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If the muffler on your car ever malfunctions, you're likely to be assaulted by much louder engine sounds and unpleasant exhaust odors, along with various other car problems. Let's take a look at the most common warning signs of a bad car muffler. It's advisable to have an Acura service right away to have a faulty muffler repaired. If repair isn't possible, you might need to have a new muffler installed instead. more Unusually Loud Engine Roaring As the name implies, the primary purpose of a muffler is to muffle the car's engine sounds. This keeps our cities relatively quiet and free from excessive road noise pollution. The first sign of a malfunctioning muffler is usually dramatically increased engine volume. As most states have strict laws regarding the maximum decibel levels that car engines are permitted to make, it's wise to have a faulty muffler repaired or replaced without delay. Foul-Smelling Exhaust Fumes The catalytic converter does the lion's share of converting noxious exhaust fumes into more benign gases. However, the muffler helps in this task, also filtering some of the fumes. This means when a muffler breaks down, more toxic fumes will be escaping the exhaust than usual. As some of these fumes smell terrible, you're likely to smell the difference from inside the cabin right away. Excessive Build-Up of Rust Over time, mufflers are remarkably susceptible to damage from rust. This is because the constant variations in temperature inside the exhaust system generate a great deal of condensation. This water runs out through the exhaust pipes and usually drips from specially placed holes in the bottom of the muffler. So much moisture naturally starts to generate rust, which can eventually ruin the muffler. Falling Fuel Efficiency Faulty mufflers sometimes become clogged up, restricting the outflow of fumes from the engine. This creates a backup of gases, which can prevent sufficient fresh oxygen from entering the engine's cylinders at the front of the vehicle. As a result, the engine will start to lose power and might even misfire and experience several other problems. Rising Engine Temperature One of the worst potential results of a clogged muffler is an overheating engine. This occurs as exhaust fumes become backed up, and the combustion process becomes interrupted, leading to a general build-up of heat. It's never wise to drive for long if you suspect your engine is overheating. Ask Your Acura Service If You Need a New Muffler Mufflers can sometimes be repaired and granted a few more years of effective use, but often they'll also need to be replaced. Ask a trusted technician at your local dealership to service your entire exhaust system and determine whether or not your muffler needs to go. Have your vehicle's muffler checked and repaired or replaced today at Ed Martin Acura. We're an award-winning local dealership providing top-notch vehicles, deals, financing, and customer service.

Acura is known for its reliable, high-quality cars, but these luxury vehicles also have a practical side. If you're looking for a vehicle with enough cargo capacity for all your adventures, you've got several great options at your local Acura dealership. more Acura MDX The MDX is a three-row SUV with a maximum cargo volume of 95 cubic square feet. In addition, this vehicle can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it perfect for family trips, outdoor adventures, and everyday hauling. The regular MDX model comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine capable of 290 horsepower, but the sporty Type S model is equipped with a 3-liter V-6 that packs 355 horsepower. There are plenty of comfortable features on the MDX including dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats. This vehicle sports a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto capability, a WiFi hotspot, and a wireless smartphone charging pad are all standard. Several driver-assistance features also come standard, including automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist. Acura RDX Whether you're transporting luggage, sporting equipment, or basic boxes, this compact SUV with two rows of seating is an excellent choice. The RDX offers 29.5 cubic feet of rear cargo space, and when the rear seats are folded down, cargo space grows to 79.8 cubic feet. And that's not all. The RDX can also be equipped with roof racks for transporting additional cargo. And this mighty SUV has a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. The RDX is powered by a 272-horsepower turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder. This vehicle is sporty to drive, and it offers plenty of infotainment. The RDX has a 10.2-inch touchscreen and comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability and a WiFi hotspot. An optional tech package adds rear-seat USB ports and a 12-speaker audio system. Acura Integra The Integra, a five-seat sport compact, offers a maximum cargo volume of 24.3 cubic feet, and the vehicle's liftback design makes it easy to load and unload. Regular models of the Integra come with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower, but the Type S model comes with a more powerful 2-liter inline-four with 320 horsepower. The Acura offers appealing amenities like heated sports seats wrapped in faux leather. A host of driver-assistance features come standard, including automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. When you're driving one of our roomy Acuras, you'll never have to worry about whether you'll have enough space to get the job done. The next time you're in the market for a new vehicle, head to Ed Martin Acura.

