TireTalk

A winter road trip can be an amazing experience—or a stressful one if your vehicle isn’t properly prepared. Cold weather, slippery roads, and long distances put extra pressure on your tires, brakes, and alignment. At TireWarehouse, we know that proper preparation is key to a safe winter journey.

1. Tires: Your First Point of Contact with the Road

Winter tire checklist:

• ✔️ Install winter tires or winter-rated all-season tires

• ✔️ Minimum recommended tread depth: 5/32”

• ✔️ Check tire pressure regularly (cold weather lowers PSI)

• ✔️ Inspect for cracks, uneven wear, or visible damage

Tip: Winter tires provide better traction, steering control, and shorter braking distances on snow and ice.

2. Brakes: Stop Safely on Slippery Roads

Braking distances increase significantly in winter conditions, making brake performance more important than ever.

Brake inspection essentials:

• ✔️ Adequate brake pad thickness

• ✔️ Smooth, vibration-free rotors

• ✔️ Firm brake pedal response

• ✔️ No grinding, squealing, or metallic noises

Tip: If your brakes were already worn, winter driving will accelerate the problem.

3. Alignment: Stability and Control All Winter Long

Signs your alignment needs attention:

• ✔️ Vehicle pulls to one side

• ✔️ Steering wheel vibration

• ✔️ Uneven or rapid tire wear

Tip: Proper wheel alignment improves traction, steering precision, and tire lifespan in winter conditions.

Final Winter Road Trip Checklist

•  Winter-ready tires

•  Correct tire pressure and tread depth

•  Brakes inspected and fully functional

•  Professional wheel alignment

Spending a few minutes on these checks can prevent accidents, delays, and costly repairs.