When temperatures drop in Joliet, drivers know that winter brings more than just snow and ice. It also brings challenges for your vehicle’s tires. From slippery roads to lower winter tire pressure, knowing how cold weather affects your tires helps you stay safe and keep your vehicle performing well.
Slippery Roads and Reduced Traction
Winter conditions make the roads more hazardous, especially when snow, slush, and ice cover the pavement. Even the best traction control systems depend on your tires’ grip, and that grip weakens when temperatures drop.
Cold weather can cause rubber to harden, reducing flexibility and traction. That is why switching to winter or all-season tires is so important. Manufacturers design these tires with special rubber compounds that stay soft in low temperatures to provide better grip and control.
Check your tire pressure and tread depth before the season begins to ensure they are properly prepared for winter. Tires with worn tread can struggle to maintain traction, especially on icy or wet roads. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your tires will help ensure your Cadillac handles winter conditions with confidence and stability.
The Impact of Cold Weather on Tire Pressure
As the temperature drops, so does your tire pressure in winter. For every 10-degree decrease in temperature, your tires can lose about one pound per square inch (PSI) of pressure. A sudden cold snap can quickly lower your tire pressure, even if you filled them properly a few days earlier.
Low tire pressure in cold weather can lead to several problems, including:
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Reduced fuel efficiency because underinflated tires create more rolling resistance.
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Poor handling and slower steering response, especially on slick or uneven roads.
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Increased tire wear due to uneven contact with the road surface.
To avoid these issues, check your tire pressure at least once a month during winter or more often if the weather changes suddenly. Always measure pressure when the tires are cold and fill them to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
Keep Your Cadillac Ready for Every Season
Maintaining the right winter tire pressure helps your Cadillac perform as it should: smoothly, safely, and efficiently. If you are not sure about your tire condition or pressure, the service team at Hawk Cadillac of Joliet can help. We will check your tires, adjust your pressure, and make sure your vehicle is ready for the winter roads ahead.
Schedule a service appointment or explore our latest Cadillac models today to stay prepared and protected all season long.
