The tires have a special cold-weather compound that remains pliable even in freezing temperatures, providing excellent traction on icy and snowy roads. The open shoulder slots and innovative tread design enhance grip on slippery surfaces and reduce the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads. The tires’ full-depth tread features ensure long-lasting performance but are not suitable for off-roading or muddy terrain. They are also studdable, allowing for the installation of size #11 studs to improve traction and grip in severe winter weather.
Although not quiet and lacking a treadwear warranty, the Winterforce 2 tires offer a balance between performance and cost, making them an appealing choice for drivers seeking dependable winter tire options without breaking the bank.
Firestone, a renowned tire manufacturer, has introduced the Firestone Winterforce 2, a mid-range winter tire designed to handle harsh winter conditions. This tire is engineered to provide exceptional performance in cold-weather conditions. The review explores the features, capabilities, and real-world performance of the Firestone Winterforce 2, helping drivers make informed decisions about their winter tire needs. Whether driving a sedan, coupe, minivan, or wagon, this tire ensures grip and confidence on icy roads.
Tire Technology and Features
You can trust the Firestone Winterforce 2 tires to get you through any hazardous situation, as they are built specifically for use in severe cold.
Special Cold Weather Compound
The cold-weather compound used in the construction of these tires allows them to retain their flexibility even when the temperature drops. When applied to snow and ice, this compound improves traction and grip.
Open Shoulder Slots and Tread Design
In comparison to conventional all-season tires, this one performs admirably in the snow thanks to its open shoulder gaps and cutting-edge tread pattern. These features of the tire’s design aid in its ability to grip wet and slick conditions.
Full-Depth Tread Features
The tires include full-depth tread characteristics that guarantee reliable performance year after year. As the tire wears, it maintains its ability to grip the road.
Certified with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake
The Firestone Winterforce 2 tires have been certified as meeting the requirements for the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake label. This accreditation attests to their skill in dealing with icy and snowy environments.
Studdable (Pinned for Size #11 Studs)
These tires can be equipped with studs as small as size #11, increasing their traction and grip in extreme winter conditions.
The Firestone Winterforce 2 tires’ specific formula, open shoulder slots, and tread pattern all work together to deliver exceptional winter performance. They are a trustworthy option for winter driving because their full-depth tread features keep them performing well for several winter seasons.
Performance in Different Conditions
Performance on Dry Roads
Although the Firestone Winterforce 2 is a winter tire, it performs admirably well in dry circumstances. It provides a secure footing and reduces the risk of slipping on hard, dry floors. The tire’s grip and cornering skills are enough for year-round use, making it a safe pick for drivers in between seasons.
Performance on Wet Roads
When driving on wet roads, the Winterforce 2 does quite well. It’s easy to maintain control in wet circumstances because of the deep grooves and high-density sipes that cover its surface. The tire’s resistance to aquaplaning guarantees excellent stability and safety when driving on wet surfaces.
Performance on Snow
In icy situations, Firestone Winterforce 2 shines. In both packed and unpacked snow, the tire performs admirably. It provides superb traction, letting you speed up and slow down with ease. The tire is easy to control and dependable even while driving in heavier snow and slush, giving the driver peace of mind. Stopping distances on snow are competitive, thus boosting safety.
Performance on Ice
Tire traction on ice varies depending on whether or not studs have been added. Without studs, performance on icy roads is adequate but not spectacular. Winterforce 2’s traction and handling on ice are good without the optional TSMI #11 studs. With exceptionally short braking distances, it provides a feeling of safety comparable to driving in dry circumstances. The studded tire is an excellent option for driving on snowy winter roads since it performs exceptionally well in the most extreme icy situations.
Comfort
The Firestone Winterforce 2 falls short in the comfort department. It doesn’t provide a jarring ride, but it has trouble smoothing out major road imperfections. When driving over difficult terrain or over potholes, this might cause the car to vibrate and jolt uncomfortably. Other tire alternatives may provide a more refined and cushioned driving experience, which may be preferable if ride comfort is a key consideration.
Noise
The Winterforce 2 is no exception to the rule that winter tires make more noise than other tires, especially at faster speeds. The tire noise is manageable at lesser speeds but increases dramatically at higher speeds when out on the open road. Those who want a serene driving experience may find the noise levels annoying. It’s important to remember that winter tires’ typically louder noise is the result of their specialized tread patterns and compounds for cold weather.
Tread Life and Durability
Firestone Winterforce 2 tires are known for their long tread life. Tires with this tread life are said to last their owners at least three to four winters. Even though the Winterforce 2 does not come with a specific treadwear warranty from Firestone, its long service life is a major plus. Winter tire performance is highly dependent on having sufficient tread depth; thus, keeping an eye on it is crucial. If your tires have worn down to the legal minimum of 5/32 inches for winter tires, it’s time to start thinking about replacement.
Warranty
Like many other studded winter tires, Firestone doesn’t guarantee a certain number of miles on the tread life of the Winterforce 2. It does, however, provide typical warranties for things like consistency and quality, so there’s that. This protection guarantees that the tire has no flaws in its construction or materials. Remember that studded tires are built more for severe winter conditions and improved traction than for prolonged tread life. While the absence of a treadwear warranty is standard for studdable winter tires, it’s crucial to stick to safe tread depths for the best winter performance.
