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Snow Tires Versus All Season Tires - Does it Really Make a Difference?

Roberta Willson • January 19, 2022

The first true snow storm of the 2022 winter season has come and gone. Hopefully you and your car made it through without any issues. If you have found your vehicle struggling to make it through the snow, sleet and ice, it may be time to think about new tires. 


The truth of the matter is that if you live in a place that gets a good amount of snow or winter weather, snow tires are really a must in order to save you time and money in the long run. Most people do not get snow tires, keeping their “all-season” tires on to save the money and time it takes to change them out but actually you will be saving both in the long run. Let me tell you how.


How Switching Your Tires to Winter Tires Will Save You Money


Although winter tires will cost you some money upfront, you can choose to purchase new snow tires or you can purchase used tires. R. H. Willson has affordable used snow tires, just call and see if we can find the right set for your vehicle. An additional savings you will find when switching to winter tires is multiple use seasons. Snow tires typically last about five seasons and by switching to snow tires in the winter months, you will get more seasons out of your “all-season” tires as well. 


The biggest direct savings will come from any future issues you might have. Imagine if you do get into an accident because your “all-season” tires fail, your deductible is likely in the $500 to $1,000 range. Your snow tires could actually pay for themselves in a single season if they keep you out of an accident.

How Switching Your Tires Will Save You Time


You will be investing some additional time to put the snow tires on your vehicle and of course time to switch them back to your “all-season” tires once the winter months are over. I believe that the time you will save on the many potential issues you will encounter with a snowstorm will be worth it in the end. 

Why Switching Your Tires is the Safer Option


Last but certainly not least, safety. All-season tires are made with rubber compounds that quite literally slide on ice. Snow tires are made with softer rubber compounds and added silica to give them more flexibility and grip on ice. Snow tires are made to have more cuts in the tread which help grip the road in the winter/icy conditions. They have small slices in the tire called sipes that grip onto whatever they can on the road for an increase in grip on winter and icy conditions. 


All this to say, if you live in a snowy climate for the winter months, it is in your best interest to invest the time and money for snow tires - to save you time, money and safety in the long run!

A Thanksgiving Tradition: Macy’s Day Parade

By Roberta Willson • November 25, 2024
One of this country's most celebrated Thanksgiving traditions is the Macy’s Day Parade! I am sure you are excited about the floats, the entertainers, and the celebrities, but what about all the trucks that these floats are towed with and the numbers behind them? Here are just four fun facts from the Macy’s Day Parade.

10 of the Best Vehicles from Films Over the Years

By Roberta Willson • September 9, 2024
Cars play a significant role in movies, they change how the film is viewed and enjoyed. We have compiled a list of 10 movies with some of the best or iconic vehicles of their time.

Getting Your Car Ready: Summer Vs. Winter

By Roberta Willson • May 15, 2024
There are many differences from the winter months to summertime and I am not just talking about the weather! Your car reacts differently and therefore needs to be taken care of differently. Here are 5 items to check when switching your vehicle from the winter to the summer months.

Fuel Economy by Season

By Jason Pelland • February 8, 2024
Just like us, our vehicles operate a little differently based on the season and temperatures outside. Here in New England, we get all kinds of weather but what does that mean for your car and getting the best gas mileage by the season. Here are some tips and tricks to get the most out of your fuel economy, all year long!

What to do when you bring a car to the salvage yard

By Roberta Willson • January 24, 2024
Is it time for a new vehicle? Are you looking for a great way to make some money before you purchase a new or used vehicle? Did you just put on new tires or new parts into your vehicle? A salvage yard is a great option! A salvage yard might give you more money for your vehicle or parts than from a private sale or as a trade-in at a dealership. Once you have decided to bring your vehicle to a salvage yard, now what? How do you prepare yourself before you arrive and what happens when you get to the salvage yard? Let’s go through the steps to get you the cash you want from your used vehicle! Step One: Make sure you have the title to your vehicle. In order to sell your car to anyone, you need the title to your vehicle and a salvage yard is no exception. If you cannot find or have lost your title, you can request a new one from the RMV. The requirements to obtain a copy are dependent based on which state you live in.

How to Get the Most Out Of Your Gallon of Gas

By Roberta Willson • November 16, 2023
The national average through 2023 is $3.58 per gallon of gas with it fluctuating each and every month. The good news is that we have seen gas prices go down over the last 12 months but it is still high enough to affect where people go on vacations, holidays, and even just weekend activities. If you are looking to save some cash with the holidays just around the corner. Here are six tips to help you get the most out of that pricey gallon of gas!

5 Reasons For The Trend Toward Smaller Cars

September 25, 2023
The trend towards smaller cars has been in the works for awhile but this year was the first year that critics and consumers agree - smaller is actually better. Gas pricing are soaring, parking is expensive, the economy is still recovering and where consumers can save some money are on smaller cars. Smaller cars mean less gas, mostly likely a lower MSRP, which in turns would mean cheaper upfront costs or even monthly car payments. Let’s discuss 5 reasons for this trend.

What should you do when your car or a part is recalled?

By Jason Pelland • August 29, 2023
Did you get a letter in the mail from the manufacturer, car dealership or even check online to find out that your vehicle has a recall? What should you do, how urgent is the recall, what steps do you need to take to ensure your vehicle is at its’ optimal preference level? First, let’s put it into perspective. While a recall is not something you should ignore; there are over 400 recalls a year that affect more than 25 million vehicles in the U.S. alone. In addition, the average vehicle will have 4 recalls in its lifespan and recalls never expire. Now that we have some perspective. What is the first thing you need to do once you become aware of your vehicle’s recall status? If you purchase your vehicle new or used from a dealership, contact them directly and they will advise you. If you purchased your vehicle through a private seller, contact the vehicle manufacturer and they are required by law to either repair the issue, replace the recalled item or refund the purchase price of the vehicle, minus depreciation.

5 Noises that Need Immediate Attention

By Roberta Willson • July 12, 2023
Our vehicles go through a lot. Most of us will ignore some noises that come out of our vehicle but there are some that just cannot be ignored. The question is, what are those noises that need your immediate attention.

Road Trip Ready: Your Vehicle Checklist

By Roberta Willson • June 7, 2023
It might not always feel like summer in New England but it’s right around the corner. As summer arrives, road trips may be in your future. Road trips can be fun and adventurous but having any car issues could certainly put a damper on your road trip. Let’s discuss how to get your vehicle “road-trip ready” so you can focus on the fun and adventure and not any mishaps with your vehicle!
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