Choosing the Right Tires for Western New York Winters (Along with Every Other Season)

January 23, 2026

The first time your car slides on an early winter morning, your stomach drops. 

It might be on I-90 near Cheektowaga. It might be a side street in Rochester before the plows are out. Either way, that brief loss of control is usually when Western New York drivers start asking the same question: 


Do I have the right tires for this? 

In Western New York, tire choice isn’t a technical detail, it’s an important safety decision. Lake-effect snow, rapid temperature swings, road salt, and potholes create conditions that demand more from your tires than most parts of the country. 

Here’s how to make a smart, confident decision for winter, and every other season, without panic or pressure, based on decades of local experience helping Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse drivers stay safe on the road. 


Why Western New York Is Harder on Tires Than You Think 

Buffalo averages over 95 inches of snow per year. Syracuse often exceeds 120 inches. Rochester sees less total snowfall, but more frequent freeze-thaw cycles that turn roads slick and unpredictable. 

Lake-effect snow is different from typical snowfall. It’s heavier, wetter, and often arrives fast, sometimes dumping inches in under an hour. Roads can go from clear to treacherous between exits. 

Add in: 

  • Frequent temperatures hovering just above and below freezing 
  • Heavy road salt exposure 
  • Potholes and uneven pavement 

And suddenly, “good enough” tires aren’t good enough anymore. 


Understanding Tire Types: What’s the Difference?

 

All-Season Tires 

All-season tires come standard on most vehicles. They’re designed to perform acceptably in a wide range of conditions but not excel in extremes. 


What they’re good at: 

  • Mild winters 
  • Spring, summer, and fall driving 
  • Budget-friendly convenience 


Where they fall short: 

  • Cold temperatures below 45°F 
  • Packed snow and ice 
  • Slush and sudden lake-effect storms 

In our experience fitting Western New York vehicles, all-season tires often become the weak link long before drivers realize it. 

 

Winter Tires (Often Called Snow Tires) 

“Snow tires” and “winter tires” are the same thing and they’re built specifically for cold weather. 

What makes them different: 

  • Rubber compounds that stay flexible in freezing temperatures 
  • Aggressive tread patterns that grip snow and slush 
  • Thousands of tiny sipes that bite into ice 

Once temperatures drop below 45°F, winter tires significantly outperform all-seasons, even on dry pavement. 

A Cheektowaga customer came in last November after sliding through an intersection on worn all-seasons. After switching to winter tires, they told us the difference felt “night and day” on the same roads. 

 

All-Weather Tires: The Middle Ground 

All-weather tires are a newer category. They carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating, meaning they meet winter traction standards, but they can stay on year-round. 

Best for drivers who: 

  • Want one set of tires 
  • Drive mostly plowed roads 
  • Prefer convenience over maximum winter grip 

They’re a compromise, not a replacement, for dedicated winter tires, but for some Western New York drivers, they make practical sense. 

 

Summer Tires 

Summer tires are designed for warm weather performance and should never be used in winter conditions. 

Even light snow or cold temperatures can drastically reduce traction. 


The Science Behind Winter Tires (Without the Jargon) 

Winter tires work because of two main factors: 

  1. Rubber Chemistry 
    Winter compounds stay soft in cold temperatures. All-season rubber hardens as it gets colder, reducing grip. 
  2. Tread Design 
    Deeper grooves and sipes channel snow, slush, and water away from the tire, creating friction instead of sliding. 

That’s why winter tires help you stop, turn, and accelerate, not just “go.” 

 

The 45°F Rule: When All-Season Tires Stop Performing 

Many drivers wait for the first snowfall to think about tire changes. That’s usually too late. 

Once temperatures consistently dip below 45°F, all-season tires begin losing effectiveness, even on dry roads. 

In Western New York, that temperature shift often happens in late October or early November, well before major snowfall. 

 

Tread Depth Reality Check: Are Your Tires Already Worn Out? 

Tread depth matters more in winter than any other season. 

The Penny Test 

  • Insert a penny head-first into the tread 
  • If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tires are likely worn 

The Quarter Test (Better for Winter) 

  • Insert a quarter 
  • If the tread doesn’t reach Washington’s head, winter performance will be compromised 

For winter driving, we typically recommend at least 6/32" of tread depth. 

 

AWD and 4WD Myths: Tires Still Matter 

All-wheel drive helps you go.
It does not help you stop. 

We regularly see AWD SUVs slide through intersections because they’re running worn or inappropriate tires. Traction starts and ends where rubber meets the road. 

 

Studded Tires in New York: Are They Legal? 

Studded tires are legal in New York State from October 16 through April 30. 

They can make sense for: 

  • Rural routes 
  • Steep hills 
  • Frequent ice exposure 

For most city and suburban drivers, modern winter tires provide excellent grip without studs. 

 

Matching Tires to Your Vehicle Type 

  • Sedans: Winter tires dramatically improve stopping distance and control 
  • SUVs/Crossovers: Extra weight helps, but proper tires are still essential 
  • Trucks: Rear traction improves significantly with winter tires 
  • AWD Vehicles: Benefit just as much, if not more, from winter-specific rubber 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, which is why vehicle type and driving habits matter. 

