Four Winter Tires, and Clean Wheels at Changeover
Ontario says winter tires improve traction in frost, snow and ice and can shorten braking distances by as much as 25 per cent, and that all-season tires can start losing grip at 7 degrees. You may also qualify for an insurance discount, so ask your provider. Changeover day is a good time to deal with the salt and brake dust baked onto your wheels.
What Ontario and Hamilton Say
Use four
The province says to install four winter tires and never mix tire types on one vehicle. The three-peak mountain snowflake symbol marks a tire designed for severe snow.
Studs in southern Ontario
Studded tires are allowed on vehicles registered in Northern Ontario. In Southern Ontario they are not allowed unless you are visiting from out of province or live in Northern Ontario (ontario.ca).
Cold, not just snow
The City of Hamilton points out that regular tires lose grip below zero even without snow, and that depending on your policy you may be eligible for a winter tire discount.
Changeover Is Wheel-Cleaning Day
Clean before storage
Wheels coming off after winter carry salt and brake dust on the inner barrel, where you never see it. Clean them inside and out before storage and let them dry.
Check pressure
Cold weather brings tire pressure down, the province notes, so check it regularly through winter and again when the season turns.
Rinse the faces often
Wheel faces sit right in the spray. Rinse them every time you rinse the car, and use a cleaner made for wheels.
Common Questions
Are all-season tires good enough?
Ontario says all-season tires are not the same as winter tires and can start to lose grip at 7 degrees. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, and ask your insurer which tires qualify for any discount.
Can I use studded tires in Hamilton?
Not on a vehicle registered in Southern Ontario. The province allows studs on vehicles registered in Northern Ontario, and for visitors from out of province.
Do I need to clean wheels before storing them?
Yes. Salt and brake dust left on all summer are harder to shift later. Clean, dry, then store.
Related Pages
All Guides
Every car care, protection and community guide we have written, in one place.
Book a Changeover Clean
Prefer to talk it through? Call 365-336-3767, Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 4 pm. Work is by appointment.
Book a Service