When to Change Your Winter Tires in BC
When to Change Your Winter Tires in BC
Posted on December 4, 2023
With the arrival of the crisp Canadian winter air, it's time for drivers in British Columbia to think about winter tires. Essential for safety and stability on snowy and icy roads, winter tires are not just an option but a necessity in the province, especially when temperatures dip below 7 degrees Celsius.
Mandatory Winter Tire Regulations in BC
In British Columbia, winter tires or all-season mud & snow tires are legally required on certain highways from October 1 to April 30. This includes routes like Highway 3 Crowsnest and Highway 5 Coquihalla. On other highways, such as Highway 99 Sea to Sky, the requirement ends on March 31. Signs along these highways clearly indicate the mandatory winter tire zones.
Choosing the Right Winter Tires
Winter tires, identified by the 3-peaked mountain/snowflake (“Alpine”) logo, are specially designed for snow traction, surpassing the performance of all-season mud & snow (M+S) tires in severe snowy conditions. While all-season M+S tires meet BC's winter tire requirements with a minimum tread depth of 3.5mm, investing in proper winter tires is highly recommended for optimal safety.
Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires
All-season tires, despite their name, are more suited for spring to fall conditions. For BC’s cold winters, it’s advisable to use winter tires for better grip and safety. Another option is all-weather tires, which carry the 3-peaked mountain/snowflake logo and can be used year-round. However, they may wear out faster due to continuous use.
Cost-Effective Tire Choices
The cost of a set of winter tires ranges between $400 and $800, similar to all-season and all-weather tires. Though purchasing two sets (winter and all-season) involves an initial double investment, it can be more cost-effective in the long run as each set lasts longer due to seasonal use.
DIY Tire Change: Tools and Costs
For those who prefer DIY, changing winter tires requires tools like a service jack, safety stands, lug wrench, breaker bar, and a compressor. If you'd rather leave it to the professionals, tire change services are available at automotive shops, ranging from $60 to $100 for installation, balancing, and pressure checks.
Drop by O'Connor Dodge Today
Preparing your vehicle for winter in BC is crucial, and at O'Connor Dodge, we’re here to help. Whether you need advice on the best winter tires for your vehicle or professional tire change services, our expert team in British Columbia is ready to assist.