I was wondering if SUmmer tires can take cold low temps of winter. Im not saying that to drive them in the snow but what if you wanted to take your baby out one day in the cold and the roads were perfect and if it isnt snowing but you have sumemr tires on. Is there any dangers or precautions to take when using summer tires in the cold?? Not long distances but maybe around town give or take 5-10 miles back and forth from my home. Thanks

It is said that the performance of summer tyres deteriorates markedly below 7 deg C. I have never noticed this alleged phenomenon in hundreds of thousands of miles.

We use summer tyres year round in the UK. I have no idea why nobody switches to winter tyres. It is difficult even to buy winter tyres here. For instance, Michelin Pilot Alpins or even Pilot Sport A/S are not readily available, nor is the Conti Extreme Contact, nor are the Dunlop Winter Sport tyres commonly fitted to Mercedes.

Our winters are not particularly severe, but sub-zero (centigrade) tempetatures, frost, ice, snow, slush and rain are the norm during the winter months. I have never encountered any circumstances in which care and caution have been insufficient. I have driven my SL in snow (4 inches) without difficulty (one season shod with Conti Sport Contacts and another wearing Michelin Pilot Sports). In fact I was impressed, much better than my C240 on Michelins which I my brother had to tow up a snow covered hill with his Range Rover one Christmas.

I cannot imagine that one of those dry, crisp and clear winter mornings which are winter's reward for weeks of grey days would throw up an obstacle to a good blast in your summer car.

__________________
JJ Rodger
2013 G350 Bluetec
1999 SL 500
1993 E300 diesel T
1990 190

I see lots of people in NY driving their summer tires in the dead of the winter on rainy or dry days. I wouldn't drive them in the snow, at least in England the drivers know a thing or two about driving etiquette, here you'll pay dearly if someone turns into your lane without signalling as is the norm in this city. I don't even drive on a snowy day with my all seasons unless I absolutely have to. If you live in NY you must know this already

The one time of the year I fear is the first snowfall when I don't have the winter tires on yet!
My car is nearly undriveable in snow without "grips". The HR speed-rated Michelin Pilot Alpins are very comfortable and even quieter on dry pavement than Pilot Sports or Pilot HX tires.

I agree with others who wonder why owners will pay for various upgrades but ignore the most important performance AND safety parts on any car: the tires! I'll run 3 different sets during the year for winter, summer and performance driving.

__________________
Dean Albrecht
"Lead, follow, or better yet, get out of the way!"E500 owners motto