To Stud or not to Stud - When the roads get slick which is best for you

August 17, 2026 · 7 min read

Studded vs. Non-Studded Winter Tires in Vermont: Which Are Better?

If you drive through a Vermont winter, choosing the right tires isn't just about getting through the snow. It's about maintaining traction on icy back roads, stopping safely at intersections, climbing snow-covered hills, and staying confident when temperatures drop below freezing.

One of the most common winter tire questions we hear at St. Johnsbury GMC is:

Are studded winter tires better than non-studded winter tires in Vermont?

The answer depends on where you drive, the conditions you encounter, and what you expect from your vehicle. Here's what Northeast Kingdom drivers should know before choosing their next set of winter tires.

Studded vs. Non-Studded Winter Tires: Quick Answer

Studded winter tires are generally best for drivers who regularly encounter hard-packed snow and ice, especially on rural or less frequently treated Vermont roads. Modern non-studded winter tires can be an excellent choice for drivers who spend more time on plowed and treated roads and want a quieter ride.

For drivers around St. Johnsbury, Lyndonville, Danville, Waterford, Burke, and the Northeast Kingdom, the right choice often comes down to the roads you travel every day.

What Are Studded Winter Tires?

Studded winter tires contain small metal studs embedded into the tire tread. These studs are designed to dig into packed snow and ice, providing additional traction when the road surface becomes extremely slippery.

That extra bite can be particularly valuable during a Vermont winter when you're dealing with freezing rain, icy hills, packed snow, or roads that haven't been treated yet.

Advantages of Studded Winter Tires

Studded tires can provide:

Excellent traction on ice
Improved grip on hard-packed snow
Additional confidence on steep or icy roads
Strong performance in severe winter conditions
Extra traction for rural Vermont driving

If your morning commute includes back roads, hills, or roads that aren't immediately plowed or salted, studded tires may be worth considering.

What Are Non-Studded Winter Tires?

Non-studded winter tires—sometimes called studless winter tires—use specialized rubber compounds and advanced tread designs rather than metal studs to generate winter traction.

Unlike all-season tires, true winter tires are engineered to remain flexible when temperatures become extremely cold.

Modern non-studded snow tires can deliver impressive traction in snow, slush, cold temperatures, and many icy conditions.

Advantages of Non-Studded Winter Tires

Non-studded winter tires typically offer:

Excellent snow traction
Good performance on cold pavement
Quieter highway driving
A smoother ride than many studded tires
No metal studs contacting dry pavement
Strong performance on regularly plowed and treated roads

For Vermont drivers who spend most of their time on major roads and highways, a quality non-studded winter tire can be an excellent option.

Are Studded Tires Better on Ice?

Studded winter tires can have an advantage on extremely icy surfaces because the metal studs physically bite into the ice.

That's one reason studded tires remain popular in northern New England.

Consider a winter morning in the Northeast Kingdom when yesterday's melting snow has frozen overnight. Your driveway is icy, shaded sections of the road are slick, and some secondary roads still have hard-packed snow.

Those are conditions where the additional traction provided by studs can be valuable.

Are Non-Studded Winter Tires Better in Snow?

Not necessarily.

Both studded and non-studded winter tires can perform extremely well in snow. Tire design, tread depth, rubber compound, vehicle weight, drivetrain, and road conditions all affect winter performance.

The bigger difference tends to appear on hard ice, where studs can provide additional mechanical grip.

Studded vs. Non-Studded Tires for Vermont Driving

Here's a simple way to think about the decision.

Consider studded winter tires if you:

Frequently drive rural Vermont roads
Encounter steep hills
Drive before roads are fully plowed or treated
Regularly encounter ice or hard-packed snow
Live on a dirt or secondary road
Want maximum traction in severe winter conditions

Consider non-studded winter tires if you:

Mostly drive maintained highways and main roads
Want a quieter winter tire
Frequently drive on dry pavement between storms
Want excellent snow performance without metal studs
Spend significant time traveling on Interstate 91 or other regularly maintained routes

Do I Need Winter Tires If My GMC Has AWD or 4WD?

Yes, winter tires can still make a major difference on an AWD or 4WD vehicle.

Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive can help your vehicle accelerate and maintain traction, but your tires are still the contact point between your GMC and the road.

Your tires affect:

Braking
Cornering
Steering
Acceleration
Overall winter traction

A GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra HD, Yukon, Terrain, Acadia, or Canyon equipped with 4WD or AWD can still benefit from tires specifically designed for cold temperatures, snow, and ice.

4WD helps you get moving. The right winter tires also help you stop and turn.

