As the weather warms up and spring transitions into summer, it’s time to start thinking about switching out your winter tyres for summer ones. Making the swap to summer tyres like those from Goodyear allows you to drive safely and efficiently during the warmer months. Here’s a look at when and why you should make the switch.

Know When to Switch to Summer Rubber

Timing is important when it comes to changing over to summer tyres. As a general rule, you’ll want to swap them when temperatures consistently reach around 7°C or above. This usually occurs sometime between March and May depending on where you live.

You can check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on when to rotate tyres. Some good guidelines include:

Switch tyres when the weather forecast shows temperatures will be steadily above 7°C for the next few weeks. Early spring is a common time.
Don’t wait until the last minute when it’s already quite hot out. You want to swap tyres as soon as sustained warmer weather arrives.
If temperatures drop below 7°C again for a prolonged period, you can switch back to your winter tyres until it warms up again.

Pay attention to weather reports and average seasonal temperatures in your area. This will give you a good indication of the ideal time to swap your tyres.

The Benefits of Summer vs. Winter Rubber

Winter and summer tyres are engineered differently to perform optimally during their respective seasons. Here’s a look at some of the key differences and benefits:

Tread pattern – Winter tyres have more sipes and grooves for enhanced traction in snow and ice. Summer tyres have shallower tread which helps to optimise grip on dry roads.
Rubber compound – Winter rubber stays pliable and grippy in colder temperatures. Summer rubber is formulated to be stable and prevent overheating in hot weather.
Performance – In the environment they’re designed for, winter tyres provide better acceleration, handling, and braking compared to summer or all-season tyres. The same goes for summer rubber in warm conditions.
Wet weather handling – Modern summer tyres use advanced tread patterns and compounds to provide solid wet weather performance, although not as good as a winter tyre in snow.

So in the warmer months, you’ll enjoy better responsiveness and handling going with summer tyres rather than leaving your winter ones on. The summer tread and rubber is engineered to match the conditions.

Additional Benefits of Summer Tyres

Along with the performance benefits in warm weather, summer tyres provide some other advantages compared to winter or all-season rubber:

Improved fuel economy – The summer tread pattern helps to reduce rolling resistance which improves fuel efficiency. You may see a 3-5% improvement.
Enhanced braking – Summer tread is designed to deliver shorter braking distances on warm, dry roads compared to winter or all-season tyres.
Quieter ride – Winter tyres tend to be noisier, especially on hot pavement. Summer rubber is formulated for a quieter ride.
Better value – Dedicated summer and winter tyres generally last longer than all-seasons which have to make performance compromises. You get better mileage for your money.

So by installing true summer tyres in warm weather, you get a better performing, safer, and more cost-effective option compared to wearing winter or all-season rubber year-round.

Choosing the Best Summer Tyres

Once you decide it’s time to swap out your winter tyres, the next step is choosing the right summer rubber. Here are some tips for selecting top-quality summer tyres:

Know your priorities – Consider if you prioritize sporty handling, a smooth quiet ride, enhanced wet weather traction, or extreme high-speed capability. This helps narrow down options.
Look for good treadwear ratings – A higher treadwear rating indicates tyres that will last longer before needing to be replaced. It’s a sign of durability.
Consider performance categories – Summer tyres come in categories like ultra high-performance, max performance, and eco-focused. Know which level you need.
Check professional tests – Sources like TyreReviews.com perform extensive summer tyre tests and reviews. Check their data to see the best picks for factors like grip, handling, and wear.
Know the right size – Be sure to buy tyres matched to the specific rim size and dimensions recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. This ensures ideal fit and performance.
Buy from trusted brands – Stick with proven, high-quality manufacturers like Goodyear that make top-rated summer tyres backed by warranties.

Key Times to Plan a Tyre Swap

While you’ll swap tyres as seasons change, a few good times to schedule the wheel change include:

Spring – As mentioned, early spring when sustained warmer weather arrives is prime for the winter-to-summer tyre change.
Before a road trip – Don’t take a long summer drive on worn winter tyres. Get new summer rubber installed beforehand.
Fall – Rotate back to winter tyres as colder weather returns, often in October or November.
Replacements – If your existing tyres are worn out, replace them with appropriate summer or winter tyres based on the season.

Planning the transitions between your summer and winter wheels/tyres during these prime times ensures you always have ideal rubber for the conditions at hand.

Work with Your Local Goodyear Dealer

Installing new summer tyres when needed provides big benefits in safety, performance, and value. But proper installation is critical and seasonal changeovers can be a hassle. That’s where your local authorised Goodyear tyre dealer can help.

The tyre experts at Brendale Goodyear make swapping between winter and summer tyres fast, easy, and affordable. Their certified mechanics will handle the entire changeover process and make sure your new rubber is fitted perfectly for responsive handling and a smooth, quiet ride.

They offer complete tyre services as a trusted Goodyear dealer so you always have access to the latest innovative products. Switching over to quality Goodyear summer tyres from Brendale Goodyear provides peace of mind that your vehicle will perform safely all season long.

Frequently Asked Questions

✓What’s the ideal temperature to switch from winter to summer tyres?

The ideal time is usually when temperatures consistently reach at least 7°C or higher during the day. This signals warmer weather is here to stay and summer tyres will perform best.

✓How much tread should be left before installing summer tyres?

Ideally around 4-5mm of tread depth is preferred when installing new summer tyres for good wet weather performance. Tyres under 3mm should be replaced.

✓How do I know if my existing tyres are winter or summer ones?

Check the tyre sidewall. Winter tyres are marked with a mountain/snowflake symbol. If not seen, they are likely all-season or summer tyres.

✓Should I buy the same brand for summer as my winter tyres?

Not necessarily – you can mix brands. But buying another set of the same tyres helps ensure even wear and performance.

Following the tips above will ensure you know the optimal times to make the switch between winter and summer tyres. Consult a professional Goodyear dealer, Brendale Goodyear to make the process seamless. By installing high-quality summer rubber you’ll stay safe and enjoy peak handling and performance all warm weather long.