Quebecers Hit The Deadline

Today is the day winter tires in La Belle Province have become mandatory. Despite the rumours there was still enough tires for procrastinators. Actually while some sizes and models where sold out on Ontario side of the border, Quebecers still had a good choice of winter tires.

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation has covered the deadline approaching. One line though left me scratching my head: "The majority of Quebec drivers already have all-season radials...". The author really did not get it. Who nowadays does not have all season tires? This is what most of Canadians are using to drive through spring, summer and fall.

I liked Moltar's comment to the CBC article, it makes everything clear:

* A common misconception is that all season tires are really designed for all seasons. All season tires are one of the biggest lies in the tire industry. It's just a label for a tire. Means nothing. I can call it a Space Tire, but is it going to get me into space? Probably not...

* Another common misconception is that winter tires are only necessary for snow. The truth is that you need winter tires for temperatures below 5 C. Rubber compound used in non-winter tires is synthetic and loses the qualities under low temperatures become very hard and plastic-like. Ever froze a hose outside? Same deal. Winter tires are made of softer, natural rubber and are able to withstand lower temperatures retaining the soft qualities.

* Most people say that they don't get winter tires is because the tires are expensive. They are. But you are not replacing your summer tires. This is an additional set of tires, which you will replace at the end of the season with summer tires, saving your summer tires in the meantime. In the long run you are not overpaying. Don't forget to consider the savings from potential collision, auto repair, increased insurance costs, disability, etc... Also, don't buy the tires in November, get them during the summer, when they are cheaper. Save up during the year, just like you would save up for a major repair or body work.

* By not putting on winter tires you are putting yourself, your family and drivers around you in danger.

If you still don't believe the winter tires work, try renting a car in Quebec and test driving it for a day.

Full CBC article.