Are All-Season Tires Good Enough for a Vermont Winter?

All-season tires are designed to handle a wide variety of conditions, but they aren't the same as dedicated winter tires.

Winter tires use tread patterns and rubber compounds specifically designed for colder temperatures and winter precipitation.

For drivers who regularly encounter snow, ice, freezing rain, steep hills, and below-freezing temperatures in northern Vermont, dedicated winter tires are worth considering.

When Should You Put Winter Tires on in Vermont?

Don't wait for the first major snowstorm.

A good rule is to start thinking about your winter tire changeover when temperatures are consistently approaching the range where winter tires are designed to perform best.

Scheduling early also helps you avoid the rush that occurs when the Northeast Kingdom gets its first significant snowfall.

If you're unsure whether your current tires have enough tread for another Vermont winter, the St. Johnsbury GMC Service Department can inspect them and help you determine your options.

How Long Do Studded Winter Tires Last?

Winter tire life depends heavily on:

Mileage
Driving habits
Tire pressure
Vehicle alignment
Rotation schedule
Road conditions
How long the tires remain installed after winter

Running winter tires during warmer weather can accelerate wear because their softer rubber compounds are designed for cold temperatures.

Proper seasonal changeovers and tire maintenance can help maximize their useful life.

Which Winter Tires Are Best for a GMC Sierra in Vermont?

The best winter tire for a GMC Sierra 1500 or Sierra HD depends on how you use your truck.

A Sierra that spends most of its winter traveling I-91 may have different tire needs than a truck regularly traveling unpaved roads, steep driveways, job sites, or remote areas of the Northeast Kingdom.

When choosing winter tires for your GMC Sierra, consider:

Your exact tire size
Sierra 1500 vs. Sierra HD
Typical passenger and cargo loads
Towing
Highway versus back-road driving
Snow and ice exposure
Studded versus non-studded preference

Our team can help match your truck with tires appropriate for both your GMC and the way you actually drive it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Tires in Vermont

Are studded tires worth it in Vermont?

For drivers who regularly encounter icy roads, packed snow, steep hills, or less frequently maintained roads, studded winter tires can provide valuable additional traction.

Are studded tires better than snow tires?

Studded tires are winter tires. The comparison is usually between studded winter tires and non-studded—or studless—winter tires. Both are designed for winter driving, but studs can provide additional grip on hard ice.

Do I need studded tires if I have four-wheel drive?

Not necessarily. Your decision should be based on your driving conditions. However, 4WD doesn't replace proper tires. Winter tires can improve braking, steering, and traction regardless of drivetrain.

What winter tires are best for driving in the Northeast Kingdom?

There isn't one tire that's best for every driver. Rural roads, elevation, commuting distance, highway driving, vehicle type, and exposure to ice should all factor into your choice.

Can St. Johnsbury GMC help me choose winter tires?

Yes. The St. Johnsbury GMC Service Department in St. Johnsbury, Vermont can help you determine the proper tire size and discuss studded and non-studded winter tire options for your GMC.

Get Ready for Winter at St. Johnsbury GMC

Vermont winters can change quickly. Dry pavement in St. Johnsbury can turn into snow-covered roads as you head into higher elevations, and overnight temperature changes can create icy conditions before your morning commute.

That's why choosing between studded and non-studded winter tires shouldn't simply come down to which tire costs less.

It should come down to where you drive and what conditions you face.

If you're not sure which option is right for your GMC, talk with the team at St. Johnsbury GMC. We can help you choose winter tires that fit your vehicle, driving habits, and Northeast Kingdom winter conditions.

Schedule your winter tire service with St. Johnsbury GMC before the snow starts flying.

https://www.stjohnsburygmc.com/serviceappmt.aspx?_gl=1*1t997u2*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4orUBhCjARIsAIbF3qw4RLHMBYdoznhD3SMPpheeAtznVTNTIFi3CmnoJEJABFCsZxLlIhEaAo-EEALw_wcB&gbraid=0AAAABDhG3xwmDQEBlCSJuC2PxHfKs01tC

