When Should You Change Your Tires For The Winter?
When Should You Change Your Tires For The Winter?
Posted on December 4, 2023
Safety on the roads is key. So before the temperatures plummet, remember to winterize your tires. This is an essential step before winter hits. Below-freezing temperatures can harden the tire’s rubber. This diminishes their grip on the road’s surface, increasing the chances of having an accident, especially in wet or snowy conditions. Winter tire rubber maintains flexibility in cold temperatures, ensuring a better grip on the road.
Winter Tire Pros
Compared to all-season and all-weather tires, winter tires improve stability and traction in wet and snowy conditions when temperatures drop below seven degrees Celsius. You also need to consider the regulations in your province.
If you reside in Ontario, you’ll be happy to know that an insurance premium reduction of up to 5% can be awarded if you ensure your winter tires are fitted. Ontario covers a large area, so it’s difficult to pinpoint when the temperatures will drop below seven degrees Celsius in your exact area. However, late October to mid-November is the approximate time for this weather.
Locate the Logo
If you see the Alpine logo on the winter tires, you can rest assured that they are certified and have met specific performance criteria. The logo is a three-peaked mountain or snowflake. These tires have undergone stringent snow testing to ensure their snow traction skills surpass all-season tires. Winter and all-weather tires undergo testing to acquire the Alpine logo.
Winter Tire Removal
It’s important to remember the winter tire change. While winter tires are essential to your vehicle in adverse weather conditions, it’s important to remember to remove them when the temperatures warm up. Winter tires are designed for icy and snowy road conditions. When the road surfaces are heated by the sun, winter tires can become a safety hazard and may cost you money in the long run. Watch the weather reports as spring approaches to see when the temperature rises above seven degrees.
Changing your tires can be done at home or by a professional. If you choose to do it yourself, the essential tools include a service jack, safety stand, lug wrench, breaker bar, and a compressor. Alternatively, the tools included in your vehicle’s tire-changing kit can also be used.
Many automotive garages and tire businesses offer tire-changing services. Canadian Tire and Kal Tire are popular options. The procedure includes the installation and balancing of the tires. The tire pressure is also checked. The prices will vary but usually range between $60 to $100.
Winter Tires in Bracebridge
Are you looking for the perfect winter tire in Bracebridge, Ontario? Come to Muskoka Nissan for all your tire needs!