10-06-2009, 11:05 AM
BR60103 Wrote:I have a dilemma on this. We plan to take the motorhome south and west this winter (for about 3 months). If we drive in snow, it shouldn't be more than a couple of days at each end of the trip. So, no snow tires there.
Now our other car will be laid up for 3 months of the winter. Is it worth putting snow tires on for the other 3? I haven't actually had snow tires for about 30 years -- my first Mini.
Will I need special hot weather tires for California and Arizona in January and February?
I don't know what the requirements for Northern Az. are, but here in California, snow tires may be useful; but if it is snowing in the mountains, the CHP does not recognize any such thing as "snow tires." When the CHP determines that conditions warrant, all vehicles that are not all wheel drive are required to install chains or be parked until the road is cleared. At the time you are coming out here, I would recommend that you use the "Southern route" taking a south bound interstate through the plains and then coming west on I-40 or I-10. On I-40 you may still encounter snow in New Mexico and Arizona, but I think they keep it pretty well plowed out so you will only have problems if there is a snow storm as you are coming through. I-10 is far enough south that you should not even see snow, except on top of the mountains above to your left as you pass Palm Springs.