Why You Should Ditch Winter Tires in Spring – And Where to Find the Best Tire Deals in Montpelier, Vermont

Keep Your Car Safe, and In Control with Central Vermont Auto Mart

As spring arrives in Vermont and the snow finally melts from our roads, many drivers are quick to roll down their windows, but slow to roll off their winter tires. We get it-after a long winter, switching tires might not be at the top of your to-do list. But here's the truth: keeping your winter tires on through warm weather could cost you more than you think.

From fuel savings and handling to tire longevity and safety, making the change to summer or all-season tires at the right time is one of the smartest maintenance moves you can. And when you're ready, we've got the best tire deals in Montpelier, Vermont to help make the transition easy and affordable.

Why Summer Tires Matter When It Warms Up

Winter tires are designed for cold, icy, and snowy conditions. Once temperatures climb above 45°F on a regular basis, those tires start working against you.

Summer vs Winter tires for Montpelier Vermont Drivers
Summer tires, on the other hand, are made with a rubber compound that performs best in warm weather. They offer:

  • Better Grip - Especially in dry and wet road conditions.
  • Improved Handling - You'll notice more responsive steering and cornering.
  • Shorter Braking Distance - A critical safety factor on spring roads, especially in the rain.
  • Enhanced Fuel Economy - Less rolling resistance means fewer stops at the pump.
In short, summer tires are built to keep you safe, efficient, and comfortable once the snow is gone and temperatures warms up.


Still Driving on Your Winter Tires? Here's Why That's a Problem

Keeping your winter tires on through the spring and summer doesn't save you money-it actually accelerates tire wear and creates new risks.

  • Rapid Tread Wear - Winter tires are made from a softer rubber compound, which wears down quickly on hot pavement.
  • Reduced Safety - As that tread wears, your stopping distance increases, and your risk of hydroplaning rises.
  • Rougher Ride & More Road Noise - Winter treads aren't designed for smooth, dry asphalt.
  • Premature Replacement - Your tires might have another snow season left, but if you run them all year, by the time snow returns, your tires might be too worn to keep you safe-forcing you to buy new winter tires sooner than you may have needed to.

Think of your winter tires like a good pair of snow boots-you probably wouldn't wear them in July?

Quick tips for keeping your car maintenance up to date from Central Vermont Auto Mart in Montpelier, Vermont. 
When to Switch: The 45-Degree Rule
A good rule of thumb in Vermont is to swap out your winter tires for summer tires when the temperature consistently stays above 45°F. That's usually early April in the Barre-Montpelier area, depending on the year.

Summer Tire Benefits You Might Not Think About

Fuel Savings
With less rolling resistance than winter tires, summer tires improve gas mileage-sometimes by several miles per gallon. Over the course of the warmer months, that adds up quickly.

Braking and Control
Better stopping performance and more predictable handling in both dry and wet conditions means increased confidence behind the wheel.

Performance & Comfort
Tighter steering, smoother turns, and a quieter ride will make you actually enjoy those Vermont back roads and scenic highways again.

Where to Find the Best Tire Deals in Montpelier, Vermont

At Central Vermont Auto Mart, we're here to help you switch smart and drive safe. Whether you need new summer tires, a quality all-season tire option, or just want to schedule your seasonal tire changeover, we've got your back.

  • Competitive pricing on leading tire brands
  • Expert tire recommendations based on your driving style
  • Fast, professional installation and balancing
  • Wheel alignment and suspension checks available
  • Seasonal tire specials to help stretch your budget further

Our team will gladly check your current tire wear and recommend the right time to change them out-so you get the longest life and best value from every set.  Stop by today if you have any questions and we are happy to take a look at your vehicle and give you recommendations.

Swapping your tires at the right time isn't just a box to check off. It's a simple step that improves safety, saves fuel, protects your investment, and ensures you're getting the most out of your tires-every season of the year.

So go ahead and schedule your changeover today. Visit Central Vermont Auto Mart in Montpelier for the best tire deals around and let our service team help you hit the road safely and confidently this spring.



calendar logo Publsihed 04/12/2025