the tire guys

Seasonal changeover (swap mounted tires on rims) runs $60-$120 for all four. Mounting new tires on rims costs $80-$160. Many shops offer free changeover if you buy tires from them.

Switch when temperatures consistently drop below 7°C — typically late October to mid-November in most of Canada. Winter tires are mandatory in Quebec (Dec 1 - March 15) and required on some BC highways.

Most tires last 60,000-100,000 km or 4-5 years, whichever comes first. Winter tires last about 4 seasons. Check tread depth regularly — the legal minimum is 1.6mm but 3mm is recommended for safety.

Buying from a local shop often includes installation, balancing, and a warranty. Online can be cheaper per tire but you still need to pay for installation. Compare total cost including mounting, balancing, and disposal fees.

Yes. AWD helps with acceleration but does nothing for braking or cornering on ice and snow. Winter tires provide 30-50% better grip in cold conditions regardless of drivetrain. All-weather tires (with the mountain snowflake symbol) are a year-round alternative.

Tire storage (tire hotel) keeps your off-season tires at the shop for $60-$120 per season. Worth it if you lack storage space at home. Tires stored properly last longer — they need a cool, dry, dark environment.