Most states require cars to undergo a car emissions test every few years. However, things are a little different in Indiana. We'll get into it a little deeper below, and we'll also talk to you about when you should head to the Acura dealer for a checkup on your emissions system. more How Often Do You Need a Car Emissions Test in Indiana? Emissions tests aren't mandatory in the vast majority of Indiana. Only the counties of Lake and Porter have mandatory emissions testing. Those tests must take place every two years on cars that weigh less than 9,000 pounds and that were manufactured after 1975. If you keep your car out-of-state a lot of the time, then it's a good idea to get it tested early, as that may be more convenient for you. For example, if your next test is due in December 2025, but you won't be in Indiana at that time, then you can get the car tested early if you wish. You're allowed to get your car tested as early as October of the year before your next test is due. When You Should Head to Your Acura Dealer to Get Your Emissions System Checked Out Even though emissions testing isn't mandatory in most of Indiana, it's a good idea to keep an eye on your emission system to make sure it's in good condition. If it's not working properly, then your car might break down at a really inconvenient time. There are a couple of indicators that let you know when your emissions system is failing. Emissions Light Your Acura might have a warning on your dash telling you to check the emissions system. Even if your car seems like it's running fine, it's best to go to the dealer ASAP when this light comes on. You'll probably start noticing issues pretty soon, so it's best to get the car checked out before the problems get too bad. Lower Gas Mileage If your fuel level is dropping much faster than expected, then something has likely gone wrong with the car. Your exhaust might not be expelling dangerous gases properly, and that can impact your engine's performance. If your engine has to work harder to keep the car going, then it's going to use more gas. Bad Smells If you can smell gasoline or exhaust fumes in your cabin, even if the smell is subtle, then you have a problem. You need to get to the dealer as soon as you can. Make sure to drive with the windows rolled down, as inhaling these fumes can be deadly. Stop by Ed Martin Acura if your emissions system is faulty. You may not need to get an emissions check if you're not in Lake or Porter, but you should still make sure your emissions system runs smoothly so your car can remain in great shape.

The 2024 Acura Integra is a luxurious compact with sleek lines, a sporty feel, and a powerful 200-horsepower VTEC®️ Turbo engine that can help you get anywhere and everywhere in total comfort and security. With a six-speed manual transmission and 310 pounds of torque, this vehicle is steeped in power. Check out these models at your Acura dealer today. more Stunning and Sophisticated Exterior Although this Acura model is undeniably a robust vehicle in a class of its own, it certainly does not skimp on style. From the signature Diamond Pentagon Grille to the Integra wheel designs in your choice of finishes, everything is bold and statement-making down to the last detail. Plus, you'll find plenty of cargo room in the trunk, with seats that can fold flat for extra space. The vehicle accommodates everything you need for long trips while remaining uncluttered and sleek-looking. Complete Connectivity and Entertainment A center display touchscreen keeps you connected and in control for your entire ride. You can connect your phone, access apps, control the music, or pull up the Acura's robust navigation system. Plus, it comes with Alexa functionality, so you don't even have to take your hands off the wheel. Just activate the voice system, and you're ready to go. Wireless Apple CarPlay®️ integration allows you to tap into and stream all of the music you could want, and the ELS Studio 3D®️ offers high-fidelity, clear surround sound. All of this is right at the touch of a button or the sound of your voice. Safety Features for the Ultimate Drive The Acura's safety features are innovative and well-integrated, working with you to help you keep apprised of everything going on around you. AcuraWatch™️ comes with plenty of features like a collision braking system and adaptive cruise control. There are also pedestrian detection and traffic sign recognition systems to help you and your loved ones stay aware and safe. Interior Features to Fit Your Style Drive this Acura model and be prepared to sit in the lap of luxury the whole way there, thanks to a leather-covered steering wheel and fully adjustable microsuede seats. You'll also have everything you need while you're in the driver's seat, including access to the digital instrument display that indicates your speed, drive mode, and more. This Acura model is bound to deliver the ultimate luxury driving experience, with plenty of safety features and a lot of pick-up for any terrain. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, it's time you checked it out. Visit us at Ed Martin Acura and test drive one of our models today.

