
Minnesota Driving Quirk – Frigid Temps Cause Square Tires In Minnesota
It's sure a good time to hibernate in Minnesota! We woke up with many places in the -30 F range across half of Minnesota. The arctic blast stretches from the Midwest, all the way to the South. (Yes Florida declared a State Of Emergency because they were going to be in the 50s).
There's cold weather, and then there's this brutal cold weather. We're good for usually at least a couple of real frigid cold snaps each winter. When it gets below -20 F, strange things start to happen. Uninsulated pipes freeze in your home. Your car won't start.

Windshield wiper fluid can freeze (if you don't get the right kind in winter). When you do get your car started and you make your way down the road, you may notice a rough ride. Maybe a low tire light is on.
What are square tires?
Square tires are a term used to describe how your tires may act in extreme cold weather. When the temperature drops, the air is less dense, meaning the air in your tires will contract and you'll lose some pressure. This can cause the tires to be a little deflated and create flat spot on the bottom of your tire. See the dad joke: "I've got a flat tire, but it's only flat on the bottom!"
It takes a while for your tires to warm up when driving for the rubber to soften up, so for the first few miles you may feel a rough ride. That's because the rubber is so firm and lopsided on your tire that it will cause a shaking.
Read More: Why -40 Is A Magical Number In Minnesota
How do you fix it?
First, if you're not driving winter tires, do yourself a favor and get a set. The rubber is softer and they provide better grip in the winter.
Once you drive for a little while, the rubber will soften on the tire and it will smooth out. Make sure you fill the air in your tire to the proper amount, and keep an eye on your tire pressure when extreme temperature drops like this happen.
LOOK: The most extreme temperatures in the history of every state
Gallery Credit: Anuradha Varanasi