SimpleTire and Car Talk Unite for Fall Car Care Month — Helping Drivers “Tread Wisely into Winter”
As cooler temperatures roll in and daylight hours start shrinking, Tire & Car many drivers find themselves thinking ahead to holiday travel and the upcoming winter season. But before the snow piles up and windshields turn to ice, automotive experts are urging drivers to get a head start on vehicle preparation. This year, leading online tire retailer SimpleTire has once again partnered with Car Talk, one of the most trusted voices in the automotive space, to help motorists gear up during the Car Care Council’s Fall Car Care Month this October.
The goal? To make winter prep less intimidating, more accessible, and even a little fun.
This annual collaboration between SimpleTire and Car Talk aims to strike the perfect balance between practical advice and lighthearted reminders. With informative articles, checklists, videos, and special offers, the campaign empowers drivers to stay safe on the road by tackling essential maintenance before freezing temperatures and slippery conditions arrive.
A Strong Reminder: A Little Prep Now Prevents Big Headaches Later
“Fall Car Care Month is a great reminder that even the smallest seasonal preparations can make a big difference before winter hits,” said Julie Bausch Lent, Managing Editor at Car Talk. “Car Talk is always encouraging drivers to be proactive. Test your battery, top off your fluids, check your heat, wipers, and tires, including the spare, if you have one. It’s a lot easier and more cost-effective than waiting until you’re stuck in a snowstorm with a frozen windshield and bald tires. We’re excited to continue our collaboration with SimpleTire to help get this message out in a way that’s practical and fun.”
Instead of treating maintenance like a chore, both brands are reframing it as a smart life hack — an easy investment that saves time, stress, and money later on.
Exclusive Savings to Encourage Safe Choices
To make winter readiness more affordable, SimpleTire is offering up to 20% off during its Tire Care Sale now through October 26, 2025. Whether drivers need a complete winter tire setup, a fresh set of all-weather tires, or simply want to replace worn all-season tires, the promotion lowers the barrier to one of the most important safety upgrades a vehicle can have.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), worn or improper tires are a leading contributor to loss-of-control accidents during winter weather, yet many drivers delay replacing them due to cost concerns. SimpleTire’s discount comes at the perfect moment to encourage safer decisions before roads get slick.
Tire Types Explained: Which Option Is Best for Your Climate?
Not all winter driving situations are the same. While some drivers face heavy lake-effect snow and black ice every morning, others experience mild winters with only an occasional frost. That’s why choosing the right tire depends less on preference and more on regional weather patterns.
Here’s what the experts at Car Talk and SimpleTire recommend:
| Climate Type | Recommended Tire | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy snow, icy roads, sub-freezing temps | Winter tires (a.k.a. snow tires) | Made with soft rubber and deep tread for maximum traction on ice and slush |
| Moderate winters with mixed conditions | All-weather tires | Certified for winter use but built to perform well year-round |
| Mild winters or coastal climates | All-season tires | Acceptable when temperatures rarely drop below freezing — but only with strong tread depth |
“Not all winter driving looks the same, which is why choosing the right tires really depends on where you live,” noted Nicole Wakelin, Automotive Journalist and Car Talk Staff Writer. “If you’re facing snowy mornings in Minnesota, winter tires are a must. For drivers in milder climates like the Carolinas or Pacific Northwest, an all-weather tire might be a better year-round fit.
Simple Steps to Winter-Proof Your Vehicle
Vehicle preparation doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In most cases, a quick afternoon of preventive maintenance can dramatically improve safety and reliability during the colder months.
Here’s the official Fall Car Care Month checklist, recommended by SimpleTire and Car Talk:
- Check Tire Tread and Pressure
- Cold temperatures cause pressure to drop — sometimes by 1 PSI for every 10-degree temperature change.
- Low pressure reduces traction and increases wear. Consider new winter or all-weather tires if your tread is below 4/32″.
- Inspect Brakes
- Squeaking, grinding, or delayed stopping are warning signs.
- Brakes work harder in winter due to salt, moisture, and slippery conditions — don’t take chances.
- Test Your Battery
- Batteries lose up to 50% of their cranking power in freezing temperatures.
- If your battery is over three years old, it may be time for a replacement.
- Refresh Your Visibility Tools
- Replace wiper blades and switch to winter washer fluid to prevent freezing.
- Clean foggy headlights or upgrade to brighter bulbs.
- Check Coolant and Heating System
- Antifreeze isn’t just for the engine — it helps ensure the interior heater works properly.
- Inspect All Exterior Lights
- Snow and dirt can dim headlights quickly — clean them before and after storms.
- Pack a Winter Emergency Kit
- Must-haves include blankets, jumper cables, an ice scraper, flashlight, gloves, flares, and non-perishable food.
Education + Access = Safer Roads
“Fall Car Care Month is the perfect time to think ahead,” said Kenny Pratt, President at SimpleTire. “We’re making it easy for drivers to save on top tire brands while giving them the education they need to make informed choices that will keep their families safe through the winter.”
The SimpleTire and Car Talk partnership combines trusted automotive expertise with one-click convenience, making it easier than ever for drivers to take action. Whether someone prefers reading tips online, watching tutorial videos, or jumping straight to the tire shopping cart, the campaign ensures that every kind of vehicle owner — from seasoned DIYers to first-time car buyers — can find guidance that fits their style.
While the campaign focuses on seasonal safety, SimpleTire and Car Talk emphasize that good maintenance habits last year-round. Preparing for winter isn’t just about braving snowstorms — it’s about:
- Extending vehicle lifespan
- Improving fuel efficiency
- Preventing costly breakdowns
- Protecting passengers and fellow drivers
In short, taking care of your car is taking care of yourself — and everyone who rides with you.
Final Reminder: Winter Doesn’t Wait — But You Can Get Ahead of It
Before the first major frost hits, drivers are encouraged to take just one step — whether that’s checking tread depth, ordering new tires, or simply popping the hood for a quick inspection. SimpleTire and Car Talk want to make vehicle prep feel less like a chore and more like a smart, empowering move.
