What is the 7-7 Rule of Tires?

Staying safe in the winter months means being prepared for icy conditions, as winter weather sees an increase in traffic volumes. It’s also about using the right type of tires, which is where the 7-7 rule comes into play. This rule states that if the outside temperature drops below 7 degrees Celsius, or 45 degrees Fahrenheit, for 7 days in a row, you must replace your daily tires with a winter model.

Extended cold cuts are a problem with regular all-season tires because of the way they are designed. The rubber contained in these tires becomes harder and more flexible in cold weather. When this happens, your tires’ ability to grip the road is reduced, which can be very dangerous in snow and ice. In contrast, winter tires are made of rubber that stays soft in cold temperatures, and with a deeper tread, giving you better traction, and improved handling. This means you have more control, which can ultimately keep you safer.

What makes winter tires suitable for cold temperatures can have the opposite effect in non-winter weather. This means that once the cold months are over, you have to go back. Otherwise, the tread of your winter tires will begin to deteriorate as the heat affects the soft rubber. Therefore, even with deep tread, the ability of your tires to grip the road well can be affected. If you’d rather not worry about the 7-7 rule, you can use all-weather or all-season tires instead.

It is important to safely store your everyday tires after they have been replaced with a set of winter tires. If you’re storing them outdoors, Goodyear recommends protecting them in waterproof bags and keeping them off the ground. Otherwise, they should be indoors, in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. If the tires are out of line, they should be stored on the ground and stacked on top of each other. If the tires are on the rim, they can be stored in the same way, or hung by the tire on the wall hooks.

When installing your snow tires, it is best to use a full set. This is because having only a pair of winter tires on the drive wheels can reduce your stability on the road. Additionally, if you’re using winter tires that don’t have the special mountain/snowflake logo on the sidewall, you may want to consider getting new ones. The Three Mountain Snowflake seal ensures that your tires meet industry standards for snow traction.

However, using the right tires is not enough, as you will need to check your air pressure regularly. A drop in temperature can reduce tire pressure, causing you to lose your grip on the road. It can also cause uneven wear, which is why you should monitor the tread depth regularly. Be sure to keep your tires well rotated, and above all, be careful on the road. Winter tires can help keep you safe, but it’s up to you to drive carefully.