Can I use all-season tires year-round in Ontario?
All-season tires are the same as a multipurpose tool in areas that complement them. All-season tires are like a do-it-all tool for your car. They work well in both summer and winter, giving you steady performance all year. The rubber stays firm in hot weather but flexible enough for good grip when it’s cold. Their tread design helps push water away, giving you better stability in rain and light snow.
However, can all-season tires be used year-round? The answer is negative, we’re afraid. This is because in areas where the temperature drops below 7°C during the winter, all-season tires don’t work so well. Instead, for snowy and icy terrain, winter tires have a deeper tread depth than all-season tires, and their rubber material remains flexible in both conditions. Let’s find out in this blog the difference between all-season tires and winter tires and if you can use all-season tires year-round in Ontario?
Benefits of All-Season Tires
The main reason why drivers choose all-season tires is convenience. All-season tires have the ability to withstand various driving conditions. These tires exhibit satisfactory performance because they successfully integrate various tread patterns. All-season tires provide smooth driving performance. They offer reliable control in typical temperatures and dependable grip on moist roads. All-season tires are a practical universal answer for people who live in areas with mild winter temperatures and moderate summer temperatures.
These tires’ long-term financial advantages are an additional bonus. When used on dry pavement, all-season tires are more durable.
Why All-Season Tires Cannot be Used Year-Round in Ontario
All-season tires are usually safe to drive when the temperature is 7 degrees Celsius (C) or above. The rubber of all-season tires is pliable enough to keep a firm hold on the road in such temperatures. However, the material in all-season tires can harden and lose traction when the temperature falls below 7°C.
Standard road conditions are necessary for all-season tires. In dry roads and cold conditions, respectively, they fall short of the summer tires’ handling and stopping qualities. People who frequently travel on highways or drive performance automobiles should select seasonal tires based on their driving requirements.
Winter tires are necessary for driving in areas with significant snowfall, slippery roads, and below-freezing temperatures because all-season tires are unable to match their safety performance. You will experience longer braking times and poor traction caused by the rubber material becoming stiff in the cold weather.
In order to spread out and keep a better grip in cold weather (7°C or less), winter tires are made to remain flexible. Additionally, winter tires have tread patterns that are made to divert water to the sides. They improve the tires’ ability to stay in contact with the road. Here are some reasons to choose winter tires in Ontario:
Improved Traction
Winter tires’ distinct tread patterns are made to divert snow and slush away from the tire. They improve grip and lower the chance of hydroplaning. You would need this especially when traveling in North York since the roads usually become dangerous due to snow. You can drive more securely during winter storms by using winter tires, which can greatly increase your car’s handling and stability.
Reduced Stopping Distances
Winter tires also reduce stopping distances on icy roads. According to studies, cars with winter tires can stop considerably more quickly in colder weather than cars with all-season tires. This is the one major difference between avoiding an accident and being involved in one. Safety for both you and your passengers should be your top priority when you choose winter tires from Rim and Tire Pro.
Conclusion: Can I use all-season tires year-round in Ontario?
To sum it all up, you cannot use all-season tires year-round if you’re living in Ontario. Whether or not you can use all-season tires year-round depends on where you live. At Rim and Tire Pro in North York, we are committed to help you prepare your vehicle for driving in Ontario. Our staff will assist you in selecting the right tires for your specific vehicle and driving habits.
We offer a wide range of high-quality tire brands that provide excellent performance during the summer and the winter.
You must be ready to drive in any weather condition for the sake of your own safety as well as the safety of other drivers. Providing high-quality winter and summer tires that enhance your vehicle’s performance in the snow and ice as well as during the warmer months is our aim at Rim and Tire Pro. You can drive with confidence all year long if you choose the proper tires and follow safe driving practices. To learn more about our professional services and tire selection, stop by our location today!
