How to Tell If You Need New Winter Tires Before the Snow Hits

October 9, 2025

As the air turns crisp and temperatures begin to dip in the GTA, drivers across Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville are pulling their winter tires out of storage and asking one critical question:

“Are these still good for another season?”

It’s a valid concern, and one that could make all the difference in how your vehicle performs during the first frost or sudden snowfall. Before you assume last year’s tires are still up to the task, it’s worth taking a closer look. This blog walks you through the key signs that your winter tires may need replacing, and why early fall is the perfect time to check.

Why Timing Matters

The biggest mistake many drivers make is waiting until the first snow to inspect or replace their winter tires. By that point, it’s already too late. Cold weather doesn’t just arrive with snow — it starts affecting your tires the moment temperatures consistently fall below 7°C. That’s when rubber compounds in all-season tires begin to harden, reducing grip, braking power, and safety. If your winter tires aren’t in top condition, you’re risking performance during the most critical driving season of the year.

Tread Depth: The First Indicator

One of the most important indicators of winter tire safety is tread depth. For cold-weather performance, deeper tread is essential, not just for traction in snow, but also to channel away slush and grip icy pavement. The industry recommends a minimum of 5/32”, but for optimal control, 6/32” or more is best.

If you’re unsure about your tread, there’s a simple DIY method to check at home. The “Toonie test” involves placing a Canadian two-dollar coin into the tread. If the silver part remains fully visible, your tires are too worn to provide safe winter performance. If the tread covers most of the silver, you’re likely still in the safe zone, but a professional inspection is still worthwhile, especially if wear is uneven across the tire.

Look Beyond the Tread

Even tires that look fine at a glance may not be winter-ready. Rubber naturally degrades over time, especially when exposed to moisture, temperature swings, or poor storage conditions. Cracks along the sidewall, small chunks missing from the tread, or visible damage around the tire bead are all red flags. Tires showing any of these issues are more prone to sudden failure in cold conditions, even if the tread seems adequate.

Another factor to consider is age. Even if they haven’t been used extensively, winter tires that are more than six years old can lose their flexibility and grip. You can find the tire’s production date on the sidewall; if they were manufactured before 2019, it’s worth discussing replacements with a tire professional.

Storage-Related Issues

Where and how your tires were stored last spring matters more than most drivers think. Tires that sat in a shed, garage, or basement, especially without proper pressure or support, can develop flat spots or internal damage that isn’t always visible. These flaws can lead to vibrations, noise, and reduced contact with the road surface. That’s why Xtreme Tire Garage offers climate-controlled storage designed to keep tires in ideal condition year-round.

Trust How They Performed Last Winter

Think back to how your vehicle handled during last year’s cold months. Did you feel confident in icy intersections? Were you sliding more than expected on slushy roads? If you experienced longer stopping distances or a general lack of grip, it may not have been the car, it could have been the tires.

Performance is one of the most telling indicators of tire health. If last season left you second-guessing your traction, now is the time to investigate before the conditions demand a flawless response.

Not Sure? Let Us Take a Look

At Xtreme Tire Garage, we believe drivers deserve peace of mind before winter takes hold. If you’re unsure whether your tires are ready, stop by for a quick inspection. Our team will inspect your tread depth, sidewall condition, and tire age, and assess overall condition. We’ll give you an honest answer about whether your tires are good to go, or if it’s time for a replacement.

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