It Gets Cold in Canada
Let’s face it – winters are cold in Canada. The temperatures can plunge without warning, snow can pile up, and ice can turn any surface into a skating rink. When facing frigid road conditions, you want to be confident your vehicle can safely navigate the winter hazards. That’s why it’s important to swap out your summer tires when it gets cold out.
Why Winter Tires?
The problem with regular all-weather tires is that as the weather gets cold, they become less effective. Standard rubber is not designed with colder surfaces in mind, making it harder for them to grip the road, leading to an increased risk of losing traction while stopping or maneuvering.
Winter tires, on the other hand, are specifically designed to offer better flexibility and grip on cold surfaces. Once temperatures dip as low as 7 degrees Celsius, winter tires outperform regular tires in acceleration, braking and handling. They even reduce overall fuel consumption by as much as 5% during those cold times of the year!
Aren’t Winter Tires Expensive?
Yes, and no. There is the initial cost of purchasing winter tires. However, by using winter tires during the colder months of the year, you’re actually reducing wear and tear on your summer tires. By swapping between two sets, you prolong the life of both – in the long term, you could be saving money on regular tire replacement costs.
Are Winter Tires Mandatory?
In Ontario, winter tires are not mandated by law. However, once the temperatures drop to 7 degrees Celsius, they are strongly recommended for all vehicles. Not only do they make your automobile safer to drive and offer better fuel efficiency, but many auto insurance providers offer incentives to those who switch their tires in the winter. If you’ve never invested in winter tires before, this might be the year to reconsider.
If you’re ready to switch to winter tires, don’t hesitate to contact our parts and service department at Downtown Auto Group, today. We’ll help you determine which winter tires are best for your vehicle and you can book an appointment to get those tires changed as soon as possible.