Use the 7°C guideline
Plan to install winter tires when daily temperatures consistently fall to about 7°C or below. Winter compounds remain flexible in the cold, while many all-season compounds begin to harden and lose grip.
Do not wait for the first storm
Booking before the first major snowfall helps avoid seasonal appointment delays and gives you cold-weather traction during early frost, freezing rain, and sudden temperature drops.
- Check tread depth and tire condition before installation
- Install four matching winter tires
- Confirm pressure after temperatures drop
- Recheck wheel fastener torque as directed after installation
When should winter tires come off?
Switch back when temperatures are consistently above roughly 7°C. Warm pavement increases wear on softer winter compounds and can reduce warm-weather steering response.
Ontario weather changes quickly. Focus on sustained temperatures and your normal travel conditions rather than one unusually warm or cold day.
This guide provides general tire information and does not replace the vehicle placard, owner's manual, tire-manufacturer instructions, legal requirements, or a physical tire inspection.