I'm in NY and the weather is starting to get below 45 in the mornings. I was wondering if you guys think its a good idea put winter tires on now or wait for signs of snow. Will driving around on a 60 degree day prematurely wear snow tires?

I'm currently riding on Goodyear Eagle RS-A's and I am not too thrilled with them.

 

I would have them on standby in the garage (if you have a set of winter wheels too) and put them on when the weather gets more severe. Continually check the forecast in the evenings so you're prepared and not having to swap your wheels before work.

 

I put my winter wheels and tires on this past weekend. Highs were forecast to be (and were) pretty much in the 40s here in Chicago all last week and we did have some rain as well. IMO those are the conditions where winter tires can begin to make a difference compared to all season (or of course summer) tires which start to harden and lose some traction when the temps are in the 40s and lower. I don't think driving on them for a few days when temps are in the 60s will make much of a difference in regards to wear. I would rather have them on the car and not need them than the other way around.

Edit: I share your dislike for the RSAs. I've had them on other cars (where they were standard) and they are awful.

 

So I bit the bullet and just put them on, I can't believe how much better blizzaks feel than those RS-A's...

It might have something to do with the fact that they are the 18" winter package from TireRack.

 

I live in NY too and I just got all weather tires they should do the job. Usually our streets get plowed with the hour so shouldnt be a problem.

 

I don't have awd so I feel better having winter tires on for snowy or icy conditions. Don't want to get caught by surprise

 

I'm not putting on my winter tires till we get closer to Thanksgiving. Even though it's cold in the morning in the afternoon it's over 50 degree. I just take it easy in the morning until my summer tires warm up. They will warm up, but with temperatures barely over 40 it will take them a little longer than usual.

 

I am originally from RI (thus my disdain for all things NY) and I feel for you guys. I currently live in CA (since 1991) and boy is it sweet not having to worry about weather. Summer tires, please!

 

Average time to run snows for most the country is Thanksgiving to tax season (April). I'll usually take my all seasons off when temps are consistently below 40 deg. Running snows a couple days in the 50's is fine, but it's not best to do that for weeks at a time. Usually by T-giving the days below 40 deg outweigh the ones 45 and above.