Do Pickup Trucks Need Winter Tires? Essential Winter Safety

While it may be tempting to keep extra accessories to a minimum for some, winter tires are not something you’d want to skip out on or rid yourself of when downsizing. Do pickup trucks need winter tires? In a word, yes. A good set of tires made for safety on icy and snowy roads are essential.

Join us at Shaw Chevrolet GMC Buick to learn why winter tires are important, how they differ from all-season tires, and offer tips for winter driving with your pickup truck. From the broad Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD to the light GMC Canyon, your truck’s winter driving outlook is much safer with the right tires.

Quick Facts on Winter Tires for Chevy and GMC Trucks

• Half-ton pickup trucks like the Silverado 1500 or Sierra 1500 stopped 8% shorter in tests with winter tires. They also facilitate 13% faster acceleration.
• At 7°C or lower, all-season tires become stiff and unyielding; winter tires become more effective as the temperature drops below 7°C
• You’ll want winter tires with M + S markings, meaning snow and mud for maximum safety.
• Shaw Chevrolet GMC Buick has winter tires for your pickup from the Firestone, General Tire, Goodyear, Hankook, and Michelin brands.
• Full-depth tread on winter tires for your pickup is 10/32 to 11/32 inches.
• The Toonie test indicates when to replace winter tires; your tread depth is optimal if the silver outer ring fits into the depth of the tread.

Understanding the Importance of Winter Tires for Pickup Trucks

Have you ever questioned why specialists emphasize the need for winter tires on pickup trucks? It’s simple: they improve stopping distance first and foremost. Half-ton pickup trucks like the Silverado or Sierra 1500 stopped 8% shorter in tests with winter tires. They also facilitate 13% faster acceleration.

Due to their substantial build and potent engines, pickup trucks require additional care when traversing slick winter roads. Pickup truck owners should be aware that their vehicles are more prone to losing traction, and without winter tires, they lose some of their steadfast reliability.

Pickup trucks have a natural advantage over SUVs and other vehicles due to their ground clearance, making good traction important for unploughed roads; don’t let that natural advantage go to waste by losing grip on the snow-packed road.

Enhanced Traction in Snowy Conditions

As the snow starts falling, the question isn’t just whether your truck can handle the deep snow, but how well it can handle it. The answer lies in the treads of your winter tires. Engineered with deeper patterns and flexible rubber, these tires dig into snow better.

The full-depth tread (10/32 to 11/32 inches on new winter tires) of a proper winter tire gives your light or heavy-duty truck the optimal grip it needs to disperse snow and maintain better traction on slippery surfaces.

However, the tire’s design isn’t the sole contributor to effective traction. Adding a bit of extra weight over the rear wheels of your truck enhances the tire’s grip on the road, making for a safer and more controlled ride.

Improved Handling on Icy Roads

When we talk about icy conditions, we’re not just talking about a light frost. We mean those mornings when your driveway looks like an ice rink. This is where the magic of winter tires shines through.

Their softer rubber compounds ensure that no matter how cold it gets, your tires remain supple enough to conform to the contours of the icy pavement, providing that much-needed traction. Our trusted brands offer the best for GMC or Chevy pickups:

• Firestone
• General Tire
• Goodyear
• Hankook
• Michelin

Differences Between Winter Tires and All-Season Tires

Let’s address an old and reoccurring debate: winter tires or all-season tires? At first glance, they might not seem all that different—and all-season does mean ALL seasons doesn’t it? Calgary’s winters, however, are not like all the other seasons, as our customers well know.

Winter tires feature deeper treads specifically designed to bite into snow and slush, giving you that superior edge in brake control and traction that all-season tires just can’t match when the temperature plummets.

While all-season tires may seem like the convenient year-round option, they fall short in the winter months. Their harder rubber compounds are no match for the softer, more pliable rubber of winter tires, which remain flexible even at the freezing point, ensuring consistent performance and grip. Therefore, selecting the appropriate tire for winter isn’t merely a matter of preference, but a matter of performance.

Tread Design and Rubber Composition

Let’s examine the structure of a winter tire in more detail. The tread design isn’t just for show; it’s a complex pattern of “bite,” sharp edges, and deep grooves that work together to channel away water and slush, significantly reducing the risk of hydroplaning on wet surfaces.

This design, coupled with more appropriate rubber composition is what keeps your truck steady and sure-footed in conditions that would have other vehicles slipping and sliding.

