Don’t Rush Your Winter Tire Change

It’s been a cold and long winter in Canada and it many regions, it’s not over yet. Although most recent forecasts call for warming temperatures, many drivers are rushing to swap their winter tires for their all-season or summer tires. Is there a need to rush to do this? Young Drivers of Canada suggests that drivers follow several guidelines when it comes to changing over to other tires from winter tires.

Many drivers are concerned that their winter tires will wear out as temperatures rise. Winter tire breakdown will only occur in continued hot conditions. Winter tires will not break down faster in early spring temperatures, which are inconsistent and hover in the 8-12 Celsius range. A few days or even a week or two of driving in slightly warmer temperatures will not cause damage to your winter tires or loss of rapid treadwear.

Also, just because it gets warm for a few days doesn’t mean areas in snow belt regions won’t get snow in April. As an example, the province of Ontario recently experienced two separate cold weather systems that resulted in winter driving conditions including snow, freezing rain and rain, with cold temperatures in the first few weeks of April.

When should drivers switch to their all-season tires? The time to do so depends on the area in which you live in and the weather conditions experienced as winter transitions to spring. Consider making the switch when the daily low-temperature climbs to above freezing nightly and long-term forecasts show no signs of snow or dropping temperatures which could lead to freezing rain/snow combinations. The rule of thumb is consistent daily temperatures of seven degrees Celsius indicate it is time to change the tires.

Young Drivers of Canada suggests the following tips when it comes to changing winter tires to all-season or summer tires.

1. Ensure daily temperatures rise to seven degrees Celsius consistently before making the switch.

2. Inspect your all-season or summer tires to make sure that they are in good working order regarding tread and condition.

3. Tires should be inflated to the correct pressure to allow for maximum stopping capability.

For many Canadians, Spring is an opportunity to hit the road and see some of the most beautiful scenery this country has to offer! Enjoy the privilege of driving!