So I'll be moving to the Albany, NY region in the fall for grad school, and since I've never lived anywhere where it snows more than once every 6 years, I need to know what I should have to prepare my ride. Its an '07 IP 6MT. I already have a clear bra, so that can be checked off. What kind of tires do I need? What about chains? Is my car going to rust the first year I'm up there? Any tips I should know about having a car in the cold weather? Thanks.

 

The winter months can be harder on a car, but it will not rust it out if you keep up with a routine.

The best thing is to make sure your cars paint is protected well. Be sure to layer your paint with a couple coats of good quality synthentic sealant to protect the surface from the salt.

If possible, try and keep the car clean......rinse off the underside and wheel well areas of any salt build up. Self car washes are your friend.

Make sure to invest in a good set of snow tires.....I'm not sure if chains will do the job up in Albany.

Most of us in the Northeast just buy a set of aftermarket rims and snows, and change them out in Nov/Dec. This keeps your summer rims/wheels in good shape, and guarantees you some traction and handling on the bad snow days.

Good luck.

 

What kind of tires do you guys use? Snow performance, or the non-studded snow tires?

 

market place - wheels/tires - winter setup

 

Since the weather in New Jersey is less prone to severe storms, (which is probably the case in Albany), you may want to post this in the Regional section on the forum.

Hopefully someone that lives up there can best advise you to which set up will work best.

These cars are different animals in the snow, so conservative driving even with snows is a must. Use common sense and good judgement, and you will be fine even in the worst of weather.

I purchased (4) 225/55/17 Dunlop M3 Winter Sport tires, and put them on some aftermarket rims. The taller sidewall and narrow width improved the overall grip and traction. I was surprised at the performance and handling in the snow with these tires. Definitely helped me get around in the couple bigger snows we get each year. The dry road performance/handling was very good as well, and these tires ride smooth and quiet compared to my summer performance tires.....