Vehicles That Fit Firestone Winterforce 2 Tires
- Audi A2, A3, A4
- BMW 1, 2, and 3 Series
- Buick Century, LeSabre, Lucerne, and Envision
- Chevrolet Cobalt, Cruze, Malibu, Impala, Cavalier, Traverse, Spark, and Bolt
- Chrysler Town and Country, 300, 200
- Dodge Charger, Caravan, and Stratus
- Fiat 500, Fiat Punto
- Ford Freestyle, Taurus, Fusion, Focus, Contour, Mustang, Escort, Fiesta, Explorer, EcoSport
- Honda Odyssey, Accord, CR-V, Prelude, Fit, Insight, and Civic
- Hyundai Accent, i30, i20, Elantra, Kona, Sonata, and Tucson
- Jeep Grand Cherokee, Compass
- GMC Yukon, Sierra, and Terrain
- Kia Forte, Niro, Optima, Rio, Seltos, and Soul
- Lexus IS, CT, and ES
- Mazda 3, 6, CX-3, CX-5
- Mitsubishi Galant and Lancer
- Nissan Maxima, Sentra, Juke, Murano, Micra, Kicks, and Altima
- Pontiac Vibe, Grand Am, Grand Prix, G6
- Subaru Outback, Impreza WRX, and Forester
- Toyota Yaris, Corolla, Prius, Sienna, Camry, Highlander, Avalon
- Volkswagen Golf, Passat, EOS, GTi, Jetta, and Taos
- Volvo S40, S60
Compared With Other Tires
General AltiMAX Arctic 12 vs. Firestone Winterforce 2
In the head-to-head comparison between the General AltiMAX Arctic 12 and the Firestone Winterforce 2 winter tires, the General AltiMAX Arctic 12 emerges as the standout choice for the most severe winter conditions. Compared to Winterforce 2, it performs better on ice and snow. It has better braking and acceleration on ice, faster acceleration, and more precise snow handling. It also performs better in the rain, both in terms of stopping distance and cornering speed. The AltiMAX Arctic 12 is the favored alternative for people wanting optimum safety and traction during winter driving because of its higher performance on icy and snowy terrain, despite being more expensive than the Firestone Winterforce 2.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 vs. Firestone Winterforce 2
Two Winter Premium Touring tires that are well suited for passenger vehicles and crossovers are the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 and the Firestone Winterforce 2. The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 outperforms the Firestone Winterforce 2 in nearly every metric, making it the superior choice for winter driving. It has excellent cornering stability, grip, and resistance to hydroplaning in both dry and rainy situations. In addition, the Blizzak WS90 has outstanding performance on snow and ice, giving drivers assurance on icy roads. As a bonus, it provides a quiet and smooth ride, making it an excellent choice for a winter tire. The Firestone Winterforce 2 is a good winter tire, but the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is the clear winner because of its excellent performance in a wide variety of wintry circumstances.
Firestone Winterforce 2 vs. Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
The Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 winter tire is the better option for overall performance when compared to the Firestone Winterforce 2 winter tire. The Pirelli tire performs exceptionally well in wet, dry, and overall comfort areas, making it an excellent choice for winter driving. On the other hand, the Firestone Winterforce 2 exhibits a minor advantage in snow and ice performance and tread life. Therefore, you should choose between these two tires based on your local climate and driving needs; the Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 provides a more all-around performance package, especially in dry and wet conditions, while the Firestone Winterforce 2 is a good choice for those living in areas with lots of snow and ice.
Customer Feedback
Firestone WinterForce 2 tires are a popular and cost-effective option for winter driving. They say these tires are great on snow and ice because of how well they grip the road. These tires have improved safety and convenience for drivers in severe winter conditions. Users in areas prone to heavy snowfall and mountainous terrain have expressed gratitude for the ease with which these tires have handled these situations.
However, the Firestone WinterForce 2 tires have been met with dissatisfaction from some buyers due to their subpar performance on dry pavement. They claim to have low levels of grip and stability, which is problematic when cornering. These tires may not meet the standards of people who prefer a more exciting driving experience. Some customers have also mentioned that while they work fine in light snow, they may not be the best option for heavy ice and slush. In general, the tires don’t seem to handle dry roads or aggressive driving very well.
Conclusion
The Firestone Winterforce 2 is a reliable and cost-effective winter tire with a special cold-weather compound, open shoulder slots, and an innovative tread design. It offers excellent grip and handling in wintry conditions, earning the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake designation. The full-depth tread ensures extended performance over multiple winter seasons. Although it may not provide ride comfort or generate increased road noise, it excels on snowy and icy roads. The option to add studs (#11 studs) enhances grip in severe winter conditions. Overall, the Firestone Winterforce 2 is a cost-effective solution for drivers seeking reliable winter tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Winterforce 2 tires studdable?
Yes, size #11 studs (TSMI #11) can be installed into the Winterforce 2 tires to improve grip in extreme cold.
Does the Winterforce 2 tire come with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake designation?
The Firestone Winterforce 2 tire has been awarded the prestigious Three Peaks of the Mountain Snowflake certification for its superior performance in snow and ice.
How does the special cold weather compound of the Winterforce 2 improve winter performance?
The cold weather compound is flexible even when temperatures are below freezing, allowing for safe travel on snowy and ice-covered roads.
Can the Firestone Winterforce 2 tires handle wet road conditions?
There is no need to worry about hydroplaning or losing control on wet roads thanks to these tires’ revolutionary tread pattern and open shoulder gaps.
Do the Firestone Winterforce 2 tires come with a treadwear warranty?
These studded tires do not have a treadwear warranty. However, there are warranties for the materials, craftsmanship, and uniformity.