Tires & winter driving

In winter weather, many of us pay extra attention to the batteries in our cars and maybe even to the fuel lines.

But it’s also a good time to pay some extra attention to the tires.

Some national experts say that as soon as it’s cold enough out to see your breath, it’s time to switch to winter tires.

But the Marquette County Sheriff’s Department says that guideline doesn’t work in the U.P.

Capt. David Lemire says that the beginning of winter is a good time to switch.

He also says the tread on all tires needs to be monitored every so often because the Michigan Vehicle Code does give police the ability to cite drivers for having too little tread.

The state guideline is at least two-32nds of an inch, and you can check the tread yourself.

Tread depth guides can be found in many different tire shops and auto parts shops.

A quarter can also serve as a guide.

Put the quarter into the tread upside down, with the ‘heads’ side facing you.

If you can see the very top of George Washington’s head, it’s time for new tires.