Jimbeanz

Hi guys, I'm a newbie here.
Just got a new (used) 12 Civic SI. Apparently there are 2 winter tires on the front of the car, and 2 all seasons on the rear.
I was told this is ok for summer driving.
What about winter? I was told this can cause major fish tailing if I hit some ice or snow.
In the past I've never really bothered with winter tires. So I don't plan on switching them out every season.
Should I put 2 winters on the rear and drive with them all year? Or 2 all seasons on the front?

Thanks for any advice!

ol Dusty

iTrader: (2)

Only having winters on the front is not a great idea any season. The rear won't grip the same and causes a pendulum effect making it even more difficult to correct the car in reduced traction.

If you really insist on one set all year, I'd recommend the hancook optimo 4S or similar tire, there one of the few that are an all season but carry the little mountain with a snowflake icon that police look for in areas where winters are mandatory. Tho a common trade off with this type of tire is poor tread wear compared to other all seasons.

Now I may be a little biased as a guy who works in the trade, but I personally never take tires for granted. The only part of your car that actually touches the road. (or at least is supposed to be) Safety of myself, my car and more important my passengers including my wife and child, along with other people. Who am I to put you or anyone else in danger because I cheap'd out?

Not trying to hate on those who run all seasons, maybe you don't drive in the snow, you just stay home or take the bus, maybe it snows way less where you are...

Just I really like my car to perform its best in any condition, good winter tires can be both very comfortable in wet/dry conditions and out perform a lot of the cheap all season tires out there as it is but do even better when temps drop below 7 deg. Winter tires don't have to be snow tires that are loud and annoying on the highway either.

When I get a new car I like to put winters on the OE wheels and then get a nice set of summer tires and rims for the other 8-9 months.

Jimbeanz

Thanks for the advice!