When winter arrives in British Columbia, it brings challenges of navigating snowy and icy roads. Equipping the right set of tires will help to ensure safety and allow drivers to maintain control of their vehicle. This is your guide to everything you need to know about winter tires, including the differences between all-season, all-weather, and winter/snow tires, and how to choose the best tires for your vehicle.
Whether you're a seasoned driver in British Columbia or new to the region, understanding the significance of winter tires and how to choose the right ones is essential.
When should you put winter/snow tires on?
Depending on who you ask, you might get a different answer, but we put our trust in David Zalot, manager of Curtis Tire and Wheel . Our fleet of cars in Abbotsford use Curtis Tire as their first choice when it comes to anything tire related: new tires, patch and repair jobs, and insight. Zalot shares some insight with us today, and says he’s got the magic number for when winter/snow tires should be put on.
“By putting them on by October 15, you've got the coverage to carry you through the end of October and beginning of November,” says Zalot. “It doesn't necessarily even have to snow — all you need is to start having colder weather and a layer of ice on the road, and you're needing your winter tires.”
As we head into winter, being prepared for the worst conditions will help keep you safe on the roads. Zalot notes that many people refer to winter tires as snow tires, which is problematic as a snow tire dictates a seasonal condition. This leads many to think they don’t need to put on their winter tires until it snows, however, this is incorrect. Having winter tires on early in the season allows drivers to be prepared for the first snowfall, and you’re ahead of the rush of people trying to switch out their tires later in the season. This puts an increased demand on local tire shops, and it means that some drivers will be driving in winter conditions without proper tires, which is unsafe.
Why are winter/snow tires important to have equipped?
In British Columbia, winter driving conditions can be quite demanding. From coastal areas with frequent rainfall to mountainous regions with heavy snowfall, the province experiences a wide range of winter weather. Here's why winter tires are vital in this diverse environment.
British Columbia has specific legal requirements and regulations regarding winter tire use in certain areas. From October 1 to March 31, vehicles driving on designated mountain highways must have winter tires or carry tire chains. Failing to comply can result in fines and prevent you from accessing these routes.
Winter tires are designed with a unique rubber compound that remains pliable in cold temperatures, ensuring superior traction on snow and ice. This increased grip is essential for maintaining control on slippery roads. The tread pattern and design of winter tires are optimized for winter conditions. This means better handling and control when navigating through snow, slush, or icy patches. They are also engineered to provide shorter stopping distances on snow and ice, helping to avoid accidents by allowing vehicles to stop more efficiently.
What’s the difference between all-season, all-weather, and winter/snow tires?
All-season tires are designed to perform well in a variety of conditions, making them suitable for moderate climates. They are a compromise between summer and winter tires, which means they may not excel in extreme conditions. While they offer reasonable traction in light snow and rain, all-season tires may not provide the level of grip needed for severe winter weather.
All-weather tires are designed to perform effectively in both summer and winter conditions, making them a suitable option for regions with mild winters. They provide better winter performance than all-season tires but may not be as effective as dedicated snow tires in heavy snowfall. Overall, all-weather tires are a convenient choice for drivers who don't want to switch between summer and winter tires but still need adequate winter performance.
Winter tires, also known as snow tires, are engineered specifically for cold, snowy, and icy conditions. They use a rubber compound that remains flexible at low temperatures, ensuring superior grip on winter roads. Winter tires have deep and aggressive tread patterns that bite into snow and ice, enhancing traction. Their design also provides shorter stopping distances, which is critical for safety on slippery surfaces. When shopping for winter tires, look for the mountain snowflake symbol, which indicates that the tires meet industry standards for winter performance.
How do you buy new winter or snow tires?
Choosing the right winter tires for British Columbia is a crucial decision. Our step-by-step guide will help to ensure you make an informed purchase.
Consider your specific driving needs. Are you in an area with heavy snowfall or mostly wet and rainy conditions? The choice between all-season, all-weather, or snow tires depends on your location and typical driving conditions.
Check local requirements and regulations. Be aware of local regulations regarding winter tire use, especially if you plan to drive on mountain highways during the winter season.
Four tires instead of two.For optimal performance, it's recommended to install a full set of winter tires rather than just two. This ensures balanced handling and stability.
Research tire ratings and reviews.Online reviews and ratings from fellow drivers can provide valuable insights into the performance of specific tire models. If you’re new to buying winter tires, Zalot suggests sticking to brand names you recognize. “The major manufacturers have always got the big names, and in most cases, you're not paying for the name, you're paying for the technology that they've developed over the years,” says Zalot.
“If you find something that is completely unrecognizable, then generally it's not probably the best option for you. And, it most likely is the price point tire, which will give you the minimum traction that you would need, but still not as good as what a name brand would be.”
Choose the right size.Make sure to select the correct tire size that matches your vehicle. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or check the existing tire size on your vehicle.
Get tires professionally installed. Regularly inspect tire pressure, tread wear, and overall tire condition throughout the winter season. Winter tires should also be rotated front to back every seven to 10,000 kilometers, depending on what type of vehicle they’re equipped on. Once the season is over, winter tires should be removed from your vehicle in the spring. Zalot recommends March, as the longer you keep them on, the more wear you’ll have on them. Keeping up with maintenance will help preserve your winter tires longer.
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Winter tires can be a necessity in British Columbia, where the diverse landscape and varying weather conditions demand the utmost in safety and control. Understanding the differences between all-season, all-weather, and winter tires is the first step in making the right choice for your vehicle. Equipping yourself with this knowledge means that equipping the right tires will be even easier!