Fall is here so we know what’s next. In order to avoid the mad rush to get your winter tires installed, make an appointment now.
I know, we know, it’s crazy to think that the summer of 2019 is already behind us. And no matter how blisteringly hot it was, we all know what comes after the leaves are done changing colour. Old-Man winter is just around the corner and you need to start getting ready.
We don’t like it more than you do but remember last November, when the first snow-fall hit and you had to drive for an entire week on your summer tires? Best for you to avoid the same situation this year.
There’s no perfect time to get the tires done, only that they need to be on especially if you live in and above the snowbelt. If we were betting guys, we’d call the local tire shop this week and make an appointment for no later than early November. Snow might come before this time, particularly if you live in the Prairies, but odds are that the white stuff will melt after a few days in October.
Not sure which tires to shop for? As with most other consumables, you always get what you pay for. There are many “cheap” tires out there but they are exactly that. Brands like Yokohama, Bridgestone, Toyo, Michelin and Nokian provide us consumers with a vast array of options, from the affordable kind, to the best winter rubbers for all conditions money can buy.
I, for one, am a huge fan of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3. I have a set on my 2018 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen with 4MOTION AWD. They offer an aggressive tread pattern designed for improved snow and ice traction. They’re not the least expensive nor the most, but they deliver confidence-inspiring grip and traction when needed. Other options include the Yokohama Ice Guard IG52c or IG53 and the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80.
You shouldn’t put a price on safety.
