As temperatures drop and the first signs of snow start to appear, many Toronto drivers find themselves asking the same question each year — do I really need winter tires, or are my all-season tires good enough?
At Weston Ford, we know this decision can make all the difference in how your vehicle performs and keeps you safe through unpredictable Ontario winters.

Understanding the Difference

All-Season Tires
All-season tires are designed to handle a wide variety of road conditions — from dry summer highways to light rain and mild snow. They offer a balanced performance and are ideal for drivers who live in areas with moderate winters and minimal snow accumulation.

However, once temperatures drop below 7°C, the rubber in all-season tires begins to harden, reducing traction on icy or snowy roads. That’s where winter tires come in.

Winter Tires
Winter tires use a softer rubber compound that remains flexible even in freezing temperatures. Their deeper tread patterns and specialized grooves are engineered to grip snow and slush, improving acceleration, braking, and cornering on slippery surfaces.

Performance in Toronto’s Winter Conditions

Toronto’s winters can be unpredictable — freezing rain one week, heavy snow the next. While all-season tires may manage light winter conditions, they can struggle when roads get icy or temperatures consistently stay below freezing.
Winter tires provide up to 25–50% shorter braking distances on cold, slick roads, making them the safer choice for most Greater Toronto Area drivers.

When to Switch to Winter Tires

A good rule of thumb is to install winter tires when the temperature consistently falls below 7°C, usually around late October to early November.
Leaving them on until spring helps ensure optimal performance and safety throughout the season.

Should You Stick With All-Season or Make the Switch?

• Choose All-Season Tires If:
  You mainly drive in the city, park underground, and don’t encounter much snow or ice.
• Choose Winter Tires If:
  You regularly drive in early mornings, late nights, or on untreated roads when temperatures drop below freezing.

For most Toronto drivers, dedicated winter tires are the smarter and safer investment — especially considering how quickly conditions can change.

Weston Ford’s Tire Experts Can Help

Need help choosing the right tires for your Ford? Weston Ford offers a wide selection of major tire brands and winter tire packages tailored to your vehicle.
Our certified technicians can install and balance your new tires and store your summer set safely until spring.

📅 Book your tire change appointment today and get your Ford ready for the road ahead.