Jul 10, 2026

How Hot Weather Affects Your Vehicle | St. Johnsbury GMC

How Hot Weather Can Affect Your Vehicle Summer heat can be hard on more than just drivers and passengers. High temperatures can place added stress on your vehicle’s battery, tires, fluids, air-conditioning system, and engine. Understanding how hot weather affects your vehicle can help you avoid unexpected repairs, improve performance, and stay safer on the road. 1. Heat Can Weaken Your Vehicle’s Battery Many drivers associate battery problems with cold Vermont winters, but hot weather can be just as damaging. High temperatures can cause battery fluid to evaporate faster and accelerate corrosion inside the battery. Over time, this can reduce battery life and leave you with a vehicle that struggles to start. Signs of a weak battery may include: Slow engine cranking Dim headlights Electrical issues A battery warning light Clicking when you try to start the vehicle Having your battery tested before a long summer trip can help prevent an inconvenient breakdown. 2. Hot Pavement Can Affect Your Tires As temperatures rise, the air inside your tires expands. This can increase tire pressure and place additional stress on tires that are worn, damaged, or improperly inflated. Hot pavement can also increase the risk of a tire failure, especially during extended highway driving. Check your tire pressure when the tires are cool and follow the recommended pressure listed inside the driver’s door jamb. Do not rely only on the maximum pressure printed on the tire itself. You should also inspect your tires for: Cracks Bulges Uneven wear Low tread depth Objects embedded in the tire Properly maintained tires can improve traction, fuel economy, ride comfort, and safety. 3. Your Engine Can Be More Likely to Overheat Your vehicle’s cooling system works harder during hot weather. Low coolant, a damaged hose, a worn belt, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a failing radiator can all increase the risk of overheating. Keep an eye on your temperature gauge while driving. If the gauge moves toward the red zone or you see steam coming from under the hood, safely pull over and turn off the engine. Never remove a radiator cap while the engine is hot. The cooling system may be under pressure, and hot coolant can cause serious burns. Regular cooling-system inspections can help identify leaks or worn components before they cause a larger problem. 4. Hot Weather Can Reduce Air-Conditioning Performance Your air-conditioning system has to work especially hard during the hottest days of summer. If the air coming from your vents is not as cold as it used to be, the system may have low refrigerant, a leak, a clogged cabin air filter, or another mechanical issue. A properly operating air-conditioning system does more than keep you comfortable. It can also help reduce driver fatigue and improve visibility by controlling moisture inside the vehicle. 5. Heat Can Break Down Vehicle Fluids Extreme heat can cause vehicle fluids to deteriorate more quickly. Engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and power-steering fluid all play an important role in protecting major vehicle components. Low or contaminated fluids can lead to increased friction, overheating, reduced performance, and expensive repairs. Before summer travel, consider having your vehicle’s fluids checked and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. 6. Heat Can Damage Your Vehicle’s Interior Direct sunlight can cause the temperature inside a parked vehicle to rise quickly. Over time, ultraviolet rays and excessive heat can fade upholstery, dry out leather, damage dashboards, and affect electronic components. You can help protect your vehicle’s interior by: Parking in the shade when possible Using a windshield sunshade Applying UV-protective interior products Keeping leather surfaces properly conditioned Avoiding leaving electronics in direct sunlight Never leave children or pets unattended inside a parked vehicle, even for a short period of time. 7. Hot Weather Can Lower Fuel Economy Running the air conditioner, driving with underinflated tires, carrying extra weight, and sitting in traffic can all reduce fuel economy. You may be able to improve summer fuel efficiency by keeping your tires properly inflated, removing unnecessary cargo, staying current with maintenance, and avoiding aggressive acceleration. Summer Vehicle Maintenance Checklist Before your next road trip, make sure you check: Battery condition Tire pressure and tread Engine coolant level Engine oil Air-conditioning performance Windshield wipers Belts and hoses Brake condition Exterior and interior lights Schedule Summer Vehicle Service in St. Johnsbury, Vermont A seasonal inspection can help make sure your vehicle is ready for hot weather, long drives, and summer travel. The service team at St. Johnsbury GMC can inspect your battery, tires, cooling system, fluids, brakes, air conditioning, and other important components. Schedule your service appointment today and enjoy greater confidence wherever the road takes you this summer. Frequently Asked Questions Can hot weather cause a car battery to die? Yes. High temperatures can speed up battery fluid evaporation and internal corrosion, which may shorten the life of the battery. Should tire pressure be higher during hot weather? Tire pressure naturally increases as temperatures rise. Always check pressure when the tires are cool and use the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure. What should I do if my vehicle starts overheating? Safely pull over, turn off the engine, and allow the vehicle to cool. Do not remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Contact roadside assistance or a qualified service department if necessary. How often should vehicle fluids be checked? Fluid levels should be checked regularly and replaced according to the maintenance schedule listed in your owner’s manual. Why is my air conditioner not blowing cold air? Possible causes include low refrigerant, a refrigerant leak, a clogged cabin air filter, compressor problems, or electrical issues. A professional inspection can help identify the cause.

