Tire changes are generally performed twice a year, yet many consumers know little about this practice. Whether it's about the reasons, the procedure, or the price of tire changing, learn more with this detailed guide!
Occasion Beaucage tells you what you need to know and invites you to check out its inventory to buy a new or used vehicle.
Buy a new or used vehicle?Why Should You Change Tires with the Seasons?
It's important to know that each type of tire has different properties, mainly due to the rubber compound.
Summer tires provide good grip on dry and wet roads, but lose this grip as the temperature drops. They become rigid and less stable, risking slipping on surfaces like ice. Therefore, they are not safe for the cold season.
It's the opposite for winter tires: they offer better flexibility at low temperatures, but wear out quickly when it's warm. Using summer tires preserves your tires and optimizes fuel consumption.
Changing tires is not just a matter of law, it's also a matter of safety and performance!
Deadline for Installing Winter Tires in Quebec
Winter tires must be installed starting from December 1st, but when should you install your winter tires? Don't wait until the last minute: it's best to do it as soon as temperatures start to cool down, typically in late October or early November.
This mandatory period ends on March 16th; from this date, you are allowed to change to summer tires whenever you wish.
When to Change Winter Tires for Summer Tires?
It's true that there is no specific date for changing winter tires to summer tires. While you can do it as early as March 16th, this date is not recommended!
It's better to wait until temperatures rise above 7 degrees Celsius before putting on your summer tires. Why? Simply because summer tires do not grip well on the road below this temperature. This means poorer road performance and, most importantly, less safe driving!
However, don't wait too long, as your winter tires will wear out faster in hot temperatures. That's not good news for your wallet!
For these reasons, the ideal period for tire changing is usually between early and mid-April.
How Much Will Your Tire Change Cost?
The cost of tire changes varies greatly depending on the mechanic, the size of your tires, and any other operations to be performed. In general, installation costs between $15 and $20 per tire.
Tire changing at home is another cost-effective option, ranging from $45 to $95. These services come to your home or office to change the tires, and they also offer group discounts for three cars or more.
However, some additional fees may apply, including:
- •Tire installation on rims ($5-$20)
- •Wheel balancing ($45-$50)
- •An SUV or light truck ($20-$40)
- •Run-flat tires ($20)
How to Change a Tire by Yourself?
Changing your tires yourself is undoubtedly the most economical method, provided you know how to do it!
First of all, your tires should already be mounted on rims. Note that it's not possible to change tire size without changing the rims for safety reasons. In addition to your tires, gather all the necessary equipment:
- •A jack
- •A lug wrench
- •A crowbar
- •A cloth
- •A torque wrench for tightening (optional)
Don't hesitate to wear gloves for the messier steps! Once you have everything ready, you're prepared to start your tire change. Here are the steps to follow:
- •Loosen the lug nuts using the crowbar: turn them half a turn counterclockwise.
- •Place the jack under the car, pressing it against the frame.
- •Jack up the car until the tire is off the ground.
- •Remove the tires by unscrewing the nuts completely. Make sure to hold onto the wheel to prevent it from falling on you.
- •Install the tire, making sure to clean the contact areas beforehand. Align the bolts with the holes in the rim and push until fully seated, then hold the tire using a nut.
- •Tighten the nuts with the lug wrench, then tighten them a second time.
- •Lower the wheel to the ground and complete tightening the nuts. Use a torque wrench or the lug wrench, with or without using the hollow bar.
Then proceed in the same way for each tire!
Can you change just one tire? In some situations, only one tire needs to be changed; this is the case when experiencing a flat, an accident, or vandalism.
It's possible to do so, preferably opting for the same model or at least the same brand and tire structure (tread pattern). Seek advice to ensure you make the right choice!
In any case, the best tires should be installed on the rear of the vehicle. If your car has all-wheel drive, there are other rules to follow; inquire before proceeding!
To face winter confidently, check out our recommendations for all-wheel-drive vehicles. Our professionals in Estrie are also available to advise you or give you a hand: contact us!
