The changing season means it’s time for a tire change, too. Here’s why.

When the weather warms, we trade winter coats for lighter jackets, and swap snow boots for sneakers. Just as we adjust clothing for the seasons, we should do the same for our vehicle’s tires.

Wearing sandals in the snow isn’t practical, and neither is keeping winter tires on when temperatures rise. It can hurt your car’s performance, safety, and efficiency. Some drivers delay switching tires due to cost, but changing them on time saves money, improves safety, and enhances driving. Here’s why tire maintenance should be a priority this spring.

1) Save Money by Switching Your Tires

You might think delaying your tire change will save you money, but the opposite is true. Winter tires are designed with a softer rubber compound to provide traction in cold conditions. When driven on warm pavement, this softer rubber wears down faster, shortening the lifespan of your tires. That means you’ll be replacing them sooner than necessary, resulting in an unnecessary expense.

Beyond that, winter tires create more rolling resistance on warm roads, which leads to increased fuel consumption. That’s money coming out of your pocket every time you fill up at the pump. By swapping to summer or all-season tires when the weather warms up, you’ll reduce fuel costs and extend the life of your winter tires, making both sets last longer.

Related: Over 14,000 scrap tires collected at events held across BC in 2024

2) Improve Road Safety

Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, making them a critical component when it comes to safety. Proper tire maintenance can help prevent accidents, especially in wet or changing weather conditions. This includes checking pressure, rotating tires, and monitoring tread depth.

Winter tires are built for cold, icy conditions, meaning they don’t provide the same level of grip, stability, or handling once temperatures rise. The softer rubber can become too flexible in the heat, leading to longer braking distances and reduced control. Switching to summer or all-season tires ensures your car performs optimally, keeping you safe on the road.

3) Enhance Your Driving Experience

If you’re driving with the right tires for the season, you’ll notice the difference immediately. Summer and all-season tires are designed for warmer conditions, with a firmer rubber compound and reinforced sidewalls that provide better grip, precise steering, and increased stability.

When your car responds better to braking and steering inputs, you enjoy a smoother, more controlled drive. Whether navigating winding roads, stopping suddenly in traffic, or handling a spring rainstorm, the right tires can make all the difference.

When Should You Change Your Tires?

A simple guideline is to switch to winter tires when temperatures consistently drop below 7°C and change back to summer or all-season tires once it’s regularly above that mark. In many parts of BC, that means spring is the perfect time to book your tire change and ensure your vehicle is ready for the warmer months.

What to Do with Your Old Tires?

When it’s time for a new set, don’t let your old tires pile up in your garage. In BC, tire recycling is free and accessible. When you change your tires at a participating retailer, they will collect and recycle your old ones. Your tires will then be given a new life as playground surfaces, running tracks, products for farm animals, and even flooring materials.

You can recycle your old tires for free at a location near you, or visit one of our tire collection events, coming to a city near you starting in April. By choosing to recycle, you’re not only reducing waste but also contributing to a cleaner, greener BC. It’s an easy way to do your part in protecting the environment while ensuring your vehicle is equipped for the season ahead.

Make the Smart Choice This Spring

Changing your tires might seem like an inconvenient task, but it will have a positive impact on your vehicle’s safety, efficiency, and longevity. Making the switch at the right time means a smoother ride, lower fuel costs, and peace of mind knowing you’re driving safely in the right conditions.