Jun 26, 2026

The GMC 2.7L TurboMax

The GMC 2.7L TurboMax™ Engine: Big Torque, Smart Capability Drivers in St. Johnsbury, Lyndonville, Littleton, Burke, and across Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom know that a truck needs to be more than stylish. It needs to be strong, practical, confident, and ready for real life. That is exactly where the GMC 2.7L TurboMax™ engine stands out. Available in the GMC Sierra 1500 lineup, the TurboMax engine is designed to deliver impressive low-end torque, confident acceleration, and everyday truck capability without requiring a traditional V8. For many drivers, it offers the right balance of power, efficiency, and value. According to GMC, the TurboMax engine delivers 310 horsepower, 430 lb.-ft. of best-in-class standard torque, and up to 9,400 lbs. of available max towing when properly equipped. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and is offered on select Sierra 1500 trims, including Pro, SLE, and Elevation models. At St. Johnsbury GMC, we are proud to help local truck shoppers find a Sierra 1500 that fits their workday, weekend plans, and Vermont lifestyle. What Is the GMC 2.7L TurboMax Engine? The GMC 2.7L TurboMax is a turbocharged gas engine engineered to provide strong torque and responsive performance in a modern light-duty truck package. Instead of relying on engine size alone, the TurboMax uses turbocharging to help produce serious pulling power from a smaller-displacement engine. That means you get confident performance for daily driving, hauling gear, towing trailers, and navigating Vermont roads through changing seasons. GMC 2.7L TurboMax Key Specs Feature GMC 2.7L TurboMax Engine Type 2.7L turbocharged gas engine Horsepower 310 hp Torque 430 lb.-ft. Transmission 8-speed automatic Available Max Towing Up to 9,400 lbs. when properly equipped Common Sierra 1500 Trims Pro, SLE, Elevation Why Truck Buyers Like the TurboMax Engine The TurboMax engine is a smart choice for drivers who want strong capability without automatically stepping up to a larger engine. With 430 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine is built to feel confident from a stop, when merging, and when carrying a load. For drivers around St. Johnsbury, that can make a big difference. Whether you are heading up Route 5, driving toward Lyndonville, towing weekend gear, or using your truck for work, the TurboMax gives the Sierra 1500 the strength many owners need every day. TurboMax vs. V8: Is the 2.7L TurboMax Enough Engine? For many GMC Sierra 1500 shoppers, yes, the 2.7L TurboMax is more than enough engine. A V8 may still be the right choice for drivers who regularly tow heavier loads or simply prefer traditional V8 performance. But the TurboMax is designed for buyers who want strong everyday capability, responsive torque, and solid towing strength in a modern truck engine. With up to 9,400 lbs. of available towing, the TurboMax-equipped Sierra 1500 can handle many boats, utility trailers, small campers, ATVs, snowmobiles, and work trailers when properly configured. Which GMC Sierra 1500 Models Offer the TurboMax? The TurboMax engine is featured on select GMC Sierra 1500 trims, including practical and popular models like the Sierra 1500 Pro, SLE, and Elevation. GMC lists the TurboMax engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission on the 2026 Sierra 1500 lineup. That makes it a great match for shoppers who want a capable Sierra without moving into higher-priced trims or larger engine options. At St. Johnsbury GMC, our team can help you compare available Sierra 1500 models, cab configurations, drivetrains, packages, and towing equipment so you can choose the right truck for your needs. Is the GMC 2.7L TurboMax Good for Vermont Driving? Yes. The GMC 2.7L TurboMax is a strong fit for Vermont drivers who want a dependable, capable truck for everyday use. Its high torque output helps with hill climbs, hauling, and towing. Available 4WD configurations in the Sierra 1500 lineup add extra confidence for snow, dirt roads, job sites, and changing New England weather. For many drivers in the Northeast Kingdom, the TurboMax Sierra 1500 offers the right mix of strength and practicality. Benefits of the GMC 2.7L TurboMax Engine The TurboMax engine is a great choice if you want: Strong torque for daily driving and towing A modern turbocharged gas engine Up to 9,400 lbs. of available towing when properly equipped A smart alternative to a larger V8 Confident performance in a GMC Sierra 1500 A capable truck for work, family, and weekend use Shop GMC Sierra 1500 TurboMax Trucks in St. Johnsbury, VT St. Johnsbury GMC is your local destination for new and used GMC trucks, SUVs, and service in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The dealership is located at 500 Memorial Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT, and serves drivers throughout the surrounding Northeast Kingdom area. Whether you are comparing Sierra 1500 trims, checking current offers, valuing your trade, or scheduling a test drive, our team is here to help you find the right GMC truck for your lifestyle. Explore the GMC Sierra 1500 with the 2.7L TurboMax engine today at St. Johnsbury GMC. FAQ: GMC 2.7L TurboMax Engine What is the GMC 2.7L TurboMax engine? The GMC 2.7L TurboMax is a turbocharged gas engine available in select GMC Sierra 1500 models. It delivers 310 horsepower and 430 lb.-ft. of torque, giving drivers strong everyday truck performance. How much horsepower does the GMC TurboMax engine have? The GMC TurboMax engine produces 310 horsepower. How much torque does the 2.7L TurboMax have? The GMC 2.7L TurboMax engine produces 430 lb.-ft. of torque, which GMC describes as best-in-class standard torque for the Sierra 1500. How much can the GMC Sierra 1500 TurboMax tow? When properly equipped, the GMC Sierra 1500 with the TurboMax engine offers up to 9,400 lbs. of available max towing. Is the 2.7L TurboMax a good engine for towing? Yes. The TurboMax engine is a good choice for many common towing needs, including utility trailers, small campers, boats, ATVs, and work equipment. Drivers with heavier towing needs may want to compare it with available V8 or Duramax diesel options. Which GMC Sierra trims have the TurboMax engine? The TurboMax engine is available on select GMC Sierra 1500 trims, including Pro, SLE, and Elevation models. Where can I test drive a GMC Sierra 1500 TurboMax near St. Johnsbury, VT? You can shop and test drive GMC Sierra 1500 TurboMax models at St. Johnsbury GMC, located at 500 Memorial Drive in St. Johnsbury, Vermont.

