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What are some of the ways that traction varies with your tire condition?
My car has felt a bit slippy recently, especially in wet conditions. I can’t remember the last time I got new tires but I am wondering if it’s time to replace them. What are some of the ways that traction varies with your tire condition?
Bonnie Stinson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Excellent question! Traction varies with your tire condition due to tread shape, tread wear, and tire material, as well as under or overinflation.
Traction is how we describe the way that a tire grips the ground. Tire condition (like tread shape, wear, and material) has a major impact on traction, in combination with factors like weather and road substance (i.e., a gravel road versus a paved road).
Tread shape allows water to channel off the tires. This helps the flat parts of the tire to connect with the ground and prevent hydroplaning in wet conditions. Deep treads are often used in vehicles that face extremely muddy conditions.
Tread wear is when the tread wears down, reducing the effectiveness of the tread on the ground. Rounded gaps and smaller treads are much less helpful at achieving friction with the road—and far more dangerous.
Tire material determines how well the tire grips the ground, too. Special rubber blends are created by car manufacturers to achieve safe traction levels.
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