Driving winter tires in warm weather?

[DoubleT]

Driving my family from Mississauga, Ontario to Washington DC in two weeks. At first the weather was cool but now it's going up to the low twenties (Celsius) in that part of the states. Will I be okay with winter tires or should I change them to regulars and chance hitting snow from here to Buffalo?

 

[PCspeed3]

I would check the weather, if there isint going to be any snow I would suggest putting your summer tires on. You may get a little better gas mileage and wont wear out the winters when you need traction the most.

 

[Katner]

Driving my family from Mississauga, Ontario to Washington DC in two weeks. At first the weather was cool but now it's going up to the low twenties (Celsius) in that part of the states. Will I be okay with winter tires or should I change them to regulars and chance hitting snow from here to Buffalo?

I faced this exact same issue two springs ago, but driving a Mz3 GT. I was heading state-side and wanted my summer tires for several reasons: better fuel economy, preserve winter tread, better performance for the dry American roads, and many more. I ended up not having the time to switch them out and reluctantly went in my winter shoes. Surprisingly the roads ended up being worse down in the states (Salt Lake City and Denver). I would dare say that the winters saved me from a bad accident too. This is why when I chose my winter tires for my Mz5 I insisted on something more than a snow/ice tire. Something with good wear properties, low rolling resistance, and excellent dry-weather performance.

If I was you I'd set up the appointment to get them switched out 2 days before departure. Check the weather meticulously up til the last minute. If there is any chance of freezing temperatures I would cancel and leave the winters on. I don't mind paying an extra $50 in fuel and a few extra bucks in bad tire wear to ensure I'm driving as securely as possible. Just me though. That said, I'm also completely ignorant to weather/road conditions in that area. Maybe they have traction all year 'round.