Insurance companies in Ontario offer something called a Winter Tire Discount, offering drivers up to 5% off their annual auto insurance rate by installing winter tires on their vehicle.
Icy roads, foggy windows, and falling snow can give even the most experienced drivers difficulty. However, taking simple steps such as installing winter tires on your vehicle and ensuring that your wipers are not deteriorated can make a significant impact. Plus, installing winter tires can help you save money in other ways too.
A 2018 survey found that 76% of Canadians owned winter tires — and as we’ve seen in past years, this number is on the rise. But, did you know that winter tires can provide you savings on your insurance as well?
In Ontario, insurance companies offer something called a Winter Tire Discount, which offers drivers up to 5% off their annual auto insurance rate by installing winter tires on their vehicle. In fact, since January 2016 the Canadian government has required that drivers be offered this discount by their auto insurance company. Even if you have a pre existing insurance policy, you can call them and request you be considered for the discount.
However, installation dates are important. Some insurance companies will require that you have winter tires on your vehicle from November 1st to April 1st in order to qualify. Call your insurance provider on what date they recommend. Winter tire season is one of our busiest times of the year, with high volumes of bookings in late October and November. Be sure to contact us early or stop by your local shop in order to ensure your tires are installed in time. If you’re unsure of what date of installation your insurance provider requires, contact your broker and inquire!
In addition to requiring tires to be installed by a certain date, insurance companies will also require that you have winter tires on all four wheels.
It’s also important to note that all-season tires do not qualify for the discount. Although many consumers opt for all season tires believing that they’re synonymous with winter tires, all season tires are only suitable for winter driving in conditions as mild as 7C. Winter tires offer drivers superior traction and increased safety. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of winter tires, read our blog Winter Tires 101.
At The Mufflerman, we are proud to be your certified auto specialists. With 12 Mufflerman locations across Ontario in London, Chatham, Sarnia, St.Thomas, Strathroy, Woodstock, Stratford, Brantford, Kitchener and Cambridge, we are in your neighbourhood and ready to serve you. Contact us soon to pre book your winter tire swap appointment.