Jun 10, 2026

St. Johnsbury GMC Car Buying Process FAQs

Finding your next vehicle should be an enjoyable experience, not a complicated one. At St. Johnsbury GMC, we focus on making every step clear, easy, and convenient for our customers. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear during the car-buying process. To make your purchase even more valuable, every vehicle includes our BIG Deal Plus+ maintenance program at no additional cost. Other FAQ posts: What is the BIG Deal Plus+ Program? (coming soon) Financing & Pricing Trade-Ins & Vehicle Value (coming soon) Vehicle Options (coming soon) Trust & Reputation (coming soon) Ready to Get Started? (coming soon) How much time should I expect to spend at the dealership? At St. Johnsbury GMC, we aim to keep things moving efficiently while still giving you the attention you deserve. Many purchases are completed within a few hours, though the exact timing depends on factors like financing and trade-ins. If you’d like to shorten your visit, you can browse inventory and complete a credit application online ahead of time. Can I complete my purchase from home? Yes! You can handle most or all of your purchase remotely with St. Johnsbury GMC. Our team is available to guide you through each step, including selecting a vehicle, evaluating your trade-in, securing financing, and completing paperwork electronically. We’ll even coordinate delivery right to your door.* Prefer to start on your own? Our website lets you: Explore available inventory Estimate your trade-in value Apply for financing Build your deal online *We offer free delivery to VT, NH, ME, MA, CT, and NY. For customers outside these areas, we’re happy to help arrange shipping. Do you offer delivery services? Yes, we offer free delivery and trade-in pickup throughout Vermont and surrounding states, including New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York. In many cases, we’re also able to bring a vehicle to you for a test drive in Vermont and New Hampshire. Reach out to discuss availability! If you’re located farther away, our team can help coordinate transportation options to get your vehicle to you. Can you help with out-of-state purchases? Absolutely. We regularly work with out-of-state customers. If you’re buying from outside the area, we can walk you through the process remotely and help arrange delivery to your location. What should I bring to the dealership? To keep your visit efficient, it’s helpful to bring: A current driver’s license Proof of insurance Trade-in paperwork (registration, title, or payoff info, if applicable) Any extra keys for your trade-in (if applicable) A form of payment for your down payment Having these ready can help streamline your experience. Is it possible to reserve a vehicle? In many situations, yes. If you’ve found a vehicle you don’t want to miss, we may be able to place a temporary hold with a deposit. We recommend reaching out as soon as possible to confirm availability and next steps. Do I need an appointment to stop in? You’re always welcome to visit us without an appointment. That said, scheduling ahead can help ensure a team member is ready for you and that your vehicle of interest is available and prepared when you arrive. Ready to Get Started? From capable GMC trucks to versatile SUVs and dependable pre-owned options, St. Johnsbury GMC is here to help you find the right fit. Reach out to our team today with any questions or to take the next step. We’re here to make your car-buying experience simple and enjoyable.