Are Your Winter Tires Off Yet?

Believe it or not, some drivers in the GTA are still commuting through the city with their winter tires on.

Even though we’re still experiencing chilly evening temperatures, since spring has arrived your winter tires should be packed and stored away for next year.

Leaving your winter tires on doesn’t save you money. In fact, the damage they can do is enough to send your BMW or Land Rover straight to the Service Department.

Here’s what you need to know about making the switch to all-season tires:

Winter Tires and All-Season Tires: What’s the Difference?

Often referred to as all-season tires, your spring and summer tires are engineered in an entirely different process than your winter tires. The deep grooves and tread patterns, and thick rubber compounds found on a set of winter tires are designed to grip cold, icy surfaces. In contrast, all-season tires are designed from a thinner rubber that works wonders against wet, slippery surface conditions. Just as your summer tires are no good on winter roads, your winter tires are no good on spring and summer roads. Busy Toronto roads and highways are warmer and wetter, and it’s important that you have the right pair of tires on to get you to your destination safely.

What’s the Worst That Can Happen?

Worst case scenario, you end up in an accident, or causing an accident. Winter tires and all-season tires are specifically designed differently to accommodate fluctuating driving conditions. It’s impossible to get the same response from your winter tires in the spring and summer because environmental factors have shifted. Once the warmer temperatures kick in, those deep treads and thick rubber aren’t doing you or your luxury vehicle any favours. Plus, thick rubber will wear down very quickly in warm, humid temperatures, so if you thought keeping the winter tires on would save you money, you’re mistaken. Besides a lack of protection to you as a driver, failure to remove your winter tires can cause a great deal of damage to your car, truck, or SUV. In warm weather, your winter tires can’t provide the same handling capabilities, and therefore you must make your vehicle work overtime, resulting in inevitable wear and tear that comes with a hefty repair bill.

This spring, save yourself a trip to the Service Centre. At Somerville Auto, our Spring Service Special is now on until May 31st, 2017. We’ll swap your tires and rims, while topping up your fluids, conducting a 21-point inspection and report, and even toss in a free set of wiper blades! Call us today at 1-(877) 503-5102 or contact us online to book your service appointment.