When you want to hit the road this summer, make sure your tires are up for the journey. Many drivers favor all-season tires throughout the year, but you can also invest in summer tires if you want improved performance during warm weather. You’ll have to remove the tires before winter sets in, but while the temperatures are favorable, you might get more mileage out of your car.
Shallow Tread
After a quick glance at a summer tire, you might mistakenly believe that the tire has been used and worn to a near-bald state. However, this is because summer tires feature extremely shallow tread. This means that you won’t have much grip if you leave the tires on your car and attempt to drive in icy or snowy conditions, which is why you must have a set of winter or all-purpose tires put on as soon as the weather turns chilly.
Shallow tread can also make driving in wet conditions more dangerous. The existing grooves will help shed water if you’re driving during a storm, and hydroplaning won’t become an issue unless the water level gets dangerously high. However, if you drive frequently in the rain, consider a different type of tire.
More Surface Contact
Manufacturers design summer tires to have as much physical contact with the road surface as possible. This can make you feel more connected to the road while you’re angling through curves or cruising down the highway. Many drivers prefer this experience, especially when they embark upon summer road trips. It’s particularly ideal for smooth, dry roads.
Firmer Ride Quality
Although summer tires have plenty of benefits, you might have to sacrifice some comfort. Because of the increased road connection and the low sidewalls, you’ll feel all the bumps and divots in the road more keenly. This could mean a little stiffness and soreness after a long road trip, depending on your tolerance level.
To maximize your experience with summer tires, invest in a newer Ford vehicle that has built-in comfort features, such as lumbar support. You’ll feel better during and after your excursions in your car because the vehicle’s features will counteract any discomfort caused by the tires. You can also buy aftermarket products, such as seat covers, to further maximize your comfort.
Ideal for Performance Cars
Although summer tires can work with just about any vehicle, they’re made specifically for performance cars. The increased agility and control lends itself to high-performing vehicles, so they make a reasonable choice if you drive a Taurus, Mustang, or similar vehicle.
You can also outfit your performance car with performance parts. Look for specials on car parts to snag a great deal while getting the most out of your vehicle. Make sure to follow the Ford-recommended service plan so your car remains in tip-top shape for your road adventures.
Elevated Cost
While summer cars can boost performance, they also come at a cost. You’ll pay more for these tires than you would for the winter or all-weather variety, which means digging a little deeper into your finances. If you enjoy getting the best performance out of your vehicle and showing off your car’s abilities on the road, the extra costs might be worth the benefits you gain from summer tires.
Connect with us