The best part about car shopping is getting to test drive a car you want to buy. When you take a brand-new car out for a test drive at your Acura dealership, it's important to pay attention to performance elements, so you buy a car that fits all your needs. more 1. Comfort Assessing the comfort of a new car is about more than just the plushness of the upholstery. Ride comfort can also refer to the softness or bounciness of the suspension. A comfortable car will practically glide over the road with a cloud-like feel, even over bumps and potholes. 2. Quietness The quietness of the cabin is also important, particularly if you're an audiophile. When the windows are up, road noise pollution in a new car should be low. 3. Acceleration A brand-new Acura is going to have highly responsive acceleration. A plucky engine will meet your acceleration demands when you pull into traffic, even when you are accelerating from a complete stop. 4. Braking Good brakes on a new car will respond at the tap of your foot, but the brake response shouldn't feel abrupt or harsh. The best place to assess the brakes is on a suburban road with plenty of stop signs. Make sure you test forceful braking, soft braking, and rolling braking. 5. Handling Finally, you will also want to assess how easy it is to handle the car. With power steering and other advanced steering systems, it should be easy to direct a car on the road. If the steering feel doesn't match your driving habits, you may want to consider a different vehicle. How Long Should You Test Drive a Car? As a rule of thumb, it's a good idea to test drive a potential vehicle for at least 30 minutes. A half-hour usually gives you enough time to experience driving the car in different traffic flows and road settings. It's also a good idea to drive on familiar roads and plan your own route. Should You Test Drive Multiple Models at Your Acura Dealership? While you might have your heart set on a specific Acura model, it's still a good idea to broaden your horizons when you are at your local dealership. For drivers who do their car shopping online, seeing a car in person can be different from seeing a car on a webpage. You may end up seeing a model in person that you previously dismissed. Plus, by test-driving different models, you will have a better idea of how well the handling of your preferred model meshes with your driving style. A new car is always going to be fun to drive, especially if you've been driving an older vehicle for a while. However, when you are test-driving a new Acura, it's important to pay attention to factors like comfort and handling. Contact Ed Martin Acura to schedule a test drive today.

The 2023 Acura TLX is the newest iteration of Acura's popular luxury sport sedan. With quite a kick under the hood and a whole host of luxury options, the 2023 TLX has a lot to offer, so read on to see why you should get in touch with your Acura dealer today! more Basics About the 2023 Acura TLX The 2023 TLX is a light and nimble sports car that is ideal for city and suburban driving. This is the second update to the redesign that was introduced to the line in 2021, and you can see the work that's gone into crafting both the interior and exterior of the TLX. The interior is molded with luxury and comfort in mind and is loaded with modern tech that makes it easier to just get in your car and go. The exterior has a sporty appearance, and that's backed up by the two engine options that provide a robust and responsive feel behind the wheel. Acura Dealers Love What's New in the 2023 TLX Engine There are two powerful engines that you can choose from with the 2023 TLX's trim levels. The four-cylinder VTEC Turbo provides 272 horsepower and comes in both AWD and FWD packages. Alternatively, you can opt for the 3L Turbo V6 engine that provides much more power in an AWD package, which is super responsive when accelerating at 355 horsepower and can take advantage of Acura's Sport+ mode for increased performance on the road. Transmission Both engines come with a ten-speed automatic transmission that shifts gears smoothly, giving you that snappy feel that Acura is so well known for. Interior All TLX models come standard with leather seats, 60/40-fold down rear seats, and heated power front seats. There are 93.4 cubic feet of space within the cabin, and an additional 13.5 cubic feet of storage in the trunk, which is more than enough to transport golf and ski bags, documents from work, or other mid-sized items as you travel. A neat option in all but the basic level TLX trims is the GPS-linked climate control, which ensures that your vehicle will automatically adjust the interior's temperature to match the weather outside. Exterior All models come standard with LED headlights and taillights, a power moonroof, and heated side mirrors with turning signals built in. Notably, the TLX has its own unique tires and wheel design, which gives the car a bit of extra flair. Upgrades are available for the grille, exhaust, and rear diffusers. Are you looking to upgrade to a new luxury car? The 2023 TLX may be the right choice for you. Contact us at Ed Martin Acura today to schedule your test drive as soon as possible!

