COVID-19: Winter tire season headed for a blowout this year?
With all the snowbirds staying put in Quebec this winter, the many motorists who’ve worn out their winter tires by driving on them all summer (which really isn’t a good idea), and the current labour shortage, the COVID-19 pandemic could put even more pressure on winter tire season this year. That’s why you’ll need to be on top of it, especially if you’re someone in need of four new tires.
This fall more than ever, you’ll want to make an appointment to have your winter tires installed as soon as possible to make sure you head into the snowy season with peace of mind. You don’t want to be caught off-guard if the white stuff starts falling earlier than expected! After all, 2020 is sure to still have a few surprises in store…
It’s hard to say for sure if we can expect a shortage of winter tires—or people to install them. In any case, given the unusual situation this year, it’s definitely a good idea to plan to get your winter tires put on earlier than usual. But when? There’s no time like the present, especially if you need new tires. Contact your trusted mechanic or a CAA-Quebec Approved Auto Repair Service Location today!
Starting December 1, winter tires are mandatory…
This rule set out in the Highway Safety Code requires all passenger vehicles on Quebec roads to be equipped with winter tires bearing the mountain and snowflake symbol from December 1 to March 15.
If your car is not equipped with winter tires in good condition between those dates, you could face a fine of $200 to $300, plus fees.
Keep in mind that the law changed in 2019 to move the mandatory winter deadline up from December 15 to December 1.
…But sooner is better!
It’s best to avoid the rush and get a head start on winter driving. With garages expected to be jam-packed this fall, it’s better to have your tires installed early so you don’t get stuck without an appointment, driving on illegal tires that put you at greater risk of an accident.
Based on temperature readings taken by MétéoMédia, CAA-Quebec suggests that everyone should have their winter tires installed by no later than mid-November. That’s why since last year, we’ve designated the first week of October as Official Winter Tire Appointment Week!
And if you’re someone who’s comfortable changing your own tires, be sure to follow each of these steps to the letter (in French only). But CAA-Quebec still recommends that you go with the professionals to make sure your tires are properly fitted and installed.
Quick guide to buying winter tires
CAA-Quebec has put together a quick guide to buying winter tires. If you’re a member, you can also contact our Automotive Advisory Services experts to find out which tire you need based on where, how, and what you drive.
Although the law stipulates that your tires must have a tread depth of at least 2/32 of an inch, CAA-Quebec recommends starting the season with a minimum depth of 6/32 of an inch. You can calculate your tread depth using a depth gauge, a low-cost tool available at many big box stores. In a pinch you could use the “quarter test” (in French only) to get a rough idea of your tread depth. According to CAA-Quebec, this depth is the minimum you need to stay safe on the road, and you should think of it as a point of reference that tells you it’s time to buy new tires.
When you do decide to change your winter tires, you’ll have to take various factors into account. You need to carefully identify your needs to find the right tire for your vehicle and the way you drive. These factors can include your driving style, the surface you drive on most, whether you live in a city or out in the country, and so on.
Once you’ve determined your driving profile, you can pick the right size tire for your vehicle, driving style, and budget.