Changing to winter tires once temperatures begin to drop is one of the best things you can do to make your car safer for driving in cold, snowy and icy conditions. (AMA Insurance also offers a winter tire discount on auto insurance policies.) Dan Sandstra, manager of Kal Tire’s Clareview store in Edmonton, explains why winter tires really are better.
HOW DO WINTER TIRES DIFFER FROM ALL-SEASONS?
Once temperatures reach 7 C, winter tires offer better traction for braking and maintaining stability while turning. Their rubber compound allows them to stay more flexible when its cold. The tread design also helps give the tire more bite on smoother surfaces.
WHY SHOULD DRIVERS MONITOR THEIR TIRE PRESSURE?
Tires lose about one psi of pressure for every five degrees of temperature change. If you go from a 20 C fall day to a -20 C winter day, you can have pressure change of up to eight psi, which can trigger your car’s tire pressure monitor light to come on.
MORE TO READ
Why you should learn to drive in winter
HOW MUCH WILL A SET COST ME?
You can get entry-level winter tires on a standard 16-inch rim installed for around $500. More expensive, higher-rated winter tires tend to have more dependable performance as they wear. The average driver will get four or five seasons out of a set of winter tires. At Kal Tire, we offer storage options for customers so you don’t need to clear space at home.
HOW TO SAVE
Kal Tire: Save 5% on tires and custom wheels, plus save 10% on parts and services
Lube City: Earn 15% in reward dollars on oil changes
Rockets Detail Deluxe: Save 10% on detailing and protection services
NAPA Auto Parts: Save 10% on regular-price parts and accessories, like wipers, floor mats and more
See AMARewards.ca/Auto for more automotive partners and savings
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED
If your vehicle needs work this winter or beyond, take it to an Approved Auto Repair Services (AARS) facility. AMA stands behind the quality of service offered by AARS facilities in Alberta. Repair work is backed with a one-year, 20,000-km, Canada-wide warranty on most parts and services.