The Ultimate Fall Tire Guide: All-Season vs. Winter Tires

As the leaves turn and the temperatures drop, fall marks more than just a change in seasons—it’s also a signal for drivers to start thinking about their tires. At Kunes Auto Group, we want you to head into winter with confidence and safety. Understanding the difference between all-season and winter tires, knowing when to make the switch, and recognizing the value of professional installation can make all the difference in how your vehicle performs during cold weather.

Whether you’re commuting to work, hauling equipment, or taking weekend road trips, your tires are your vehicle’s only point of contact with the road—so choosing the right ones is essential.

As temperatures begin to fluctuate, so does your tire performance. Rubber compounds react to temperature changes—meaning the same set of tires that performed beautifully in July may not handle nearly as well in November.

Here’s why:

• Cold weather hardens standard tire rubber, reducing grip and flexibility.
• Road conditions change dramatically, with the onset of rain, frost, and early snow.
• Stopping distances increase, especially when tires aren’t designed for lower temperatures.

That’s why fall is the ideal time to assess your current tires and decide if it’s time for a change.

All-season tires are designed to offer a balance between summer and winter performance. They feature moderate tread depth and rubber compounds that work across a wide range of conditions—perfect for areas with mild seasonal changes.

• Convenience: You can leave them on year-round without switching sets.
• Cost savings: No need for storage or an additional tire set.
• Good fuel efficiency: Typically quieter and smoother on dry or wet roads.
• Ideal for moderate climates: Perform well in rain, light snow, and mild cold.

Despite the name, “all-season” doesn’t mean “all conditions.” Once temperatures drop below 45°F (7°C), the rubber in all-season tires starts to stiffen, reducing traction and braking ability on icy or snowy surfaces.

If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, icy roads, or consistently cold winters, all-season tires might not give you the grip you need for maximum safety.

Winter tires (also known as snow tires) are engineered for one purpose—superior performance in cold, snowy, and icy conditions. Their tread designs, siping (tiny slits in the tread blocks), and specialized rubber compounds are built to keep you safe when temperatures plunge.

• Enhanced traction: Deeper tread patterns bite into snow and slush.
• Superior braking: Stop faster on icy or snowy roads.
• Cold-resistant rubber: Maintains flexibility and grip even below freezing.
• Confidence and control: Reduces the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.

• Faster wear in warm temperatures: The softer rubber wears down quickly when it’s not cold.
• Increased road noise: The aggressive tread pattern can produce more sound on dry pavement.
• Seasonal change required: You’ll need to switch back to all-season or summer tires in spring.

For drivers in the Midwest—where Kunes Auto Group dealerships operate—winter tires can be a game-changer. Wisconsin, Illinois, and Iowa drivers often face unpredictable conditions that can go from rain to ice in hours. Investing in a set of winter tires is one of the best safety decisions you can make.

Timing is everything. You don’t want to wait for the first snowstorm to realize your tires aren’t ready.

Here’s a simple guideline:

• Switch to winter tires when temperatures consistently fall below 45°F (7°C).
• Switch back to all-season tires once temperatures consistently rise above 50°F (10°C) in spring.

This temperature-based approach ensures your tires are performing at their best and helps extend their lifespan. Remember—tire performance is about temperature, not just snowfall.

Not all tires are created equal. Choosing the right ones depends on your vehicle type, driving habits, and local climate.

Your vehicle’s manual lists the recommended tire size, load index, and speed rating. Using the correct specifications ensures optimal handling and fuel economy.

• If you drive mainly in urban areas with well-plowed roads, high-quality all-seasons might suffice.
• If you frequently travel on rural, slushy, or icy roads, winter tires are essential.

Tires with this symbol are certified for severe snow service and meet rigorous traction standards.

• All-Season Touring: Balanced comfort and long tread life.
• Performance All-Season: Better grip and handling for sporty driving.
• Studless Winter: Great traction without damaging roads.
• Studded Winter: Exceptional grip on ice (check your state’s laws first).

If you’re unsure which is best for your driving needs, the experts at Kunes Auto Group Service Centers can help you find the perfect match.

Once you’ve chosen the right tires, professional installation is key to safety and performance. At Kunes Auto Group, our factory-trained technicians do more than just mount tires—they ensure everything works in harmony.

Improperly mounted or unbalanced tires can cause vibration, uneven wear, and reduced fuel economy. Our team uses advanced equipment to ensure each tire is installed to manufacturer specifications.

We’ll inspect and adjust your wheel alignment to ensure proper handling, reduce tread wear, and keep your vehicle running smoothly all season long.

Our technicians recalibrate and test your TPMS to ensure accurate readings—critical during temperature drops when air pressure fluctuates.

Even the best tires need care to perform their best. Here are some quick maintenance tips:

• Check tire pressure monthly. Cold weather causes air pressure to drop about 1 PSI for every 10°F decrease in temperature.
• Inspect tread depth. Use a penny test or a tread depth gauge—replace tires with less than 4/32” tread for winter driving.
• Rotate regularly. Every 5,000–7,000 miles helps ensure even wear.
• Avoid mismatched tires. Mixing different brands or tread types can reduce stability.
• Clean your tires. Road salt and grime can degrade rubber and wheel finishes over time.

At Kunes Auto Group, we’re more than just your local dealership—we’re your automotive care partner. With dozens of service centers across the Midwest, our certified technicians are ready to help you prepare for the changing seasons with expert tire advice, professional installation, and unbeatable customer service.

Don’t wait for the first snow to fall—schedule your tire inspection or installation at your nearest Kunes dealership today. We’ll help you choose the right tires, install them with precision, and ensure your vehicle is ready for whatever fall and winter bring.