While winter officially begins in December, there are important reasons to switch to winter tires before then. October is considered the start of tire change season for good reason: Winter tires or chains are mandatory on most major routes in BC from October 1 to April 30. Weather and road conditions in many parts of the province can become hazardous earlier than winter officially begins.
This is especially true in mountainous or high-elevation areas. It’s best to have your winter tires installed now to ensure your vehicle is ready before road conditions change.

It’s not just about following the rules though, there are other benefits to changing your tires now. Here are 5 more reasons to change your tires now:

1) Be Prepared For Unpredictable Weather Changes

In many parts of BC, particularly in the Interior, Northern BC, and mountainous areas, snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can occur as early as October. Without proper tires, these conditions can pose serious safety risks–and you can’t always anticipate the weather changes in advance.

2) Improve Road Safety in Cold Temperatures

The most important indication that it’s time for a tire change is to keep an eye on the outside temperature. When the temperature drops below 7 degrees Celcius, it’s time for those cold-weather tires. Winter tires provide. better grip on cold, wet or icy roads, even before the snow falls.

3) Avoid the Seasonal Tire Change Rush

Tire shops across BC get extremely busy in late October and early November as more drivers rush to book appointments. By changing your tires earlier in the season, you’ll avoid long wait times and ensure you’re not stuck driving in unsafe conditions while you wait for an opening.

4) Extend the Life of Your Tires

Switching to winter tires early in the season doesn’t wear them out faster. They’re designed for cold weather, not just snow. By putting them on when temperatures start to drop, you minimize wear on your summer or all-season tires, extending the life of both sets over time.

5) Enhance Your Vehicle’s Performance and Handling

Winter tires aren’t just safer, they’re also engineered for better handling in cold conditions. Their specialized tread patterns and rubber compounds provide more responsive braking, cornering, and acceleration on cold, wet, or icy road conditions. This means a smoother, more confident driving experience as temperatures drop–even if there’s no snow yet.

Not sure where to go for all your winter tire needs? Check out our extensive list of tire retailers who will take your old tires and recycle them for free when you’re ready to pick up your winter tires here.