Performance in Colder Temperatures

As the temperature drops and hovers between -20°C to 0°C during the winter season, the performance and reliability of all-season tires trends down. They tend to harden, becoming less effective and compromising your grip on the road.

The critical factor isn’t merely the cold temperatures, but how your tires react to cold weather. Once the thermometer reads 7°C or lower, all-season tires become stiff and unyielding. In contrast, winter tires for trucks are designed to remain flexible (for heavy trucks and pickups alike), providing better handling and stability on icy pavements, which is essential for safe winter driving.

When to Install Winter Tires on Your Pickup Truck

Some might be tempted to wait until the first snowfall, but that’s a gamble that could leave you stranded or worse. A proactive attitude rather than kneejerk reaction is the best way forward; our service advisors, and other experts in the area, recommend outfitting your pickup truck with winter tires before winter conditions fully arrive.

Furthermore, depending on where you’re going, it may be more than just a suggestion. Winter tires are mandatory for trucks on BC highways, including Highway 1, from October 1 to April 30. Many of our customers here at the Shaw Dealership have family out west or go on ski trips in BC, so you’ll want winter tires to avoid a ticket as well as for safety.

Temperature Guidelines

Temperature significantly impacts tire performance. It’s not just about the cold; it’s about how consistently cold it gets. When the mercury lingers below 7°C, that’s your cue to roll out those winter tires—not just for your tires’ sake but also for safety and performance.

If you’re still driving on all-season tires or worse, summer tires, you might find yourself dealing with reduced traction and increased rolling resistance, which is a recipe for precarious driving conditions.

Seasonal Considerations

However, it’s not only the temperature that matters; timing is equally important. Prepare your pickup truck for winter’s arrival by checking and installing winter tires before the season starts to bite. Avoiding the last-minute rush and potential hazards of Calgary roads is a good idea between early October and early November.

Just as you might swap out your wardrobe for warmer clothes, your truck needs its seasonal gear too. By switching to winter tires before the first snowflake falls, you ensure your truck is ready to tackle whatever winter throws its way with the best performance and safety possible.

How to Maintain and Replace Winter Tires

If you’ve taken the step to equip your pickup truck with winter tires, you’re already on the right path. To keep your winter tires in tip-top shape, it’s best to be vigilant about keeping tire pressure up and know when it’s time to say goodbye to your summer treads.

Cracks around the tread and sidewall are tell-tale signs that your winter tires are past due for a replacement. And it’s not just about cosmetic appearance; uneven wear and tear or damage can compromise the effectiveness of the tires, putting you at risk on the road. Regular service checks are the best way to ensure your winter tires stay in peak condition for as long as possible.

Checking Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is an easy part of tire maintenance that it pays to keep up. When the days are getting short, and the temperatures drop, so does your tire pressure, making regular monitoring an important part of your winter routine.

Having a tire inflator or air compressor handy can save you a lot of headaches, ensuring your tires have the right amount of air for the best performance out there. Check the tire pressure info on your door frame to find out what our OEMs Chevrolet, GMC, and Buick recommend for tire pressure year-round; or ask our service experts to check at your next service.

Inspecting Tread Wear

A toonie can serve the same purpose; a handy but informal diagnostic called the toonie test is something many of our customers in Calgary do when they’re unsure about their winter tires.

If the tread only reaches the letters, then it’s time for a replacement. Regular inspections of the tread depth will ensure your tires maintain the necessary grip and safety on those snowy roads.

Alternatives to Winter Tires: Chains and Cables

Occasionally, even top-notch winter tires might require some assistance, particularly under severe conditions. Snow chains and cables can help increase your traction, where winter tires might need just a little more help on the road.

Heavy duty trucks 11,794 kg LGVW and greater legally require steel chains, but your pickup truck can do with consumer-grade synthetic chains. Although winter tires serve as your main shield against winter challenges, chains, and cables can provide the extra support needed in demanding conditions.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Chains

Snow chains are the go-to for people who drive winter roads a lot. They excel in extreme conditions, like those mountainous terrains that challenge even the most seasoned drivers. Easy to transport and compatible with almost any tire, chains are a reliable ally for your winter travels.

However, snow chains come with some warning labels. They should be removed when not driving on deep snow to avoid damaging the roads, and there’s a speed limit to adhere to—usually around 56 km/h—to prevent loss of control and likely tire damage—not to mention chain damage.

Using Cables for Extra Traction

For those who encounter severe winter conditions less frequently, snow cables could be the solution. They’re less aggressive than chains but still offer a boost in traction for those occasional emergency situations.

