Tire traction devices, explained

Here in Orlando, we can get away with all-season tires all year. We don't need to worry about special winter tires or tire traction devices because we never see snow or ice (but here's hoping). However, we know that some drivers find themselves heading north for vacations, especially when the holidays roll around. That's why our Orlando Toyota parts and service specialists have taken the time to explore different tire traction devices and explain them here.

Is your Orlando Toyota ready for out-of-town winter weather? 

What are tire traction devices? These special tools are used in winter weather conditions - namely snow, slush, and ice - to provide your car with better grip and traction. This makes it a lot safer to take on the roads when the weather outside is frightful! Tire traction devices are best-suited to two-wheel drive cars where only two of the wheels are receiving power and the car is more likely to slide out in the snow. However, they can also be helpful on all-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles. Here are the explanations of the main types available for you to put on your Orlando Toyota.

The main types of tire traction devices 

• Tire chains: Tire chains are the most popular AND the most widely available tools to give you more traction when driving in the snow. They're exactly what they sound like; chains that wrap around your tires. The chains help to dig into the snow and give you better traction as well as better acceleration (your tires won't spin out). 

• Tire spikes: Tire spikes are also pretty self-explanatory. They're typically one large piece that's fastened to the front face of your car's tires. They're easier to install than tire chains and also look cleaner and sleeker when on your vehicle. 

• GoClaws: GoClaws are a type of tire spikes, but they hook onto your car differently. They're attached to straps that are fastened to the "corners" of your tires.

• Auto Socks: Auto Socks, on the other hand, are similar to tire chains but they're more like a special textile sleeve that goes over your tires to provide you with more grip and traction. They're a new technology, so they're not overly popular yet. 

• Traction Mats: Traction mats won't help you when you're in motion, but they can come in handy if you find yourself stuck in snow, slush, or mud. These special mats go in front of your car's tires so the tires can grip and subsequently, accelerate. 

Have questions or think you might want to order some tire traction devices? Call Toyota of Orlando today - our techs can help you out! We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.