As the temperatures rise, it’s time to start thinking about switching your winter tires for summer ones. If you’ve been driving on winter tires all season, you’re already well aware of how crucial tire selection is for safe driving. But did you know that the spring tire swap is also a perfect time to give your vehicle a thorough health check?

For those who tend to procrastinate and think they can delay their tire change until May or June, Josh Adams, co-owner of Dettmer Tire, offers some helpful advice.

“Now is the ideal time to switch to your summer tires,” said Adams. “Winter tires are designed for temperatures below seven degrees Celsius. When the weather warms up, the rubber compounds in winter tires begin to overheat, which can cause blowouts or irregular wear. This can shorten their lifespan and lead to costly replacements.”

While an April snowfall may still be in the cards, Adams insists that scheduling your tire swap in advance is always a smart move. “You can always reschedule if the weather turns cold again, but it’s better to have your appointment booked early to get your car prepared for the warmer months,” he added.

Proper Tire Storage Tips

Once you’ve made the switch, the next question is: how should you store your winter tires? For those not using Dettmer Tire’s tire storage service, Adams offers some key tips:

“It’s best to store tires stacked on top of each other, not on their sides, and keep them out of direct sunlight,” Adams advised. “Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as this can cause the tires to dry out and crack. Also, make sure they’re stored in a well-ventilated area where moisture can escape.”

A Tire Swap is the Perfect Time for a Health Inspection

When you take your vehicle in for a tire swap, it’s the perfect opportunity to schedule a Vehicle Health Inspection with Dettmer Tire. Store Manager Kristian Reginato emphasized the importance of this preventive service after the demands of winter driving.

“The Vehicle Health Inspection is a comprehensive check-up for your car,” Reginato explained. “We’ll inspect the steering and suspension components, check for any irregular tire wear, measure the brake pads, ensure the parking brake is functioning, and check all your fluids, exhaust system, and filters. It’s a full evaluation of your vehicle to make sure everything is in good condition.”

Spring maintenance, Reginato added, is a great chance to spot potential issues before they become more expensive repairs. Plus, booking your tire swap and Vehicle Health Inspection together can save you money. When you combine both services, you’ll receive a $20 discount. Or, if you schedule your tire swap with an oil change, you’ll save $10.

Book Your Appointment Early

As the weather warms and more drivers schedule their tire swaps, Reginato advised booking your appointment sooner rather than later. “Right now, we’re booking two to three days in advance. It’s not too busy yet, but as the temperature continues to rise, the demand will increase,” he said. “We’ll do our best to accommodate customers, even if they need to come in earlier.”

With warmer weather on the horizon, now is the time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road. Book your spring tire swap and health inspection today at Dettmer Tire and enjoy a smooth, safe ride into the new season.