handling. The condition of the tyres is important. Worn or damaged tyres can hamper drivers’ ability to drive safely. All tyres have tread wear indicators. When the tyre has reached its wear limit, it must be replaced as no longer provides sufficient traction in the rain or snow.
It is also recommended to check tyre pressures once a month as tyre pressure decreases as temperatures drop.
What about studs? Tests indicate that studded tyres are most effective on wet ice when the temperature is near zero, but don’t outperform regular winter tyres in other winter conditions.
Do 4×4 cars also need winter tyres? Although 4×4’s in general have better traction, they are no better than other cars in braking and turns on icy surfaces.
Are all winter tyres the same? The winter tyre choice can change according to the climatic characteristics and road conditions of the region where the car is used. In addition, the main thing that sets winter tyres apart is the technological experience beneath the structural features.
How about chains? Despite being helping in emergencies, chains have disadvantages and difficulties: Using chains in winter conditions causes damage to the tyre and mechanical parts of the car. So, they should be used only when it’s vital and for the shortest time possible. In case of extreme frost (i.e. clear ice), it’s advantageous to use these on steep, sloping and crooked ridgeways and in similar situations. It’s not necessary to use chains apart from that and in situations making up the most of winter use. Chains may break up if there is no snow/ice layer thick enough underneath, and might cause damage to the tyre and mechanical parts of the car.
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