All-Season vs Winter Tires: What’s Best for Ontario Roads? - Cut Price Autocentre

When you live in a climate like Ontario’s, where you can experience +30°C summers and -20°C winters, choosing the right tires is crucial. Many drivers ask: Are all-season tires enough, or do I really need winter tires?

Understanding the Difference

All-Season Tires

Designed to handle a variety of conditions—dry, wet, and light snow—all-season tires offer a balanced performance. But they lose grip at temperatures below 7°C.

Winter Tires

Made from a softer rubber compound, winter tires stay flexible in cold temperatures and have tread patterns designed to grip snow and ice. They’re ideal for Ontario’s icy and snowy winters.

Legal Requirements

In Quebec, winter tires are mandatory from December to March, but in Ontario, they’re not required by law. Still, many insurance companies offer discounts for using them.

When to Switch

Experts recommend switching to winter tires when the daily temperature consistently drops below 7°C. This is usually around late October or early November in Ontario.

Storage Tips

If you’re changing tires seasonally, store your unused set in a cool, dry place—and make sure they’re clean and properly labeled.

Looking for Tire Services?

Cut Price Autocentre in Hamilton offers expert advice, installation, and tire storage options. Book your seasonal tire change today!