Let’s be honest…winter tires are a no-brainer in Ontario’s winters. Studies have shown that winter tires reduce the risk of accidents by up to 5% every year. It’s no surprise; winter tires improve acceleration and steering in snowy and icy conditions. And quality tires from a trusted tire shop will cut braking distances by around 25%.
Some provinces, such as Quebec, require drivers to install winter tires during the winter months. But what do Ontario’s winter tire laws say? In this blog, we’ll tell you all about Ontario’s winter tire laws.
Are Winter Tires Required Under Ontario Law?
In Ontario, there’s no legal requirement to equip your vehicle with winter tires. However, considering the unpredictable and often harsh winter conditions, having them is highly recommended.
Winter tires are specifically designed to handle cold temperatures, snow, ice, and slush, providing better traction and control compared to all-season tires. Opting for winter tires can significantly enhance your safety on the road during the colder months.
Winter Tires Can Help Lower Your Insurance Premium
Did you know that installing winter tires could save you money on your insurance premium? In Ontario, many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who equip their vehicles with winter tires during the colder months.
This isn’t just a promotional offer—it’s an acknowledgment of the increased safety that winter tires provide. With their superior grip and handling in snow, ice, and slush, winter tires reduce the likelihood of accidents, which in turn lowers the risk for insurance providers.
Many auto insurers offer a 5% discount on the annual premium for installing winter tires between October and March. To find out if you are eligible for it (and when you are required to install winter tires), speak to your insurance provider.
When Should You Install Winter Tires in Ontario?
Caption: Winter tires reduce braking distances on snowy and icy roads; United
Timing is everything when it comes to installing winter tires in Ontario. It’s generally recommended to switch to winter tires when the temperature consistently drops below 7°C.
At this point, the rubber in all-season tires starts to harden, reducing their effectiveness on cold roads. Winter tires, on the other hand, are designed to remain flexible in lower temperatures, providing better grip and stability.
Ideally, you should have your winter tires installed by late October or early November to ensure you’re prepared for the first snowfall. Waiting too long could leave you unprepared for sudden changes in weather, compromising your safety on the road.
When Can You Use Studded Tires in Ontario?
In Ontario, the use of studded tires is regulated and primarily restricted to residents of Northern Ontario, where harsh winter conditions often necessitate extra traction. Studded tires can be used in communities including Parry Sound, Thunder Bay and Algoma.
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) allows studded tires in this region from October 1 to April 30, aligning with similar regulations in Quebec and Manitoba. These tires are particularly effective on icy roads, especially wet ice, where they provide superior grip compared to regular winter tires.
The current regulations permit the use of Scandinavian-standard lightweight studs, which are much less damaging to roads, reducing pavement wear by about 75% compared to the older, heavier studs.
It’s important to note that residents of Southern Ontario are not permitted to use studded tires. This is due to the relatively milder winter conditions, maintained road surfaces, and higher traffic volumes in the south, which make studded tires unnecessary and potentially damaging.
The softer limestone used in Southern Ontario’s pavement is more susceptible to damage from studs, which can also create dust and lower air quality. For these reasons, the use of studded tires remains specific to Northern Ontario, where the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks.
If you are in southern Ontario, using studded tires can result in a fine of up to $1,000.
Learn more about your vehicle from the experts at The Mufflerman – stay safe out there:
- Getting a Safety Inspection
- 7 Tips for Keeping Your Car’s Air Conditioning in Top Shape
- How to Prepare Your Car for Summer Road Trips
- 6 Vehicle Noises You Shouldn’t Ignore
Are Your Tires Winter Rated? Look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake
When choosing winter tires, it’s crucial to ensure they are truly equipped for harsh winter conditions.
The easiest way to verify this is by looking for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol on the tire’s sidewall. This symbol indicates that the tire has been tested and certified to perform in severe snow conditions.
If you are buying winter tires, they absolutely must have the 3PMSF symbol. If they don’t, it’ll mean your tires are not winter-rated; you could receive a fine for using them in a province that requires winter tires. Your insurer may also not recognize your tires as winter tires, causing issues in your claim, if you need to file one for an accident in the winter months.
Visit a Trusted Tire Shop to Install Winter Tires
When it comes to preparing your vehicle for winter, trusting the right tire shop is key. At The Mufflerman, we’re committed to ensuring your safety on the road with our expert tire services.
Our team is experienced in installing winter tires that meet the specific demands of Ontario’s winter conditions. Whether you need help selecting the right winter-rated tires or require professional installation, we’re here to help.
Don’t wait until the first snowfall—visit one of our convenient locations across Ontario and let us get your vehicle ready for the season. Book your appointment today and drive confidently this winter.
We offer a full suite of tire services, including:
- Comprehensive tire shop with all major brands and makes of tires
- Competitively priced tire changes, wheel alignment and tire repair
- Vehicle repairs
- Vehicle servicing
Browse a comprehensive selection of winter tires and all-weather tires in our store, and schedule a tire change while you’re at it.
If you have any questions about availability or cost, our team will be happy to help you.
We sell, install and repair winter tires at 12 locations across southern Ontario.