The 2023 Acura RDX is making a splash in the market and catching the attention of drivers everywhere. With its plush interior comfort, stellar fuel economy, adventurous ride, and competitive price tag, it certainly earns the popularity it has obtained. As one of the best Acura dealer locations in the Indianapolis area, we are thrilled to offer this luxury SUV to drivers like you. more 1. It Packs a Mean Punch The RDX looks impressive at first glance, but the power under the hood still manages to pleasantly surprise drivers. This is thanks to the two-liter Turbo Aluminum-Alloy four-cylinder Mono-scroll engine. It grants the SUV 272 horsepower and 280 pound-per-feet of torque. Its ten-speed automatic transmission allows it to reach from 0-60 MPH in just over six seconds. 2. The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) This program is responsible for making the RDX such a thrill to drive. Rather than sticking with the standard gears, Acura created four driving modes to cover different terrains and road conditions. These modes can be selected by simply turning the IDS knob located on the center console display screen, making the program extremely user-friendly and easy to toggle. The four modes are Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The Snow mode is great for slippery roads where traction is lacking. When selected, your Acura will control the torque going to each individual wheel to keep things even. The Comfort mode expertly balances its drive between smooth luxury and responsive handling. The Sport mode reduces power steering for added control and heightens the throttle's responses to driver input. The Sport+ mode is the thrill-seeker's favorite. It keeps the Sport mode active but offers more shifting power and aggression. 3. Safety Matters to Acura This year's RDX is jam-packed with top safety features. Just a few of our AcuraWatch Safety System favorites are the Traffic Sign Recognition software, the Agile Handling Assist, and the Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow. Thanks to Collision Mitigation, Lane Keeping, Rear Cross-Traffic Monitor, and Blind Spot Information programs, your Acura employs sensors on all sides of your SUV for 360 degrees of protection. Ready To Buy? Your Top Acura Dealer Is Here for You At our dealership, it's important for us to stand out to buyers looking for high-quality Acura rides at great prices. With our ten Acura Precision Team awards, we believe we have accomplished this. Our top priority is you, and we honor that by not only ensuring your initial satisfaction but by continuing to follow up and take care of you for the entirety of your Acura's lifespan. Stop by and visit us today here at Ed Martin Acura to check out the RDX in person. You can take it for a test drive, talk to our financing department, and get the purchase started with the help of our talented sales team.

