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When it comes to winter driving, choosing the right traction equipment is crucial for your safety. Two popular options are snow tires and tire chains. Each has its own set of pros and cons, and the choice between the two depends on various factors. Let's take a closer look at the differences between snow tires and tire chains to help you make an informed decision for your winter driving needs.

Snow Tires

Snow tires, also known as winter tires, are specifically designed to provide enhanced traction in snowy and icy conditions. They are made of a unique rubber compound and have a tread pattern that helps disperse slush and snow, minimizing the risk of skidding and improving control. Snow tires come in two main types: studded and non-studded.

Pros of Snow Tires:

  • Excellent traction on snowy and icy roads
  • Better control and handling in winter conditions
  • Suitable for long-term use throughout the winter season
  • Perform well on dry and wet roads

Cons of Snow Tires:

  • Higher cost compared to tire chains
  • May require professional installation
  • Less effective in extreme conditions such as deep snow and ice

Tire Chains

Tire chains are metal chains that wrap around your tires to provide additional traction in snow and ice. They are particularly useful in extreme conditions, such as driving on steep slopes or unplowed roads.Pros of Tire Chains:

  • Provide exceptional traction in deep snow and ice
  • Lower cost compared to snow tires
  • Suitable for occasional use in extreme conditions

Cons of Tire Chains:

  • Can be challenging to install, especially for inexperienced users
  • Chains cannot be used on dry pavement
  • Chains tend to beat up the fenders and body of your car
  • Require driving at low speeds and can cause damage to the roadway if not used properly

In summary, snow tires are a great long-term solution for winter driving, providing excellent traction and control in a variety of conditions. On the other hand, tire chains are a more affordable option that is ideal for occasional use in extreme conditions. Ultimately, the choice between snow tires and tire chains depends on your specific driving needs, the typical winter conditions in your area, and your budget. It's important to weigh the opportunity costs of each option and consider factors such as cost, ease of installation, and the frequency of extreme winter weather in your area. Regardless of your choice, it's essential to prioritize safety and be prepared for winter driving conditions. Properly inflated tires, regular maintenance, and safe driving practices are also critical for staying safe on the road during the winter months.

 

What Are the Benefits of Regular Transmission Fluid Flushes?

Whether you drive a vehicle with a manual or automatic transmission, it's always a good idea to perform regular fluid flushes to keep your car working as it should. A transmission flush is a process that involves replacing 100% of your old transmission fluid with new fluid and eliminating the dirty, accumulated particles from the entire transmission. At Tim’s Automotive Repair & Sales, we utilize state-of-the-art products and fluid flush technology to ensure your vehicle systems are completely clean and renewed.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Transmission Fluid Flushes?

Extend Transmission Lifespan/Prevent Repairs - Transmission fluid keeps the entire system adequately lubricated. Without clean fluid, the transmission components will wear out faster. Plus, additional problems, such as leaks, may develop down the line and spread the damage. To avoid replacing one of the most expensive parts of your vehicle, you should have your transmission fluid replaced regularly.

Optimize Transmission Performance - Flushing your transmission fluid as a part of your maintenance will ensure the system works smoothly. As a result, you will be able to drive your car and switch gears with zero issues. In other words, it will also improve your safety on the road.

Improve Efficiency - When your transmission fails to work in sync with the engine, your vehicle may struggle to accelerate, stop, or drive properly. Therefore, maintaining your transmission can improve your vehicle’s fuel economy and save you money in the long run.

Many manufacturers recommend transmission flushes as often as every 30,000 to 100,000 miles as transmission fluid will break down over time. The intervals can vary depending on your car, the conditions it operates in, and the type of transmission. If your owner's manual doesn't specify any details about transmission fluid flushes, feel free to consult with one of our technicians.

Signs That Indicate Your Car is Due for a Transmission Flush

  • Dark fluid
  • Dirty or gritty fluid
  • Low or red leaking fluid
  • Check engine light comes on
  • Slipping gears or difficulty shifting gears
  • Grinding or whining noises

Fluid Maintenance In Clackamas, OR

The best way to keep your transmission system, along with your other vehicle systems, in check is to inspect its fluid and keep it clean with fluid exchanges. At Tim’s Automotive Repair & Sales, we are pros at fluid service and flushes. We can perform brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes, power steering flushes, and oil changes to keep your vehicle’s systems cooled, lubricated, and operational.

If you're searching for a trustworthy auto repair shop to perform your transmission fluid flush and all other fluid flushes, look no further than Tim’s Automotive Repair & Sales in Clackamas, OR.