Consumer Tips

Featured Tip

Winter Tires

While all-season tires are adequate for mild winter driving and provide modest traction on snow and ice when new, their grip diminishes as the tires age. Their rubber compound hardens as temperature drops, providing poorer grip, even on dry surfaces. Certified winter tires (marked with the pictograph above) meet specific snow traction requirements and have been designed specifically for use in snow conditions. The compound of a winter tire is more pliable and retains its grip even in cold temperatures.

If you drive in winter conditions, install four winter tires that meet the “snow tire” designation on your vehicle, to help control your vehicle safely in slippery conditions. Currently, Quebec is the only province in Canada with legislation in place that makes it mandatory for drivers to use winter tires all around, but other provinces may follow the lead.

Vehicle handling improves when tires of the same type, size, speed rating and load index are installed on all four wheels.

More Tips

Air Pressure

Check your tires regularly for tread wear and inflation. Use a tire gauge to maintain the manufacturer’s recommended pressure to: maximize fuel economy, save on wear-and-tear, increase safety, and even help the environment. Always allow for extra loads or transfer from trailer towing.

Visual Inspections

Inspect your tires monthly for cuts or bulges in the side-walls, uneven or irregular wear due to misalignment or imbalance, worn treads, or any damage.

Tire Rotation

Have your tires rotated every 10,000 KM to achieve more uniform wear. If your tires show irregular wear, or the tread wear bars are visible, visit your local WCTD Tire Professional for assistance.

Alignment

Proper alignment is critical for even tread wear and precise steering. Changes in your vehicle’s handling or steering response — like pulling to one side — can indicate misalignment. Depending on the symptoms, your vehicle may need a “front-end” alignment or a “four-wheel” alignment. Having your wheels properly aligned can more than pay for itself in tire mileage, performance and comfort.

Balancing

If you feel a pounding or shaking through the steering wheel or your seat, chances are your wheels are out of balance. This can reduce the life of suspension components, lead to uneven tire wear and increase fuel consumption. Talk to your WCTD Tire Professional about having your wheels properly balanced.

Tire Replacement

If the tread wear indicators are visible, the tire must be replaced, as it no longer provides sufficient traction in rain or snow. For safety reasons, it is recommended to change a tire when its tread reaches a depth of 1.6 mm or 2/32″.

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Western Canada Tire Dealers
65 Woodbine Rd.
Sherwood Park, AB
T8A 4A7