After a lengthy hiatus, the iconic Acura Integra has returned with a gorgeous new look and a host of advanced technology. The compact sedan improves on the remarkable handling that helped make it famous and features the top-notch quality that you'd expect from an Acura. Here's your first look at the new 2023 model, available at your local Acura dealer! more Powertrain With its 200-horsepower 1.5L VTEC turbo inline-4, the Integra delivers quick acceleration. Power is distributed through a continuously variable transmission, which stays engaging through the use of steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Purists will want to opt for the A-Spec with Technology trim's 6-speed manual and its short throws. Also available is a lightweight single-mass flywheel for quicker engine revs and a helical limited-slip differential that provides extra traction. Chassis Though the Integra's powerful and efficient engine makes it a great commuter, it's also an adept performer when navigating through windy roads. An available adaptive damper system can complement its well-tuned MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. This system enhances your driving enjoyment by providing a smoother ride and sharper handling. Base model Integras sit on beautiful 17-inch silver aluminum-alloy wheels, while those in A-Spec trim get larger 18-inch wheels in the Shark Gray finish. 12.3-inch ventilated front brakes and 11.1-inch solid rear brakes have no problem bringing the car to a quick stop. Interior The Integra's cabin boasts a stylish, sporty design with its unique mesh air vents, silver trim, and standard leatherette-trim seats. The deeply bolstered, heated front sport seats offer 12-way power adjustability and lumbar support. A-Spec models come with microsuede inserts in its seats to add even more grip. The rear seating's 37.4 inches of legroom allows passengers to stretch out and enjoy a comfortable ride. Additional amenities include available dual-zone automatic climate control and ambient LED lighting. Infotainment Providing access to a variety of entertaining and useful apps are standard 7-inch and optional 9-inch infotainment touchscreen displays. All models include support for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, Bluetooth streaming audio, and Siri Eyes Free. Available Alexa Built-In allows you to control the volume or check the weather with easy voice commands. The Integra also offers a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot for internet access while on the go. One of the most impressive listening experiences is yours to enjoy when you select the ELS Studio 3D audio system. Its 16 high-fidelity surround sound speakers and cargo-integrated subwoofer have been tuned by Elliot Scheiner, a multiple Grammy Award-winning producer and sound engineer. The latest iteration of Acura's Integra is a joy to drive and boasts tons of style and comfort. Get in touch with Ed Martin Acura today and schedule your test drive!

Your Acura's alternator keeps the battery charged and allows you to use all those great electronic accessories in your MDX, Integra, or TLX. A problem with your alternator will cause numerous issues that require expert Acura repair from the qualified technicians at your Acura dealership. The following signs will warn you when to get an alternator repair before your headlights dim, your accessories fail, and you struggle to start your car. more 1. The Battery Light Is On When the battery light on your dashboard is on, there's a problem with your car's electrical system. An alternator not providing the necessary voltage will trigger the battery warning light. 2. Your Headlights Are Dim and Flicker A failing alternator will not meet your car's electrical needs and generate enough power to keep the lights on consistently. You will notice that your dashboard lights are dimmer, and your headlights flicker or grow from bright to dim as you accelerate. 3. The Accessories Are Acting Up When your car's alternator is not producing enough electricity, the computer will cut the power to non-vital accessories first, and you will notice several issues at once. Your windshield wipers and windows will move slower, the sunroof will get stuck, and the heated seats might not work. 4. There Are Loose, Broken, or Frayed Cables and Wires Loose, broken, or frayed wires and cables will prevent or reduce the flow of electricity. The alternator will produce more energy and send too much electricity through the wires, causing the wires to heat up. 5. You Smell Hot Electrical Wires or Burning Rubber An overworked alternator will give off an electrical smell. Because the belt is under constant tension and close to the engine, it causes a scent comparable to that of burning rubber when it wears out. 6. You Hear Whining, Growling, and Rattling Noises A failing alternator will make strange noises. The noises could come from a tight or misaligned belt rubbing against the side of the pulley. In the worst cases, the alternator can damage your engine and make rattling noises. Still, because it's nearly impossible to keep your car going with a malfunctioning alternator, you'll get it fixed long before it causes severe damage. 7. You Struggle To Start Your Car Your vehicle starts from power stored in the battery. When it's hard to start your car and keep it running, it could be a problem with the alternator not charging the battery. When there's not enough power from the alternator to keep the engine going, you'll struggle to start your car, and it will stall. 8. The Battery Is Weak A failing alternator will not properly charge the battery while the engine is running. If your car dies after a jump start, it's most likely a failing alternator not providing enough power to the battery and not the battery itself. If your car has any of the above problems, call Ed Martin Acura today to schedule an appointment. The qualified Acura technicians will sort out your vehicle's electrical problems and ensure that your alternator works perfectly.

