Winter in Minnesota doesn’t give second chances when it comes to tire safety. Slippery roads, black ice, and piles of snow make reliable traction a must. If you're asking whether your tires can survive one more winter, it's time to take a closer look. Worn tires don’t just reduce grip, but they also lengthen stopping distances and increase your risk of sliding.
Here’s how to evaluate your tires before winter arrives and decide whether it’s time to invest in new ones.
Start with Tread Depth
The tread is what keeps your tires connected to the road. Deep grooves help channel away snow, slush, and water, while providing grip on icy pavement. As tread wears down, so does your tire’s ability to perform in winter conditions.
An easy way to check tread depth is the penny test. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is below 2/32 of an inch, which means the tires are legally worn out and unsafe. For winter driving, aim for at least 5/32 to 6/32 of an inch to maintain adequate traction.
Uneven Wear Is a Red Flag
Even if your tread depth appears acceptable, uneven wear can signal other issues. If the inside or outside edges of the tire are worn more than the center, you could have an alignment or suspension problem. Cupping, bald patches, or scalloping often point to worn shocks or improper inflation.
These conditions can make your tires unpredictable in winter weather. Even one tire with irregular wear can compromise your control when roads are slick.
Tire Age Matters Too
Rubber degrades over time, even if your tread looks okay. After about six years, tires begin to harden and lose flexibility. This becomes a problem in cold temperatures when pliability is essential for maintaining grip.
Check the DOT code on the tire sidewall to find the manufacturing date. If your tires are older than six to eight years, it may be wise to replace them before winter, even if they haven’t hit the mileage limit.
Look for Cracks and Dry Rot
Inspect your tires for visible cracks in the sidewalls or between the treads. These are signs of dry rot, which occurs when rubber becomes brittle. Cracks can allow moisture to seep into the tire structure, increasing the risk of a blowout.
Dry rot usually appears in tires that are older, rarely driven, or exposed to extreme weather. If you spot cracks, bulges, or blistering, don’t take a chance with another season of winter driving.
Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires
If your current tires are all-season and still in good shape, they may be sufficient for mild winter conditions. However, in a place like Coon Rapids, where roads stay icy and snow-packed, winter tires offer a real advantage.
Winter tires have softer rubber compounds that stay flexible in cold weather. Their tread patterns are designed to bite into snow and ice, improving braking and handling. If you frequently drive in heavy snow or remote areas, dedicated winter tires can be a smart investment for both safety and performance.
Should You Replace All Four Tires
For the best handling in winter, it’s important that all four tires match in tread depth and type. Mixing old and new tires or combining all-season and winter models can reduce stability and increase wear.
Even if only one or two tires are worn, replacing the full set helps maintain balance, traction, and proper control. If budget is an issue, your technician may recommend replacing the most worn pair and rotating them properly to maximize safety.
Get an Expert Opinion at Minnesota Automotive in Coon Rapids, MN
Still unsure whether your tires can handle another Minnesota winter? Bring your car to Minnesota Automotive in Coon Rapids, MN. Our technicians will inspect your tread, check for damage, and help you decide if a new set is needed. If so, we’ll recommend options that fit your vehicle, driving habits, and budget.
Make the call before the snow falls. Schedule your tire inspection today and stay safe through every mile of winter.