Winter tires: you're not as early as you think!
At CAA-Québec, we know the drill: summer slowly draws to a close, fall passes like a snap, and then winter’s cold sets in for the season. That’s why we remind motorists to contact their garage owner now to make an appointment to have their winter tires installed.
Does the early bird really get the worm? When it comes to tires, absolutely! Booking an appointment early not only lets you avoid the crowds when the first snow arrives, but it can also save you money. Drivers whose vehicles are still not equipped with winter tires on December 1 face a $200 to $300 fine (plus costs) and put their safety and that of others at risk.
And that’s not all: car owners who book early have access to more inventory, which allows them to compare prices and take advantage of promotional offers. But most importantly, they have the luxury of choosing the winter tires that suits their needs.
 | “No need to have your tires installed right away, but you should at least make an appointment! Everyone wins: motorists because they can choose the product that’s right for them, and garages because they can plan their staffing needs.” - Pierre-Serge Labbé, Vice-President, Mobility Services |
There are many myths surrounding the installation of winter tires. The perfect time to change your tires is when the mercury hovers around 7°C for several days in a row. It’s not true that installing them early in the fall will damage them; it takes several hundred kilometres travelling at high temperatures to cause premature wear.
Good advice from your friendly mechanic
Since buying winter tires is pretty technical, it’s important to ask an expert for advice when shopping around. Durability, traction in deep snow, grip on ice, resistance to aquaplaning: each model has its own characteristics, and taking the time to assess your needs will help you choose the right tire for your lifestyle. Good to know: CAA-Québec members have free access to our Mobility Advisory Services, a mine of valuable information on the subject.
For example, a high-end “ice and snow” tire is particularly good for driving in the city, where black ice often covers road surfaces that appear to be clear. Snow tires with studs might be more suitable for the country.
The benefits of a network of certified partners
Members have the big advantage of being able to access one of the 350 garages in CAA-Quebec’s network of Approved Auto Repair Service Locations. In addition to obtaining an extended warranty on any new or used parts, they have peace of mind knowing that they are being advised by qualified mechanics who meet the highest CAA standards. And as electrification is in vogue, more and more garages have EV Skills certification.
À propos de CAA-Québec
CAA-Quebec offers a wide range of assistance services in a variety of sectors by drawing upon a human approach. Socially committed, the organization strives on a daily basis to defend the interests of its members. And in keeping with its values of reliability and benevolence, it fosters responsible consumption and promotes road safety.
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