 

When Should You Switch Your Tires? 

In Western New York, we typically recommend switching: 

  • Late October to mid-November 
  • Before lake-effect snow becomes consistent 
  • Before appointment availability tightens 

Waiting until the first storm often means longer waits and limited inventory. 

 

Tire Storage: What to Do with Your Off-Season Set 

If you don’t have space at home, tire storage programs keep your off-season set: 

  • Clean 
  • Properly stored 
  • Ready for the next swap 

It also extends tire life by protecting them from temperature swings and moisture. 

 

Cost Comparison: Tires vs. Accidents 

A typical winter tire investment: 

  • Tires, mounting, and balancing 
  • Often comparable to an insurance deductible 

An accident costs more than money, time, stress, and safety. 

In our experience, winter tires often pay for themselves by preventing just one close call. 

 

How Long Do Winter Tires Last? 

With proper rotation and storage: 

  • Winter tires typically last 3–5 seasons 
  • Mileage depends on driving habits and conditions 

Running them only during cold months preserves tread and value. 

 

Used Tires: When They Make Sense (And When They Don’t) 

Used winter tires can work if: 

  • Tread depth is sufficient 
  • Rubber isn’t hardened from age 
  • Tire history is known 

They don’t make sense when safety or longevity is compromised. Honest evaluation matters. 

 

Why Western New York Drivers Trust Dunn Tire 

For decades, Dunn Tire has helped local drivers navigate Western New York winters with confidence, not pressure. 

What sets us apart: 

  • Certified technicians who explain options in plain English 
  • Honest assessments of what you need 
  • Extensive inventory across all tire categories 
  • Locations throughout Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and surrounding communities 
  • Tire storage and seasonal swap services 
  • Monday–Saturday availability 

We’ll look at your vehicle, driving habits, and budget, and recommend what makes sense for you. 

 

Get Peace of Mind Before the First Snowfall 

If you’re questioning whether your current tires are ready, or want expert guidance before winter hits, we’re here to help. 


Stop by any Dunn Tire location for a free tire consultation. 
No pressure. Just honest advice from people who drive these roads too. 

Because in Western New York, the right tires don’t just make winter easier, they make it safer. 

