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Winter Tires in Edmonton: When to Switch, When to Replace, and How to Save

Writer: Big Toy Shop
Big Toy Shop
Oct 11
2 min read
Winter Tires in Edmonton: When to Switch, When to Replace, and How to Save

Edmonton's first snow often lands in October, and all-season tires start losing grip before the snow does. Here's when to switch, how to tell if last year's winter tires are done, and how to keep the cost down.

When to switch

The common rule is to switch once daytime temperatures stay at about 7°C or below. Under that, the rubber in all-season tires hardens and grips less, even on dry roads. Don't wait for the first snowfall. That's the week every shop in the city fills up.

What makes a winter tire different

Winter tires use a softer rubber that stays flexible in the cold, with deeper tread and more small cuts (sipes) that bite into snow and ice. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol on the sidewall. An M+S (mud and snow) marking alone is not the same thing.

Are last year's winter tires done?

  • Tread: once a winter tire wears down to about 4/32" (3 mm), it loses much of its grip in snow and slush.

  • Age: rubber hardens over the years even when tread is left. The last four digits of the DOT code on the sidewall show the week and year the tire was made.

  • Damage: cracks in the sidewall, bulges, or wear on one edge only. Uneven wear can also point to an alignment problem worth fixing before new tires go on.

How to keep the cost down

The price of a set depends on your tire size, the brand, and whether you buy rims too. A few things help:

  • A second set of rims means your tires don't need to be remounted and rebalanced every spring and fall, so each changeover is quicker and cheaper.

  • Ask your insurer whether they offer a discount for winter tires.

  • Store your off-season tires cool, dry and out of the sun so they last more seasons.

At Big Toy Shop we sell winter tires, not just changeovers, and we won't be beat on tire pricing 99% of the time. No need to bring your quote. We save you time and money.

Running work trucks?

Winter tires on a fleet pay for themselves in fewer stuck trucks and fewer fender-benders. Our fleet maintenance program includes free inspections and drop-off within 2 business days. Ask for Chris, Fleet Manager.

Book before the rush

Big Toy Shop is at 8315 Argyll Rd NW in south Edmonton. Book your winter tires on our service page or call 780-298-2797.

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