What you need to know about winter tires

THORNHILL, ON, Nov. 10, 2015 /CNW/ - Every year, the first snowfall prompts a rush for winter tires and that means long lineups and even longer waits at service centres across the province.

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) is encouraging drivers to install winter tires sooner rather than later in order to be ready for the winter driving season.

"A good time to switch from all-season tires to winter tires is when the temperature reaches 7°C or below and winter tires should be removed when the temperature reaches 7°C or higher," said Ryan Peterson, Manager Automotive Services, CAA SCO.

"In the cold weather, all-season tires turn hard and lose their elasticity. This causes reduced grip and longer stopping distances," added Peterson.

Drivers should also check their tire pressure once a month. As the temperature drops so too does tire pressure. For every 5°C dip in the thermometer your tire pressure decreases 1 pound per square inch which results in reduced handling and control of your vehicle.

Why make the switch:

1. Depending on your speed and the weather, the braking distance of winter tires can be up to 25 per cent shorter (or two vehicle lengths) compared to all-season tires.
   
2. Winter tires consist of a rubber compound that keeps tires flexible in cold temperatures and a tread design that helps maintain a firm grip on snow and ice packed roads.
   
3. Sets of four matching winter tires will help your vehicle maintain control and stability.
   
4. CAA Insurance policyholders save 5 per cent on their auto insurance premium when four designated winter tires are installed.

CAA SCO is reminding members to download the CAA App and use CAA Service Tracker to track the status and estimated time of arrival of their road service call.

For over a hundred years, CAA has been helping Canadians stay mobile, safe and protected. CAA South Central Ontario is one of nine auto clubs across Canada providing roadside assistance, travel, insurance services and member savings for our 2 million members.

SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario

Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Consultant, CAA SCO, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone] or Jeff LeMoine, Communications Consultant, CAA SCO, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone].