Making the Most of Your Tires

Purchasing new tires can be a difficult task, and with the winter weather approaching we want you to be as safe as possible. Our service department here at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC is ready to walk you through your next tire purchase, and provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed buying decision. After listening to what our customers were most concerned about, and researching with Consumer Reports we have created some tips to help guide you through process.

Types of tires, and their benefits:

• All-Season Tires – As the name suggests, this type of tire will be adequate for most weather conditions. They provide good traction in dry, wet, and snowy environments. Like a Jack of All Trades, they do not master any specific environment. All-Season Tires are good for mild winter conditions, or after the streets have been cleared.


• Winter Tires – An exceptional choice for snow, sleet, or freezing rain. Winter tires have a mountain and snowflake symbol on the sidewall indicating they meet challenging snow traction criteria according to Consumer Reports. This type of tire will wear down quickly, and do not grip well on dry pavement. Consider this product only if you live in a severe winter climate.


• Summer Tires – Perfect for the dry summer climate, but not the best choice during the winter months. They can lose traction below 45-degrees F, which will cause slipping and sliding.

Many tire manufacturers’ have completed production of their winter tires already. Once these tires have been sold, it will be difficult to find more until next year. Treat yourself to a new set of winter tires this Christmas before they are all gone.


Your #1 Source of Quality Tires & Information in Troy, Missouri,
-Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC

Driving During Bad Weather

Living in the Midwest has brought us from warm weather and sunny skies, to cold winds and snow covered streets in a drastic way this year. With the weather changing so rapidly, we here at Marquitz Buick, Cadillac, GMC want to provide you with some tips for driving in the snow and ice. The best tip available for driving in bad weather is to not drive at all. Although, it is understandable that not driving is the safest way to avoid accidents, it is not realistic and sometimes a trip to the grocery store is necessary.

Driving safely on icy roads

1. Decrease your speed, and leave plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space between your vehicle, and the one in front of you.
2. Brake with slight pressure, and release the brake if you detect slippage.
3. Drive with your headlights on.
4. Remove snow, and any road grime from headlights and windshield.
5. Ice patches can be found in several spots even with temperatures above freezing. Be careful when driving on roads that are not traveled often.

If your wheels skid

1. Take your foot off the gas pedal, and steer in the direction the vehicle is traveling. If the vehicle is sliding right, steer right. You may have to steer left and right a few times in order to get the vehicle completely under control.
2. Most vehicles come standard with Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), and you will need to put steady pressure on the pedal to help reduce the skid.

If you get stuck

1. Always travel with a cell phone in order to call for help if necessary.
2. Do not spin your wheels as this will dig the vehicle in deeper.
3. Try to clear the snow in front of the tires with either a shovel, or by turning the tires from side to side.
4. Place kitty litter, gravel, or salt in front of your tires to help gain traction.
5. Attempt to rock the vehicle back and forth. Check the owner’s manual first before attempting.

More information can be found at Weather.com, with the National Safety Council, the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Washington State Government Information & Services.


Come visit us for more safe driving tips,
Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC
Located in Troy, Missouri

P.S. - Schedule an appointment with our service department online with our Service Appointment Form to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter!