The temperature has dropped down below zero on several mornings and now, it is that time of year to change the tyres on the car, ready for winter. The problem is, that my winter tyres need replacing and one of them has a bolt in it anyway, so can't be driven at all. I was hoping I could hold off until mid-November, but it looks like I am going to have to get them soon. Good winter tyres are vital, and for a set, it is around about 900€ plus fitting.
I was recommended a place that is a bit cheaper by a colleague, and will likely drop in there tomorrow to see what they have on offer. Hopefully, I will also be able to book a time to get them changed, as everywhere can be very busy at this time of year.
I am not the only one changing tyres at the moment.
While I knew this was coming, I am still not keen on dropping almost a grand on the car now, especially since they will likely only last three seasons or so. Cars are already expensive here, but maintenance and other costs make it even worse. However, we need one car in the family and it would be easier if we had two. Though, that is definitely not on the cards.
At the start of next year, my work office moves from a business center out on the other side of the city from us, to a block in the city center. This makes it far easier for me to catch a bus, which means my wife can take the car more to her own work. This is also why good tyres are needed - because I am not the only one driving the car and there is "probably" a difference in skill, especially under slippery, winter conditions.
I have become a far better driver since driving so much in Finland, as there are so many different conditions, plus the cold weather to contend with. At times, it is like driving on a skating rink, even with winter tyres, so it really isn't worth skimping on rubber. There can be some very big performance differences between brands, with the local Nokian Tyres generally performing pretty well in testing at least.
Finland is one of those silly places that rather than be kind to their home markets, prices gouges on the brand recognition instead. As a result, now that there are other options to be found through the internet, the Finnish companies are losing market share. Not just in tyres, but all of their products, as they no longer have a captured audience and have to compete internationally.
All advantages end.
Ah well, it can't be helped. The tyres need to be bought, and I am going to have to pay for them. I was hoping for November, as that is when I will get paid my bonus so it doesn't feel quite as bad to spend that, even though logically I know that it is all the same money and has an identical impact on me financially.
It is weird how the "source of the money" affects how we feel about spending it, or losing it, isn't it?
And speaking of money sources, after a good, long weekend spent mostly with my daughter, I think it is time for me to start wrapping things up and get ready for bed, to head into work tomorrow. Gotta earn some money.
Winter is coming.
Taraz
[ Gen1: Hive ]