Should I Change to Snow Tires in the First Year of a New Car?
3 Answers
Whether to change to snow tires in the first year of a new car depends on the driving environment. If you frequently drive in snowy or mountainous areas, it is necessary to switch to snow tires, as this significantly enhances the safety of the vehicle. As winter temperatures drop, tire rubber hardens. Winter tires use a special rubber compound that maintains elasticity in low temperatures. Winter tires are designed exclusively for winter use and provide better traction on snow and ice compared to summer tires. Based on their anti-skid performance, winter tires are categorized into three types: serrated surface tires, snow tires, and studded tires. Compared to regular tires, snow tires feature a special compound that increases friction with snowy and icy surfaces, offering improved maneuverability and safety in such conditions.
I just bought a new car and am also considering whether to get snow tires in the first year. The key benefit of snow tires lies in winter safety—they have a softer rubber compound than the standard tires that come with new cars, providing much better grip in low temperatures. This is especially effective on icy and snowy surfaces, reducing skidding and shortening braking distances. Where I live, winters bring heavy snowfall, and road accidents are common, often caused by mismatched tires. Although the all-season tires that come with new cars are brand new, they are designed for year-round use and their performance suffers in extreme cold, increasing the risk of losing control. I’ve checked expert resources and learned that snow tires truly shine when temperatures drop below 7°C. They also help protect the new car’s tires from excessive wear, extending their overall lifespan. My advice is to consider your local weather conditions and prepare the tires in advance—don’t wait until the first snowfall to scramble. Don’t skimp on safety; after switching, I’ve felt much more stable driving, and it gives me peace of mind.
Should I change to winter tires in the first year? I think it's a matter of cost-effectiveness. The tires that come with a new car are usually durable, and with minimal wear in the first year, continuing to use them can save you some expenses. Winter tires aren't cheap—changing a set along with rims can cost at least a few thousand yuan. If you live in the south where it doesn't snow, you can save that money. But if you frequently drive in mountainous areas or the north where roads are slippery in winter, winter tires provide better traction and reduce accidents, potentially saving more on repair costs or insurance claims. I've experienced minor skids and scratches in winter where the repair costs were higher than buying new tires. When servicing your new car, ask the technician for advice—they can test your tires' winter suitability. Generally, it's recommended to change to winter tires in the first year in snowy areas, as the long-term return on investment is higher. Also, remember to store the tires properly after changing them, otherwise, leaving them unused is a waste.
