Winter tires: now’s the time to arrange an appointment

Published on October 4, 2023

Leaves are reddening, mercury is dropping and the October sun is rising … we’re in for fall! CAA-Quebec is reminding motorists that now’s the perfect time to book a tire change and prepare your vehicle for winter. And, since garages are in very high demand at this time of year, it’s best to secure a spot with them straight away.

At CAA-Quebec, the watchword is: it pays to be proactive! An early appointment not only instills peace of mind in motorists, but also enables mechanics to better shuffle their workforce. All the more reason to schedule now! Besides, a number of new car owners, some of whom require new tire sizes, may find it tricky to find the model they’re looking for, and this despite the fact that tire inventories are in better shape than they have been in years past. Therefore, motorists are well advised to start shopping sooner rather than later, so as to find the model that meets their needs.

By the way, did you know that the fall season isn’t just synonymous with tires? It’s also the perfect time to test your car’s battery, so that you can get the most out of it even as the cold snap of winter strikes. CAA-Quebec reminds everyone to perform a battery check twice a year. Our Battery Service can even provide in-home service for members in urban centres.

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“A better choice of time slots, access to a broader range of tire models, and above all, a chance to be ready for the first snowfall, however early it may be: there are only good reasons to make your appointment today.”

— Jesse Caron, Automotive Expert and Road Test Coordinator

Getting a vehicle ready for the cold season is also a great opportunity to put together a winter kit. Snow brush, shovel, flashlight, blanket and traction aids are just a few of the items you should have on hand to help you overcome the hazards of this challenging season. A general mechanical inspection of the vehicle is also highly recommended.  

Busting a myth to improve road safety

It’s a misconception to believe that having winter tires too early in the fall will damage them, even if it’s still 15 or 20°C from time to time. CAA-Quebec is constantly striving to improve road safety, and advises drivers to switch to winter treads no later than when temperatures hover around 7°C for a number of consecutive days. Thus, a motorist could fit his winter tires as early as the beginning of October with no problem whatsoever. All the more reason to call your mechanic today!

1.3 million members champions in winter

In an effort to encourage its members to plan their tire replacement, CAA-Quebec is holding the “It Pays to Be Proactive!” contest, with over $5000 in prizes to be won. To take part, the only requirement is to be a CAA-Quebec member, make an appointment at one of our Approved Auto Repair Service Locations, and fill out the form on the CAA-Quebec website. Deadline to enter is October 18, 2023.

About CAA-Quebec

CAA-Quebec offers a range of assistance services in a wide variety of sectors, drawing on a human approach. As a socially committed organization, CAA-Quebec strives on a daily basis to protect the interests of its members. And in keeping with its values of reliability and benevolence, it fosters responsible consumption and promotes road safety.

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