When and Why Should You Change Seasonal Tires?
When and Why Should You Change Seasonal Tires?
Posted on January 21, 2025
Road safety depends on the condition and choice of a vehicle’s tires. To prevent risks, reduce costs related to premature wear, and maintain optimal fuel efficiency, drivers must understand why, when, and how to select the right seasonal parts. Here are the answers to these questions.
Why change your tires according to the seasons?
There are different types of tires, each designed to meet specific conditions. Improper use can lead to significant issues. Summer tires lose their grip when temperatures drop because their rubber hardens, increasing the risk of slipping on wet or snowy roads.
Winter tires, on the other hand, remain flexible at low temperatures, offer superior traction, and shorten braking distances, even in extreme conditions. Using these tires in summer can compromise safety and cause premature wear.
Their rubber, too soft for high temperatures, deteriorates quickly and also increases fuel consumption. Summer tires, designed for warmer temperatures, ensure stable and precise driving on dry or wet roads.
Using parts suited for seasonal conditions helps reduce overall vehicle wear and limits maintenance costs. This practice even reduces the environmental impact due to improved energy efficiency.
When should you change your tires?
Switching from summer tires to winter tires should be done when daily average temperatures in a region are below 7°C. There's no need to wait for the first snowfall or icy roads to switch to the appropriate equipment. In Quebec, it is recommended to do so around October 15 and before the December 1 deadline. After this date, winter tires are mandatory across the country until March 15.
On many roads in British Columbia, except in Greater Vancouver, this rule applies throughout the period from October 1 to March 31. It may even extend until April 30 on certain roads due to snowstorms, especially in mountainous areas.
The best time to return to summer or all-season tires is when the average temperature exceeds 7°C for several consecutive days. This typically happens around mid- to late April.
How to choose your seasonal tires?
Start by checking the exact dimensions of the tires. This information can be found on the sidewall of your current seasonal tires or in the vehicle manual. Adhering to the correct dimensions, as well as load and speed ratings, ensures perfect compatibility with your car and avoids imbalance.
Driving habits should also be considered. If the driver regularly covers long distances, it is better to pick tires that offer good wear resistance and low fuel consumption. For urban driving, opt for versatile models that can handle frequent stops and provide excellent road holding.
Finally, consider the value-for-money aspect. Well-known brands often offer more durable and reliable products, justifying a higher initial investment. Vehicle owners should consult European labels to compare performance in terms of braking, fuel consumption, and noise levels.
Seasonal tires for a durable vehicle
Changing your tires according to the seasons ensures safe and suitable driving. However, it's important to do so at the right time. Well-chosen seasonal tires also reduce wear and optimize vehicle performance. For professional service and personalized advice, you can trust Auto Clairmount Longueuil with your tire change today.