Think of cables as the quick fix for a sudden winter surprise. They’re compact, easy to store, and can give you just the edge you need when winter driving conditions have reached their absolute worst.

Expert Tips for Driving Pickup Trucks in Winter Weather

Driving a pickup truck in winter requires a mix of the right equipment and the right techniques. Alongside your set of winter tires, there are expert tips to keep in mind that can make all the difference when you’re out on the snowy roads.

Maintaining a consistent speed as a rule is important—as is avoiding your brakes on curves. Abrupt acceleration or deceleration could result in skidding, so to avoid such mishaps, you should keep your speed steady. And remember, the following distance can keep your vehicle out of trouble.

Keeping great winter driving habits has its rewards. If you ever want to sell us your undamaged vehicle, all-season and winter tires with good tread wear will keep you safe on the road and increase the price we can offer you!

Utilizing 4WD and Snow Mode

For pickup trucks equipped with 4WD or snow mode, these features can drastically change the game in winter conditions. Engaging 4WD provides power to all wheels, giving you the maximum grip needed to navigate through loose footing like snow and slush.

Some used pickups come in RWD, which has a natural disadvantage in snow. The weight distribution of a RWD truck makes it more difficult to maintain contact with the road. That’s why when you buy a new GMC or Chevrolet truck, you may want to consider 4WD!

Snow mode is particularly useful for smoothing out throttle inputs, which helps prevent wheel spinning on icy surfaces. It’s like having a co-pilot that knows exactly how to handle the winter roads. Ask our sales advisors for help finding a new or used truck with a snow mode built in!

Essential Tools to Carry

What should you do if you encounter a winter emergency? It’s always best to be prepared with a few essential tools. A shovel is indispensable for digging out snow from around your wheels, and sand or cat litter can provide that extra traction when you’re stuck on ice.

Traction boards are another vital tool for getting unstuck from mud or snow. Together with a spare winter tire and an emergency kit, these tools can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major ordeal.

Get Winter Tires for Your Truck at Shaw GMC This Fall

By understanding the importance of tread design, rubber composition, and the right time to install these winter essentials, you can ensure your pickup truck is ready to face the winter head-on. From the pickup trucks we sell off of our lot to the truck fleets we rent out, communicating the importance of winter tires is a top concern.

Remember, maintaining tire pressure and inspecting tread wear are just as important as the initial investment in winter tires. And for those times when winter throws a curveball, having chains, cables, and essential tools on hand can save the day.

Don’t wait until the first snowfall to equip your pickup truck with the best winter tires. Visit Shaw Chevrolet GMC Buick this fall and ensure your vehicle is ready to tackle the winter roads with confidence through our Tire Advantage program.

Our expert team will help you select the perfect set of winter tires tailored to your driving needs, providing you with the traction and stability you need to stay safe. Schedule your appointment today and drive into winter with peace of mind!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my winter tires?

You should replace your winter tires every five to six seasons or when the tread depth reaches 4/32 inches. Regularly check for signs of wear like uneven tread or cracks to ensure safety.

Furthermore, f you’ve modified a truck, as when lifting it, getting oversized tires with deep (10-11/32-inch or more) treads is just as important as factory winter tread. And you should replace oversized tires when they reach 4/32-inch tread depth as well!

Can I use winter tires all year round?

No, you should not use winter tires all year round as it can cause premature wear. It’s recommended to switch to all-season or summer tires in warmer seasons.

The formula of the rubber in each kind of tire is slightly different, translating to real differences in performance that many of our staff and customers say they can even feel from the driver’s seat.

Are snow chains a substitute for winter tires?

No, snow chains are not a substitute for winter tires, but they can provide extra traction in extreme conditions and are meant to be used alongside winter tires, following manufacturer recommendations and local laws.

When should I check the tire pressure in my winter tires?

You should check the tire pressure in your winter tires at least once a month and before any long trip, as it tends to decrease in cold weather. Keep an eye on it to ensure safe driving.

The great thing about tire pressure is that it’s easy to keep on top of. Open your door to look at your GMC, Chevrolet truck’s OEM tire pressure guidelines, and use an air pump at a gas station before you do any serious winter driving.

What is the primary advantage of using snow mode in a pickup truck?

Using snow mode in a pickup truck helps minimize wheel spin and enhances control on slippery surfaces, making it easier to drive in snow or ice.

For example, GMC’s driver assistance suite comes a traction select system featuring their very own “snow/ice” setting, among a dozen other modes.