The catalytic converter on your Acura reduces pollution. It does this by converting dangerous chemicals from combustion into less harmful ones. The conversion process uses heat, high pressure, and chemical reactions. Over time the heat and pressure can damage the converter, or it can weaken due to age. As your Acura dealer, we'd like you to know a few signs that you need to visit us for a repair or replacement converter. more Black Exhaust Smoke Black smoke from the tailpipe is a sign that your converter is damaged and may need replacement. Black smoke has a toxic stench due to the large amounts of carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and other dangerous chemicals. Under normal conditions, these chemicals are rendered harmless by your converter. The lack of conversion could be caused by a faulty oxygen sensor supplying incorrect information, a fuel-rich engine, or failed converter. In all these cases, the toxic gases from combustion forced out of the engine will cause your car to fail an emissions test. These gases will also cause long-term damage to your engine. Our technicians will find the cause of the problem and repair it. Your Engine Starts and Then Dies Starting problems are usually caused by a problem with the battery, the alternator, or the starter motor. If your engine starts and then dies very quickly, this usually means your converter is blocked. As the converter works, carbon can build up inside it. As time passes, this carbon buildup can block the exit of the converter and prevent exhaust gases from escaping. The exhaust gases that can't escape will be drawn back into your engine. These gases increase the pressure in the engine and also increase the fuel-to-air ratio. This combination of events shuts down the combustion process and causes your engine to stop. We'll examine your converter and clear any blockages we find. Once the converter is unblocked, your engine will work normally again. Rattling Noises A rattling noise from under your car is a sign that something is loose. It could be one of the brackets that supports the exhaust has failed, or your converter may be damaged. If the rattling continues when you're driving at speed, the most likely cause is a damaged converter. The rattling noise is made by broken pieces of the honeycomb inside the converter. Converters have a honeycomb interior to maximize gas conversion. The heat and pressure can create cracks in the honeycomb. This will cause pieces to break off and rattle as your car moves. We can't repair this damage, but we can replace your converter. If you suspect a converter problem, call us right away at Ed Martin Acura. Image courtesy of Andrea Piacquadio via Pexels

Your car's brakes must always be in top working order to be safe on the road. Below are ways to tell if your Acura needs to get to a brake repair from the qualified technicians at your Acura dealer. Does Your Acura Need a Brake Repair From Your Acura Dealer? more Visible Wear You can check if your brake pads are thin by performing a visual inspection. Look through the wheel spokes, and if the brake pads are less than a quarter-inch thick, you need to ask your Acura technician to replace the pads. High Pitched Screeching Sounds When you step on the brake and hear high-pitched screeching sounds, the small pieces of metal called wear indicator bars built into your brake pads warning you that the pads are worn down. When you hear the sound, the pads are thin and need to be replaced. Awful Grinding Noises When the brake pads wear down, and you don't get them replaced in time, you will begin to hear horrible grinding noises. Your brake pads are now worn down completely, and the grinding noises are from the metal plate scraping against the rotor. The scraping will damage the rotors and even melt the metal, causing your brakes to stick. Sticking brakes are dangerous, and you will need to get repairs done as soon as possible. Glazed Rotors Excessive and hard braking, especially at high speeds, cause the metal to heat up, warping and damaging the rotors. If you notice blue marks or dark rings on the rotors, you will have to replace them. Vibrating Brake Pedal Excessive and hard braking is not the only cause of warped rotors. When your rotors are old and wearing thin, they will also warp. When you feel vibrations through your brake pedal, it's a sign that the rotors are warped and damaged and need to be replaced. Unresponsive and Insensitive Brakes If your brakes are unresponsive and it feels if your car takes longer to come to a stop, it could be