Winter tires are essential for safe driving in cold weather, providing better traction and control on icy and snowy roads. As extreme winter weather becomes more common due to climate change, the importance of winter tires has grown significantly.
A recent survey by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC) found that almost 73% of Canadian drivers think winter tires are more important now due to worsening weather.
The survey also shows that 78% of Canadians use winter tires, up from 68% in 2016. Outside Quebec, where winter tires are required by law, 73% of drivers use them.
Despite this increase, some drivers are hesitant to buy winter tires due to high living costs, with nearly 30% saying they are less likely to buy them now. However, 83% of drivers still believe winter tires are a good investment, even with rising costs.
So, how can you make sure you can afford and properly care for winter tires to stay safe during the cold weather?
Here’s what you need to know when it comes to budgeting for winter tires, finding deals and maintaining them to maximize their lifespan.
Are winter tires worth it?
Winter tires have special tread patterns and rubber that stay flexible in low temperatures, giving you a better grip on snow and ice. This means your car can stop faster, reducing braking distances by up to 40% sooner compared to all-season tires, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC).
In Quebec and British Columbia, winter tires are mandatory by law during the coldest months of the year . However, in all other provinces, winter tires are strongly encouraged. Using winter tires can also protect your investment in your vehicle by reducing wear and tear on all-season or summer tires, extending their lifespan.
Not only that, drivers who have a full set of winter tires may be eligible for a 5% discount on their auto insurance.
Read more: Top 5 safety tips for winter driving in Ontario
How much do winter tires cost?
Winter tires in Canada typically cost between $100 and $300 per tire, which means the total cost for a full set of four winter tires could range from $400 to $1,200, depending on the brand, type, and size.
Additional costs for professional installation, which includes mounting and balancing, can range from $60 to $100.
How to save money on winter tires
While getting winter tires can be expensive, there are ways to help you save money:
Shop early and look for discounts
Buying winter tires early in the season can save you money, as prices tend to be lower before the peak demand hits. Additionally, keep an eye out for rebates, promotions, and seasonal discounts offered by tire manufacturers and retailers
Bundle deals
Many tire shops and dealerships offer package deals for tires and rims. Installing winter tires on separate rims not only saves you money in the long run but also extends the life of your tires by making seasonal changes easier and less wear-intensive.
Take advantage of financing options
Many tire retailers offer financing plans that allow you to spread the cost of winter tires over several months. This can make the purchase more manageable and help you avoid a large upfront expense.
Buy used tires
If you’re strapped for cash, consider purchasing used or refurbished winter tires. While new tires will last longer, used winter tires are better than no winter tires at all – as long as they’re not worn down, damaged or cut. You can find good deals on local online marketplaces or through social networks. However, when it comes to buying used winter tires, you’ll want to tread extra carefully.
Related: Winter Car Maintenance Tips That'll Save You Money
How to properly care for winter tires
Taking good care of your winter tires helps them last longer and work better. Here are some easy tips to keep your tires in great shape so you can save money and drive safer:
Store tires properly during the off-season
Proper storage of your winter tires when they’re not in use can extend their lifespan. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Using tire covers can also help protect them.
Leave tires on rims
If possible, leave your winter tires mounted on a separate set of rims. This can save you the cost of mounting and balancing tires each season, which can add up over time. You can often find affordable steel rims at junkyards or online.
Maintain proper tire pressure
Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure can help your winter tires last longer and perform better. Properly inflated tires wear more evenly and can even improve fuel efficiency, which can help reduce both your fuel costs and emissions.
Rotate your tires regularly
Rotating your tires means moving them from one position on your vehicle to another, such as from front to back or side to side. Doing this every 5,000 to 8,000 miles helps guarantee even wear, which can extend their lifespan and improve performance. This is especially important for winter tires, as they need to maintain optimal tread depth for better traction on snow and ice.
Read next: Tips to avoid winter accidents
Can you switch out two tires at a time?
People might replace only two tires with winter tires due to budget constraints, sudden weather changes, or stock shortages. However, using four winter tires is always the safest option, especially during sudden maneuvers or emergency braking.
Using all four winter tires makes sure that there is balanced handling and maximum grip on all four corners of your vehicles. But if you can only install two tires, they should always be placed on the rear axle, regardless of whether your vehicle is front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), or all-wheel drive (AWD). Here’s why:
Placing winter tires on the rear axle helps prevent oversteer, which is when the rear of the vehicle loses traction and slides out. Oversteer can be particularly dangerous because it can lead to a loss of control, especially on slippery roads.
The rear tires provide stability to the vehicle. If the rear tires have less traction than the front tires, the rear end can slide out during turns or sudden lane changes, leading to potential spin-outs.
During braking, weight transfers to the front of the vehicle, but the rear tires still play an important role in maintaining control. Having winter tires on the rear axle guarantees that the vehicle remains stable and predictable during braking.
Keep in mind that while switching only two tires might seem cost-effective, it’s important to consider the potential safety risks. The cost of an accident far outweighs the savings from not purchasing two additional tires.
Winter tires are important for safe, cost-effective winter driving, offering better traction and control in harsh conditions. Prioritize your safety by planning ahead—budget for a full set instead of just two and take proper care of them.
Don't waste time calling around for auto insurance
Use RATESDOTCA to shop around, and compare multiple quotes at the same time.
