Don't wait until the first frost sets in to set up an appointment for snow tires. The time to make the switch is right around the beginning of December.
Experts agree that when the temperature dips below 7°C, it's the perfect time to install winter tires. Unlike all-season tires, snow tires become more flexible in the cold temperature, allowing them to grip and create traction on ice.
If you've already switched out your wheels, you need not worry. While the warm weather can cause the rubber to wear down faster, experts at the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada say putting your winter tires on in late October or November is perfectly safe.
And there's more good news for those who make the yearly swap. Some insurance companies, like Desjardins and CAA, offer a discount if you use winter tires, and earlier this year, Ontario's Minister of Finance announced province-wide insurance discounts for drivers who put on snow tires, which will take effect on Jan. 1, 2016.
However, as Wheels.ca points out, be careful if you agree to these conditions — it could mean, for example, if you're in a collision and don't have winter tires on your car, your insurance might not cover you.
When installing snow tires TRAC recommends changing all four tires to ensure car stability and control, whether you drive in the city, suburbs or country.
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