due to thin brake pads, a brake fluid leak, or an air leak in the brake hose. Ask your Acura technician to perform a brake system inspection. Brake Fluid Leaks Your car leaks fluid when you see tiny puddles on the ground under your vehicle. If the spots look like oil but are not as slick, it's brake fluid. Ask your Acura technician to repair the leak as soon as possible. Your Car Is Pulling to the Side When your car pulls to the left or right when braking, it could be due to contaminated brake fluid or unevenly worn brake linings. Your Acura technician will have to either replace the brake fluid or adjust the brake linings to eliminate the problem. Sensitive Brakes and Jerking You will have to get the brake fluid, or the rotors replaced if your car jerks to a halt when you step on the brake pedal. The brake fluid is either contaminated or old and dirty, and the rotors are worn unevenly. Either way, your Acura technician will sort out the problem in no time at all. Ensure your safety on the road and ask your Acura technician to inspect your brakes as soon as possible when you notice the issues mentioned above. Contact Ed Martin Acura today for a thorough brake system service performed by qualified Acura technicians to ensure that your brakes are working perfectly. image courtesy of pexels.com

When winter's approaching, drivers begin to think about how to prepare for slippery roads and poor visibility. There are various ways to winterize your vehicle, the most important of which is by switching to winter tires. Read on to learn if you should head to your local Acura dealer for a fresh set of snow tires this winter. Does Your Acura Need Winter Tires? more Winter Versus Summer Tires Summer tires are designed for road surfaces that are easy to grip and often hot. The rubber of summer tires is designed to handle problems related to heat. The rubber of summer tires is stiff and of a material that can resist scorching hot asphalt and tarmac without losing shape. The treads of summer tires are not made to scoop down into the snow and stay close to the road. As such, they're utterly unsuited to patches of road covered in slush, packed snow, or black ice. For these reasons, it's very unwise to use summer tires during a snowy winter. Winter Versus All-Season Tires All-season tires are better than summer tires for dealing with a bit of light snow. But they cannot compete with snow tires when it comes to handling real wintry, icy weather. Even if your all-season tires have "M+S" printed on the side, indicating they're suitable for mud and snow, they're still nowhere near as good as tires engineered entirely for winter. When deciding which to use, it really depends on how bad winters get in your neck of the woods. If you only see the occasional day or two of snow, and you very rarely see ice-slicked roads, then all-season tires might be sufficient. But if your local winters bring many inches of snow and frequent ice, then snow tires would be far more sensible. Let's take a look at what makes these specialist tires so good at their job. Hydrophilic Rubber The special kind of rubber used in snow tires is more flexible, allowing a broader surface area to flatten and grip the road surface. This does a great deal to boost your traction. Higher Void-To-Lug Ratio The gaps between tire treads, otherwise known as the voids between lugs, is much greater with tires designed for winter. These tires have a higher void-to-lug ratio. This allows snow to be scooped up into the voids and thrown out behind the wheel as you drive. As a result, your wheels stay closer to the road surface underneath the snow, rather than riding on top of packed snow, which is what leads to skids. Sharper Lug Edges The shape of the treads is also designed differently on snow tires. The treads have irregular patterns and sharp edges specially designed to help them dig into snow and ice more easily. Again, this helps a great deal with traction. Get Custom Sipes at Your Local Acura Dealer Sipes are little zig-zagging grooves carved into the treads, which further enhance grip. Snow tires usually have thousands of sipes on each wheel, whereas ordinary tires have none at all. You can, however, get sipes custom carved into summer tires by a technician at your local dealership. If you'd like a premium quality set of snow tires put on your car, head down to Ed Martin Acura. We're a leading local dealership and an 8-time winner of the Acura Precision Team Award, which is an award determined primarily by customer satisfaction. image courtesy of pexels.com