Can All-Season Tires Be Used in Northeast China During Winter?
2 Answers
If you are in areas like Northeast China where winters are extremely cold and prone to snowfall, all-season tires should not be used. Temperature Suitability for All-Season Tires: Generally, all-season tires can be used year-round, including in winter. However, if the driver frequently encounters icy or snowy roads with temperatures below -10 degrees Celsius, it is advisable to switch to winter tires. All-Season Tires Below 7 Degrees Celsius: When temperatures drop below 7 degrees Celsius, the rubber compound of standard all-season tires undergoes changes, becoming harder, which negatively impacts traction and wear performance. Therefore, for safety reasons, switching to winter tires is essential. Compared to all-season tires, winter tires feature 15% more tread blocks to enhance grip on icy and snowy surfaces.
Last year, I conducted winter tire research in Changchun. All-season tires had a braking distance more than twice as long as winter tires in the sub-zero temperatures of Northeast China. With so many icy and snow-covered roads in the Northeast, when temperatures drop below -7°C, the rubber of all-season tires hardens like plastic, causing a sharp decline in grip. Some people think driving slowly in the city is fine, but in an emergency, a two-meter difference in stopping distance can be critical, especially on overpass ramps, which are particularly dangerous. I recommend switching to professional winter tires with the snowflake symbol—they have deeper treads and fine sipes designed to break through ice, offering a completely different level of safety.
