If you get the weather from all four seasons in your neck of the woods, you likely are rocking winter tires for all of winter and maybe into early spring. But as spring warms up, you might want to start looking at switching back to your summer tires or purchasing a new set of summer tires sooner rather than later. Here's why it's a good idea to switch back to summer tires once you are sure the snow is gone and not coming back anytime soon.

Better Handling on Dry Roads

Winter tires are designed to be used on icy, slick roads. The tires have a bit more give to them in order to allow you to remain in control of the car when you hit an icy patch. But this extra give is not ideal for driving on dry roads because it's not necessary and actually results in poorer handling. Summer tires have more grip on dry roads and your handling will improve. You don't have to have a sports car to want to benefit from better handling, either. Being able to get your car to respond immediately when you want it to can keep you safer on the road.

Protect the Lifespan of Winter Tires

Winter tires will go through normal wear and tear when driving on icy roads, but this wear and tear can accelerate a bit when driving winter tires on dry roads. The design of the tread and the fact that the rubber has more give as described will cause your car to take just a little bit longer to stop every time when driving on a dry road and this will cause more wear. Ideally, you will want to drive winter tires when it is actually snowy and icy out and summer tires even in the spring once the weather is warmer in order to protect the lifespan of both sets of tires.

Improve Your Fuel Efficiency

Summer tires require less energy to move on average than a set of winter tires. Using less energy when you drive means the car will be more fuel efficient. Switching to a set of summer tires will allow your gas tank to go further during your summer joy rides.

Reduce Hydroplaning

It's true that winter tires are designed for snow and ice, but if you are worried about water in its liquid form, summer tires might actually be better. The tread on summer tires is designed to disperse water and reduce or eliminate the risk of hydroplaning. That extra give on winter tires will once again cause a problem when you are trying to drive through a puddle or stream of water.

Visit a car service such as Western Avenue Nissan for more info on tires.