When Ontario Drivers Should Switch to All-Season Tires
There’s no doubt winter tires are a huge help during those cold Ontario months. They give you that extra grip and better braking when roads are snow-covered. But, once the temperatures start increasing, keeping them on the vehicle is no longer the best idea. And recently, with spring around the corner here in Stratford, we have been getting a lot of people stopping by our service centre asking the same question: when is the right time to switch back to all-season tires in Stratford, Ontario? Long story short, once the temperature consistently stays above about 7 degrees and the roads are clear of snow, it is usually time to make the switch because, at that point, winter tires can start to lose their flexibility, and you may notice a drop in performance compared to all-season tires. Follow along with our team at Stratford Kia to learn more details below.
Learn more about the Kia Maintenance and Service at Kia Canada.
Read more:
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How to Keep Your A/C Running Strong All Summer Long in Stratford
When is the Right Time to Switch to All-Season Tires?
Trying to figure out the exact moment to make the tire switch doesn’t always come with a fixed date. In reality, it comes down to a mix of what the thermometer is saying and what the road conditions look like. A good rule of thumb is to watch the temperature. Once it consistently stays above 7 degrees, that’s usually your cue that winter tires have done their job for the season.
Besides the numbers, you should take a look at the roads too. If the snow and ice are gone and you’re mostly dealing with dry or wet pavement, that’s another sign it’s time to switch. Of course, if you’re ever unsure, it’s always worth getting a second opinion. Our service team at Stratford Kia is happy to take a look and help you figure out the right timing for your vehicle.
Why You Shouldn’t Keep Winter Tires in Spring & Summer
Now you know when to switch to all-season tires, but it’s just as important to understand why you shouldn’t leave your winter tires on once the warmer weather arrives. Like its name implies, winter tires are only designed for cold weather. That softer rubber is what gives you the grip you need on snowy roads. But once the temperatures start to rise, that soft compound begins to lose its flexibility, which tends to wear down much faster on dry pavement. What can you expect? You could end up needing new tires sooner than you planned. You might also notice your vehicle doesn’t feel quite the same. Steering can feel a little less sharp, braking distances can increase, as well as overall handling isn’t as tight as it is with all-season tires on warmer roads. Although it’s not dangerous right away, it’s not ideal for your spring driving. There’s also fuel efficiency to think about. Winter tires create a bit more resistance, which can use more fuel as you drive.
Book Your Seasonal Tire Change at Stratford Kia
If you’ve read this far, you’re probably already thinking about getting your winter tires swapped out for all-season tires at Stratford Kia. Now is a great time to make the switch and get ahead of the season before our service bay gets crowded. Fill out our online form, give us a call at (519) 508-5755, or simply stop by our Kia service centre at 863 Erie Street in Stratford, to book your seasonal tire change, today.
Learn more about the Kia Maintenance and Service at Kia Canada.