225 = Width 45 = Profile and 17 = Wheel Diameter
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Looking for the right tires? Start by browsing our full list of tire brands to explore options from everyday touring to premium performance lines. If you want industry-leading winter traction, don’t miss Nokian Tires, known for world-class snow and ice performance. Not sure what fits your vehicle? Use our Tire Size Search tool to instantly see every brand and model available in your exact size.
All-season tires are a compromise for year-round use. Winter tires use a softer rubber compound and special tread that stays flexible in cold temperatures and grips better on snow and ice. If you drive regularly in temperatures below 45°F (7°C), dedicated winter tires will give you shorter stopping distances and more control than all-season tires.
A good rule of thumb is to install winter tires when daytime temperatures stay below about 45°F (7°C). You don’t need snow on the ground for winter tires to help — they are designed to handle cold, dry, wet, slushy and snowy roads better than summer or all-season tires.
It’s not recommended. Winter tires use a softer rubber compound that can wear out quickly in warm weather and may feel less precise in dry conditions. For best performance and tread life, use winter tires only during the cold season and switch back to all-season or summer tires when temperatures warm up.
Yes. Mixing winter tires on just the front or rear axle with non-winter tires can create unpredictable handling and longer stopping distances. For safe, stable braking and traction, winter tires should always be installed as a complete set of four.
Studded winter tires can offer extra grip on hard-packed snow and glare ice, but they are noisy, can wear down roads, and are restricted or banned in some areas. Modern studless winter tires use advanced rubber compounds and tread designs to deliver strong snow and ice traction without metal studs, making them a better choice for many drivers.
Most drivers can expect three to five winter seasons from a set of winter tires, depending on mileage, driving style, alignment, and how well the tires are stored in the off-season. Rotating them regularly and keeping them properly inflated helps maximize tread life.
Many drivers choose a minus-size winter setup, using a slightly smaller wheel diameter with a taller sidewall tire. This can reduce cost and improve ride comfort and snow traction. Just make sure the wheel and tire package matches your vehicle’s bolt pattern, load rating, and clearance.
