What to Know About Your Tires in the Winter Months

Posted November 17, 2016

It’s a season that you either love or hate. If you enjoy skiing, skating, tobogganing, and snowshoeing, then you probably love it. If you enjoy sun tanning, gardening, water skiing, and bbqing, then you probably hate it. We’re talking about winter.

The one thing that most people can probably agree on is that winter makes for treacherous driving conditions: traffic jams, slippery roads, whiteout conditions, and snow piles. In the winter we all know that we need to slow down on the roads but did you know that there are many things to consider about your vehicle in the winter? Here are some tips that might be unfamiliar:

Tire Pressure Drops in Cold Weather

Did you know that your tire pressure will drop about 1 – 2 pounds with every 10 degree drop in temperature? In the winter it is even more important to regularly check your tire pressure since a slow leak could quickly become a flat tire. We suggest that you check your tire pressure once every two weeks. If you’re unsure what your optimum tire pressure is, you can find it in your owner’s manual or on the sticker on your side door.

Winter Tires Have a Snowflake Symbol

Did you know that certified winter tires have a snowflake symbol on them? Don’t be fooled by cheap winter tires. Check the sidewall of the tire to ensure that you are buying a reputable winter tire.

You Can Buy Winter Wheels

Did you know that you can buy winter wheels to mount on your winter tires? By mounting your winter tires on winter wheels, it will save you time and money each time you come in for your tire changeover. It will also keep your aluminum wheels looking great because they won’t be damaged by the harsh salt and gravel on winter roads.

Winter Tires Are Mandatory in Some Provinces

Did you know that there are different winter tire laws in each province? Quebec requires four winter tires to be on every vehicle from December 15 to March 15. If you’re driving on certain mountainous roads in British Columbia between October 1 and April 30, you’re required to have winter tires on your vehicle. If you’re travelling through these provinces, be sure to know the winter tire laws.

There are many things to consider in the winter time so stayed tuned to our blog for more information or drop into one of our Integra Tire locations and one of our experts will be happy to help you!

Questions? Our Advisors are Happy to Help!

If you have questions about anything you've read in this resource page, contact your nearest dealer for more information. We are passionate in assisting our customers make the best choices to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape and keep their families safe.