Car Tips and Tricks
Let's simplify winter tyres. Ready?
Winter is the favorite season of cold and slippery roads. Driving in this season is a challenge, so at Xtracars, we want to make sure you're prepared for any conditions. One of the best ways to ensure your safety and that of other passengers is by using suitable tyres, winter tyres. Ready to learn more about snow tyres? Buckle up, let's go.
When and why you should use winter tyres
Switching to winter tyres is advisable as soon as temperatures start to drop below 7°C. It is at this time that normal tyres begin to lose their effectiveness, hardening and reducing their grip on the road. By changing in advance, guarantee you are prepared for the first frost, avoiding unpleasant surprises. Even if driving on roads without snow, cold roads can be treacherous due to the presence of ice and water. And it is even in these conditions that winter tyres stand out.
In addition to these advantages, by using tyres suitable for the season of the year you are extending the life of common tyres, avoiding premature wear caused by low temperatures. As soon as the temperatures start to drop, change your tyres, don't wait for bad weather. Your safety and those who circulate with you deserve all the attention.
After all, what distinguishes winter tyres from regular tyres?
Winter tyres, as the name implies, are exclusively designed for the colder seasons where you need superior grip. Do you know what differentiates them from regular tyres? You'll find out:
- Rubber composition – unlike normal tyres that harden and lose grip, the rubber in winter tyres remains resistant to low temperatures.
- Sips (grooves in the tread) – these tyres have more sipes so that traction can be increased on slippery surfaces.
- Tread design – and the design of these tyres is deeper, which allows for better evacuation of water and snow, reducing the risk of aquaplaning.
Benefits of winter tyres
Weather-appropriate tyres can make the difference between a safe journey and a dangerous situation. Performing best in temperatures below 7°C, snow tyres are key to ensuring that you and your passengers travel safely throughout the winter.
- Increased grip - they provide greater traction on roads covered in ice or snow, allowing for safer braking and the car to stop quickly.
- Greater control – improve vehicle handling and stability, reducing the risk of skidding.
Is it mandatory to use snow tyres in Portugal?
In some countries of the European Union, it is mandatory to use snow tyres, in Portugal, it is not. However, if you live in a region where the winter is harsh and the outside temperature is below 7°C, you already know what you should do. Although it is not mandatory, you must bear in mind that in the presence of a vertical D9 sign, the car can only circulate if it has snow chains on two drive wheels.
There's more to live for than summer
An adventure in winter? It's a big yes! Sign up for one of our cars to hire and go wherever it takes you! Now with Xtracars' tips, whatever your destination, you will be safer. And if you want to add even more protection, it's with the Glass and Wheel Protection. The broken windows and the damage to the wheels are for us, you enjoy it.
