When to Switch to Winter Tires in Utah (Herriman Guide) | Mark Miller Subaru South Towne
November 11 2025
When to Switch to Winter Tires in Utah
If you live in Herriman or drive the south valley canyons, winter tires are one of the best upgrades you can make for cold-weather safety. Here’s how to know when it’s time to switch—and why they work so well on Utah’s cold, slick roads.
Why Winter Tires Beat All-Seasons in the Cold
- Cold-temp rubber: Winter compounds stay flexible below freezing for better grip on cold pavement, ice, and packed snow.
- Snow/ice tread design: Deeper grooves and dense siping bite into slush and ice for traction and confident braking.
- AWD + winter tires > AWD alone: Subaru Symmetrical AWD puts power down; winter tires provide the road contact needed to use it.
When Should Herriman Drivers Switch?
- Rule of 45°F: When daytime temps regularly dip below ~45°F, winter compounds outperform all-seasons.
- Before the first big storm: Don’t wait for the snow day; book the swap as the forecast trends colder.
- Elevation changes: South valley to canyons (Suncrest/Traverse, Big/Little Cottonwood) can be 10–20°F colder than Herriman streets.
What to Look For in a Winter Tire
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol for severe-snow certification.
- Studless ice & snow category for Utah’s mix of dry cold, slush, and ice.
- Correct size & load rating matched to your Subaru (Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Ascent, etc.).
Quick FAQs for Herriman & South Valley Drivers
Do I really need winter tires if I have AWD?
AWD helps you go; winter tires help you turn and stop on cold, slick roads. Together they’re far safer than AWD with all-seasons.
Do I replace two tires or all four?
Always mount winter tires on all four wheels for balanced traction and stability.
Will I need a TPMS reset after the swap?
If you have a second wheel set, sensors may need to be registered. Our technicians handle that during installation.
When do I switch back?
Swap back in spring when temps are consistently above ~45–50°F to reduce wear on winter compounds.
Ready to swap? Book your winter tire changeover with Mark Miller Subaru South Towne (convenient to Herriman, Riverton, and South Jordan). Schedule Service or explore Tire Services.
Pro Tips to Get the Most from Winter Tires
- Check pressure monthly: Cold weather lowers PSI; set to driver-door placard when tires are cold.
- Rotate every 5–6k miles: Keeps wear even through the season.
- Store your all-seasons properly: Cool, dry, dark place; bag and label by position.
Questions about sizing or availability for your Subaru? Our tire specialists at South Towne can help you choose the right winter set for Herriman driving.