WINTER TIRES

For tires, winter begins at 7°C.

Below this temperature, the rubber of a summer tire hardens and becomes less effective.

WHY HAVE WINTER TIRES FITTED?

BRAKING DISTANCES

In winter, weather conditions are radically different, braking distances can be multiplied by 8 depending on the type of road selon le type de route. A winter tire offers better grip, traction and safety by reducing braking distances.

HYDROPLANING

Winter tires differ from summer tires through the chemical composition of their rubber, which has a formula that enables them to remain flexible at low temperatures for better grip on slippery surfaces (rain, snow and ice). The tread design also differs in that they have a greater number of sipes and a chunky tread pattern. Snow and ice traction is improved and there is a reduced risk of hydroplaning.

2 OR 4 WINTER TIRES?

For optimal safety, you are strongly advised to fit 4 winter tires. If you only fit 2 on the drive wheels, traction on start-up is fine, but grip is not balanced between the front and rear axle.

With the winter tires fitted on the front axle of a front-wheel drive, the vehicle may spin or skid in bends. With the tires fitted on the rear axle of a rear-wheel drive, the vehicle may fail to turn and go off the road in curves.

Important: Specific legislation exists in different countries as regards to winter tires.

Did you know?

3 basic functions for a tire: to carry, guide and transmit.

Did you know?

Over 200 raw materials into tire composition.

Did you know?

We recommend fitting 4 winter tires on your vehicle.

Did you know?

Between the rigid road and the plastic elastic rubber, two factors come into play: molecular adhesion and indentation.

Did you know?

The tire's identity card is on the sidewall.

Did you know?

Incorrect pressure causes rapid wear.

Did you know?

A tire has less than a millisecond to hold your vehicle to the road.

Did you know?

1 full tank of fuel out of 5 is consumed for passenger car tires.

Did you know?

For tires, winter begins at 7°C.

Did you know?

Michelin has been improving energy efficiency for more than 100 years.