Time to Swap Those Summer Tires
As October rolls in, it’s that time of year again; if you haven’t yet stored your summer tires for the season, consider this your gentle reminder. On Saturday, October 18, Deres Auto cleverly organized a wheel change day, welcoming car owners in for seasonal tire fitting without the need for an appointment.
Sales director Palle Frederiksen noted that the company successfully changed tires for around 130 to 140 vehicles on that bustling Saturday. “If we had seen a bit of snow, we might have easily hit the 200 mark,” he remarked, reflecting on the turnouts amidst nearly summery weather.
Tire Hotel Convenience
Located on Industriveuj in Nuuk, Deres Auto has also introduced a handy “tire hotel.” This service allows customers to leave both summer and winter tires at a secure facility in Pukuffik. When it’s time for the seasonal switch, the team retrieves the right tires, ensuring a seamless experience for customers. “We have streamlined the entire process; it now takes just about 10 minutes per customer to change the tires,” Frederiksen explained, highlighting how the operation has improved over the years.
For many, this event served as a valuable opportunity to prepare their vehicles for the inevitable winter conditions. Despite the day’s unusually pleasant weather, tire changes continued, fostering a jovial atmosphere among motorists.
The Importance of Studded Tires
The preference among drivers leaned heavily towards studded winter tires, a choice echoed by local authorities for safety reasons. “If your winter tires aren’t on yet, you need to get on that,” Frederiksen cautioned. “Driving on summer tires when conditions are icy can be hazardous.”
The local police reinforce this recommendation, advising residents to fit studded tires between October 1 and April 30. While not mandated, studded tires significantly enhance safety during the slippery winter months. If you do choose them, police guidelines dictate that all four tires must be equipped with studs, which should protrude no more than two millimeters when unladen.
As the season shifts, it’s clear that vehicle preparation is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a crucial step in ensuring safety and mobility throughout the harsh winter months. So, if you haven’t swapped out your tires yet, it’s time to take action before the winter chill sets in.