Hello, I live in seattle and want to get some summer high preformence tires since I will be getting 18"s in a couple of months. The problem is summer tires don't do so well in cold temperatures.
So I was wondering who is using summer tires in the winter, and what your expieriences have been.
I really dont want all season tires, but i dont want to be slidding out all the time when the temp gets into the 40's and lower. So what have been peoples expiereinces? Thanks for any help!
-Drew

 

I see that the State Dept or someone is trying to get studded tires banned in Washington. Says they cost over 10 million a year to repair roads and stuff.

 

I did it last year... But it was a warm winter and this year is going to be different. Keep your stock tires and wheels on like EZ Rider said. Even though it was warm there were a few times that I wished I wasn't lazy and put my snow tires on.

 

I just know, I mean it has to be better. Pick up a Farmers Alminac.

 

It's about twice as cold as it was last year.

Frost is a common sight in Tacoma now...

I would NOT suggest you use summer tires at this time. Like suggested earlier, save the good rubber for the right time, and try to pick up stock wheels/tires for the winter. Drive slow and safe... it IS possible to lose control of an AWD car... quite easily actually, and you shouldn't overrated the advantages AWD affords you.

BTW, i just picked up a set of brand new Pirelli Pzero Neros... the summer tire, and i'm pretty bummed i won't be able to sport my new Rota Tarmacs/Pirellis for a few months... but the wait is worth it.

On a side note, the rex has been awfully happy with this dry, cold weather we've been getting recently.