RADAR
Winter Tire Talk: True or False?
Take this quiz to test your grip on winter tire safety.
By Alexis Nicols
The seasonal switch — discover the right time to put on the snow tires. | PHOTO: DIEDOVSTOCK/ADOBESTOCK
DO YOU SWITCH TO WINTER TIRES? The majority of Canadians do, with 78 percent saying they make the switch each year, according to a 2024 report by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada. But do you know why it’s important? Take this quiz and avoid slipping up on these facts about winter tires.
TRUE OR FALSE: All-season tires are fine and can handle winter conditions; you only need winter tires if it’s very snowy or icy.
FALSE: While it would be nice not to have to do the seasonal switch, all-seasons are not suitable for Canadian winters. There’s a difference between winter tires and all-seasons or summer tires, according to Michael Poulin, chief operations officer at CAA Saskatchewan. Compared to all-season tires, the rubber compound in winter tires is softer and more flexible. This allows for better grip and road traction in cold weather. Snow, slush and ice are often seen as the reason for winter tires, but even clear roads are an issue when the temperature drops. Warm weather keeps all-seasons and summer tires more pliable, hugging the road without excessive wear. While they can handle dry and wet roads, they’re not soft enough for cold weather, and are not as effective when temperatures drop below 7 C.
TRUE OR FALSE: You don’t need to change all four tires; you only need two winter tires on the front.
FALSE: According to Transport Canada, winter tires should always be installed in a matching set of four. They advise not to mix brands, tread patterns or sizes, as this can reduce traction and effectiveness. And make sure that your tires are properly inflated.
Tread plays an important role in winter driving safety. | PHOTO: AARROWS/ENVATO
TRUE OR FALSE: In cold conditions, you should have higher tire pressure so that they’re firmer.
FALSE: But cold air can cause reduced tire pressure, so check the pressure when the tires are out in the cold, and adjust to match the recommended level. Watch for wear — winter tires with less than 4 millimetres of tread won’t perform well in snowy conditions and should be replaced. Winter tires are engineered for cold weather, with materials and tread patterns designed to handle cold weather and grip snow-covered roads. If you delay your tire switch back from summer or all-seasons to winters, it can impact your safety on the road. To keep your tires in optimal condition, follow the 7-for-7 rule: after seven consistent days of temperatures below 7 C, shift to winter tires. This will extend the lifespan of both your winter tires and all-seasons — and will keep you safer on the road.
TRUE OR FALSE: Electric vehicles don’t need winter tires.
FALSE: Specific winter tires are required for electric vehicles (EVs). The higher weight and torque of EVs can wear out standard tires faster. Because availability for EV-rated tires is limited due to low production, make sure you order your EV-rated winter tires early. CAA