Every fall, the same thing happens: the first snow arrives, everyone remembers their winter tires at once, and tire shops are booked solid for weeks. Plan a little earlier and you’ll pay less, get the tires you actually want, and skip the line.
Here’s when to buy, where winter tires are required by law, the insurance discounts and loans you may qualify for, and how to keep the cost down.
Why winter tires (and not all-seasons)
Winter tires use a rubber compound that stays soft in the cold, plus deep tread designed for snow and slush. All-season tires start to stiffen as temperatures drop, which means longer stopping distances on cold, icy roads. A common rule of thumb is to switch once daytime temperatures stay below about 7°C.
Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol on the sidewall. That’s the mark of a tire that meets the winter performance standard. “M+S” (mud and snow) on its own is not the same thing.
Where winter tires are required by law
Quebec: December 1 to March 15
All passenger vehicles registered in Quebec must have winter tires from December 1 to March 15. The tires must carry the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol or be studded. Fines run from $200 to $300, plus costs.
British Columbia: designated highways from October 1
On most designated highways, including all highways in northern B.C. and the Interior, the Sea to Sky Highway and parts of Vancouver Island, winter tires are required from October 1 until March 31, or April 30 on some mountain passes and high-snowfall routes. B.C. accepts tires with either the mountain snowflake or M+S symbol, in good condition with at least 3.5 mm of tread. Many Lower Mainland and southern Vancouver Island roads are exempt. Watch for the signs at the start and end of each route.
Everywhere else: not required, strongly recommended
Other provinces don’t require winter tires by law, but anywhere with real winter, they’re one of the best safety purchases you can make.
Insurance discounts and loans
Ontario: insurers must offer a discount
Since 2016, Ontario has required auto insurers to offer a discount for winter tires. It’s usually around 2% to 5% of your premium. Each insurer sets its own rules, but you’ll typically need:
- a full set of four tires with the mountain snowflake symbol (many insurers don’t count all-weather tires);
- to have them installed by a set date, which varies by insurer from early November to December 1;
- proof, such as a receipt or installation invoice, if your insurer asks.
The discount isn’t always applied automatically. Ask your insurer or broker.
Manitoba: low-interest loans through MPI
Manitoba Public Insurance’s Winter Tire Program lets eligible customers finance up to $2,000 per vehicle at prime plus 2%, paid back over one to four years. It can cover the tires, rims, mounting, balancing, alignment and tire pressure sensors. As of October 1, 2026, only tires with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol qualify.
Other provinces
Some private insurers in other provinces also offer winter tire discounts. It’s worth a two-minute call to ask, especially when you renew.
When to buy winter tires
- September and early October is the sweet spot: full selection, fall promotions, and installation appointments are still easy to book.
- After the first snowfall, demand spikes, popular sizes sell out and shops book up for weeks.
- Late winter and spring clearance can be cheaper, but sizes are limited and you’ll have to store the tires until next season.
How to save on winter tires
- Buy a second set of rims. Mounting your winter tires on their own rims (steel rims are cheapest) makes each seasonal swap much cheaper and faster, and it’s easier on the tires.
- Compare the installed price, not the tire price. Add mounting, balancing, valve stems, tire pressure sensors (TPMS), environmental fees and disposal before comparing quotes.
- Watch for fall rebates. Tire manufacturers often run mail-in or instant rebates on winter tires in the fall, and retailers stack them with their own sales.
- Price match. Some retailers will match a competitor’s price on the identical tire. See our price matching guide.
- Consider all-weather tires if you drive mostly in the city and don’t want to swap twice a year. They carry the mountain snowflake symbol and stay on year-round, but check whether your insurer counts them for a discount.
- Store them properly. Clean them, keep them out of the sun and away from heat, and they’ll last more seasons.
Get winter tire deals sent to you
We post tire and auto deals as they come up, including fall rebates and clearance. Set up Deal Alerts for “winter tires” or your tire size and we’ll email you when there’s a deal.
FAQ
When do I need winter tires in Quebec?
From December 1 to March 15. They must carry the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol or be studded.
Are winter tires mandatory in Ontario?
No, but insurers must offer a discount if you use them, usually 2% to 5%.
Do all-weather tires count as winter tires?
All-weather tires with the mountain snowflake symbol meet Quebec’s requirement, but many Ontario insurers don’t give the winter tire discount for tires that stay on all year. Check with your insurer.
When should I put my winter tires on?
Once daytime temperatures stay below about 7°C, and before any legal deadline where you live. Book your appointment early; shops get busy after the first snow.
Last checked October 2026. Provincial rules and insurer policies can change, so confirm the details for your province and insurer.
