FARGO — As the first signs of winter appear and snow‑covered roads loom on the horizon, local drivers are being reminded to prepare their vehicles for icy conditions. The most critical step, according to auto specialists, is selecting the right tires for the season.
Why tire choice matters in North Dakota
Winter in North Dakota brings temperatures that can drop well below freezing, and road surfaces quickly become slick. Summer tires and many all‑season tires are formulated with a rubber compound that hardens in extreme cold, dramatically reducing traction. When the rubber loses its flexibility, drivers can experience longer stopping distances and a higher risk of losing control.
Winter and all‑weather tires are the safer option
Winter tires are specifically engineered with softer rubber and deeper tread patterns that remain pliable in sub‑zero weather, providing superior grip on snow and ice. All‑weather tires, a newer subcategory, combine some of the benefits of winter tires with a tread design that can handle a broader range of temperatures, making them a viable alternative for drivers who do not want to change tires twice a year.
John Cegla, owner of Fix It Forward Auto Care, explained that the term “all‑season tire” can be misleading for drivers in the Upper Midwest. “All‑season tires are really three‑season tires,” Cegla said. “They work fine in places like Texas or Oklahoma, but up here they don’t meet the demands of our winter weather. That’s why the industry introduced all‑weather tires, and we highly recommend them for Fargo drivers.”
Additional maintenance steps
Even with the proper tires, Cegla stresses the importance of routine maintenance. He advises drivers to have their tires inspected, rotated, and balanced, and to check the vehicle’s alignment before the first major freeze. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, reducing the effectiveness of even the best winter tires.
Other simple checks include verifying tire pressure, as cold air can lower pressure and affect handling. Keeping the tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level helps maintain optimal contact with the road.
Local resources
Fargo residents can schedule tire inspections and services at Fix It Forward Auto Care or any reputable local shop. Many shops offer winter‑tire packages that include mounting, balancing, and a complimentary alignment check.
By taking these proactive steps now, drivers can help ensure safer travel throughout the winter months, protecting themselves, their families, and the broader community from preventable accidents caused by inadequate tire performance.
Original reporting: InForum (Fargo section) — read the source article.
