How to choose the right winter tires for your car
Finding the right winter tires for your car is important this time of the year. Having winter tires can help keep you and your family safe during the cold winter months when the roads are full of slush, snow and ice. There are also monetary benefits to choosing the right winter tires for your car, such as lower insurance premiums.
In some provinces (like Quebec) winter tires are mandatory, and in other provinces, although having winter tires on your car isn't mandatory, there are tax benefits to having them. Now the only question to ask is: how do you choose the right winter tires for your car?
Decide if you need winter tires
If you live in a part of Canada where winter tires aren't mandatory and the winter weather isn't too harsh, you may not need them. If the cost of tires (which can be up to $1,000 or more) doesn't add any benefit to your driving, then they may not be worth the expense.
Maybe you need winter snow tires
Snow tires are helpful if you live in a part of the country with a large amount of snowfall. These tires have added elasticity and special tread patterns to help drivers get a better grip on roads that have a lot of snow. An ideal location for winter snow tires is a rural spot where it may take a while before snow if cleared from roadways.
Maybe you need winter ice tires
If you live in a part of the country with both snowy and icy roads, these are the tires for you. They are suitable for both city roads as well as long distance driving on highways. Winter ice tires offer extra road grip for steady driving, as well as traction when on icy roads.
Get the logistics right
Once you decide which type of winter tires is best for your car, the next step is to find the right size, make and model for your car, to ensure safe driving. Standard wheels come in 16", 17" or 18" and you can find your tire size in the user manual or purchase agreement (if your car is new).
If you have a modified car, i.e. upgraded from the factory model, it's a good idea to talk to a specialist about choosing the right winter tires for your car. It's important to note that low profile tires are more difficult to get through deep snow and narrow tires can plow through snow much easier.
Contact your insurance company
If you decide having winter tires on your car is a smart option, the next thing to do is contact your insurance company. If your car insurance is up for renewal or you're shopping around for new car insurance, it's a good idea to mention that you installed winter tires on your car. Insurance companies reward safe drivers in the form of lower car insurance premiums and some offer discounts for drivers who have winter tires.
Not only can choosing the right winter tires for your car be a safe choice, it can also lead to savings on your car insurance.