Dashboard Warning Lights: What Western New York Drivers Need to Know

December 2, 2025
It always happens at the worst moment. You’re driving down the 90 in Buffalo, heading across Rochester for your morning commute, or navigating Syracuse’s lake-effect flurries, and suddenly a dashboard warning light pops on. Your stomach drops. You start wondering: Is this serious? Can I make it home? Should I pull over now? You’re not alone. Every day, Western New York drivers see unexpected warning lights and search for quick answers. The key is understanding what each light means and knowing when you need immediate help versus when you can safely continue driving. That’s exactly where Dunn Tire comes in. With decades of experience, ASE-certified technicians, and multiple locations from Buffalo to Syracuse, we deliver the facts, no panic, no guessing. Understanding Dashboard Light Colors Before diving into specific lights, the color tells you a lot: Red Lights = Stop safely right away. Yellow/Orange Lights = Have it checked soon. Blue/Green Lights = Informational only. This universal color-coding system helps drivers quickly understand severity, especially in unpredictable Western New York weather. Check Engine Light: The Most Common (and Most Misunderstood) Light No light causes more confusion for Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse drivers than the check engine light (CEL). It can indicate hundreds of different problems, some minor, some serious. Why It Happens Common triggers include: Loose or faulty gas cap Failing ignition coil or spark plug Sensor malfunction Emissions-related issues Air/fuel ratio irregularities The “Loose Gas Cap” Phenomenon in WNY Rapid temperature swings, especially in Buffalo and Syracuse, cause gas caps to expand and contract. This often triggers the CEL even when nothing serious is wrong. Many drivers learn this the hard way after frost followed by sudden warm-ups. When It’s Serious Flashing CEL = pull over safely. Steady CEL = schedule diagnostics soon. What We Typically Find In our decades serving Western New York, we see more CELs caused by simple issues, gas caps, misfires, failing sensors, than catastrophic failures. Oil Pressure Warning: The Red Light You Cannot Ignore If any light deserves immediate attention, it’s the oil pressure light. This isn’t about “needing an oil change.” It means your engine may not be getting proper lubrication. Common Causes Failing oil pump Critically low oil level Blocked oil passages Major internal wear Why WNY Drivers See This Cold starts in Buffalo winters thicken oil, and neglected engines suffer most. If this red light appears, pull over immediately and shut off the engine. You’ll save yourself from potentially catastrophic damage. Battery / Charging System Light: Alternator Trouble Ahead This light looks like a battery but signals charging issues, often caused by a failing alternator. Typical Causes Alternator failure Battery at end of life Slipping or broken belt Corroded electrical connections WNY Weather’s Role Frigid Buffalo and Rochester mornings strain batteries. Many drivers first see this light during the season’s cold snap when older batteries give out. Brake System Warning: Don’t Risk Winter Roads The brake system light can indicate something as simple as the parking brake being on, or something critically dangerous. Potential Issues Low brake fluid Worn brake pads Failing master cylinder ABS malfunctions With snow, ice, and road salt across Western New York, reliable brakes are essential. If the light is red, treat it as an emergency. TPMS Light: Tire Pressure and Western New York Weather Western New York’s drastic temperature swings make the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light extremely common. Seasonal Pattern First cold front of the year? Buffalo drivers see widespread TPMS alerts. Rapid freeze-thaw cycles drop pressure by several PSI overnight. What We Typically Find Pressures 5–10 PSI lower after cold nights Slow leaks from winter pothole damage Aging TPMS sensors in older vehicles A TPMS light isn’t an immediate emergency, but low tire pressure affects handling, traction, and tire life, especially in snow and slush. Coolant Temperature Warning: Heat, Cold, and Overheating This light means your engine is either overheating or running too cool. Why It Happens Low coolant Thermostat failure Cooling system leaks Faulty water pump WNY Weather Impact Summer heat in Buffalo and Rochester strains cooling systems. Subzero winter temperatures make thermostats and coolant blend ratios critical. If the light is red, pull over, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool, never open the radiator cap when hot. ABS Warning Light: Reduced Safety in Snow & Ice The ABS light means your anti-lock braking system is compromised. Your brakes still work, but ABS protection may be offline. Causes Faulty wheel speed sensor Wiring corrosion (common with road salt) Failing ABS module Given Western New York’s icy roads and steep braking demands, this is a light you shouldn’t ignore for long. When to Pull Over vs. When to Keep Driving Pull Over Immediately (Red Lights) Oil pressure Coolant temperature (red) Brake system (red) Flashing check engine Get It Checked Soon (Yellow/Orange Lights) Steady check engine TPMS ABS Battery/charging system What Happens During a Professional Diagnostic Check At Dunn Tire, a diagnostic isn’t just plugging in a cheap code reader. Our ASE-certified technicians use professional-grade tools capable of: Reading manufacturer-specific data Accessing live engine and sensor values Running system tests Capturing freeze-frame data Locating the root cause, not just the code This is why DIY scanners and free parts-store code checks often miss critical information. Diagnostics vs. Guessing: The Real Cost Difference Many Western New York drivers try replacing random parts to “fix” warning lights, often wasting money. Proper diagnostics: Prevent unnecessary part replacements Identify the exact failure Save time and frustration Ensure safety A professional diagnostic is nearly always cheaper than guessing. Seasonal Warning Light Patterns in Western New York Because of our region’s unique climate, we see consistent yearly patterns: Winter TPMS lights everywhere Weak battery warnings ABS sensor corrosion from salt Spring Alternator and belt issues from moisture Brake system warnings after rough snow seasons Summer Coolant overheating Air conditioning–related electrical faults Fall Tire pressure fluctuations Check engine lights due to condensation and temperature swings In our decades serving Western New York, we’ve seen these seasonal patterns repeat year after year. Immediate Checks You Can Safely Do Yourself Ensure the gas cap clicks tightly Check coolant level only when the engine is cool Check tire pressure with a gauge Listen for unusual sounds Avoid long trips until the cause is identified Simple steps, but extremely effective. Why Western New York Drivers Trust Dunn Tire Dunn Tire is known throughout Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and surrounding areas for: ASE-certified technicians Professional diagnostic equipment Clear, plain-English explanations Honest recommendations Transparent diagnostic pricing Monday–Saturday availability Multiple convenient locations We’re your local experts who know Western New York weather, and how it affects your car, better than anyone. Schedule Your Diagnostic Today If a warning light just appeared, don’t panic. And don’t guess. Let the experts at Dunn Tire figure out exactly what’s going on. Call or schedule your diagnostic appointment today. Fast answers. Honest recommendations. Certified expertise. Your trusted Western New York diagnostic team is here Monday–Saturday to help you drive safely and confidently, no matter what the weather brings.

Winter Weather Driving: Essential Car Care & Safety Tips for Buffalo, Rochester, Erie & Richmond

October 9, 2025
Life in the Snowbelt If you live in Buffalo, Rochester, Erie, or Richmond, winter isn’t just a snowy season, it’s a challenge. Lake-effect snowstorms sweep across Buffalo with little warning, Rochester drivers face icy winds off Lake Ontario, Erie residents know the misery of slush that refreezes overnight, and Richmond commuters dread freezing rain that turns highways into invisible skating rinks. Every winter, drivers deal with the same problems: · Dead batteries that refuse to crank on frigid mornings. · Tires spinning helplessly in snowdrifts. · Brake failures from salt corrosion. · Fender-benders caused by black ice at intersections. But here’s the truth: most of these headaches can be prevented when the right steps are taken . With the proper maintenance, preparation, and driving strategies, you can stay safe, protect your car, and avoid costly breakdowns during the winter season. At Dunn Tire , we’ve helped thousands of snowbelt drivers prepare for harsh winters. This guide will give you not just checklists, but real-world stories, explanations, and actionable advice so you’re confident no matter what the forecast says.