As seasons change, your vehicle needs will also change. Tires are a great example of something you need to be aware of when fall leans into winter. When is the best time to put on winter tires? As winter begins you want your snow tires to perform well. Around mid-November, warmer temperatures start fading and the first snowflakes appear.

Canada can have harsh winters, with a first snowfall and cold temperatures starting in autumn and lasting into spring in some provinces, and winter tires perform differently than summer tires making them a necessary part of prepping your vehicle for winter conditions. Another important factor is where in Canada you will experience winter driving since requirements for switching to the use of winter tires vary by province.

When to Add Winter Tires in Saskatchewan

For motorists who live or drive in Saskatchewan, you are not required to add winter tires to your vehicle, but winter tires are highly recommended to help drivers handle harsh Canadian road conditions and prevent your car from sliding off the road when cornering. It is generally recommended that winter tires be installed on your vehicle around the first of October and remain on until the end of April. The amount of time you drive with winter tires depends on how often you drive, and if you routinely visit other provinces that have more adverse weather conditions.

Cold Weather Driving and Seasonal Tires

In some areas, motorists can be provided incentives to make the changeover such as decreased insurance rates or other safe driving incentives, but snow tires are not mandatory. Incentives typically start when making a tire change from summer tires to winter tires before the temperatures drop to 7 degrees Celsius or colder. Temperature drops can vary greatly, especially at the beginning and end of winter, so it’s vital to pay attention to conditions in your general area. You may also wonder about the use of studded tires. Are studded tires legal in Saskatchewan? Yes, they are legal to use on your vehicle year-round; however, it is recommended to replace the studded tires with those without studs in the warmer seasons to help prevent road damage. You should also be aware of any restrictions that may be imposed in other provinces such as Ontario or British Columbia when deciding when to put winter tires on your vehicle.

Other Considerations

The rubber compound of winter tires is softer than warmer weather treads. Braking distance varies due to weather conditions such as icy roads as well. You also want to note tread depth and tread wear when examining your winter tires. 

The type of tire is also important when considering which ones to purchase and your professionals at FFUN dealerships can help you choose the best tires year-round for your automotive needs in warm weather or cold. Let FFUN help you transport Canada’s people everywhere they need to go on the proper season tires.