Spring is almost here, and with it comes the annual debate of when to switch out your winter tires for summer ones. For drivers in Canada, this isn’t a simple task of flipping the calendar to March—timing your tire change depends heavily on local weather conditions, which can vary greatly across the country. So, when exactly is the best time to make the switch? Let’s break it down by region and give you the 2025 guide to tire timing.
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The Importance of Timing Your Tire Change
In Canada, the weather can be notoriously unpredictable, with lingering snowstorms and freezing temperatures even into April and May. The key to making the right tire switch is understanding the role of temperature. According to The Weather Network (TWN), the ideal time to remove your winter tires isn’t based solely on the date—it’s about when temperatures consistently reach at least 7°C during the day. Swapping them out too early can leave you vulnerable to surprise snowstorms, while waiting too long can result in premature wear on your winter tires due to the softer rubber not being suited for warmer conditions.
Moreover, many insurance companies in Canada offer discounts for drivers who use winter tires during the colder months. However, these discounts typically apply from November 1 to March 31, so it’s worth checking your insurer’s requirements before making the switch.
Here’s a closer look at when to swap winter tires for summer ones in 2025 based on where you live.
1. British Columbia: A Mixed Bag of Weather
If you’re in Vancouver, you’re likely itching to change out your winter tires. Vancouver tends to get minimal snow in April, with temperatures generally ranging from 6°C to 13°C. If you’re driving mostly during the day, it’s a safe bet that spring weather is here. However, make sure to check if your area is subject to winter tire laws that remain in place until March 31 or April 30, especially if you’re heading into mountainous regions.
For areas like the Interior or Northern BC, winter tires should stay on a bit longer, as snowfall in April is not uncommon.
Vancouver Forecast:
- March 15: 7°C (day), 3°C (night)
- March 22: 8°C (day), 6°C (night)
- March 28: 11°C (day), 6°C (night)
2. Alberta and the Prairies: Be Patient
In Calgary, Edmonton, and cities across the Prairies, spring can be a tricky season for tire swaps. Temperatures in these cities often remain well below 7°C throughout March, and snowstorms are frequent even into April. Calgary, for instance, typically sees 21 cm of snow in April. Based on historical weather data, it’s wise to wait until at least late April or early May before removing winter tires in these areas.
Calgary Forecast:
- March 15: -3°C (day), -7°C (night)
- March 22: 5°C (day), -3°C (night)
- March 28: 6°C (day), -2°C (night)
Winnipeg Forecast:
- March 15: -7°C (day), -15°C (night)
- March 22: 8°C (day), -1°C (night)
- March 28: 6°C (day), -1°C (night)
3. Ontario: Watch for Temperature Swings
Ontario doesn’t have a specific law about winter tires, but that doesn’t mean you should rush to remove them. Toronto and Ottawa see dramatic temperature swings in March, with warm daytime highs followed by chilly nights. On average, Toronto gets 5 cm of snow in April, while Ottawa gets up to 11 cm. It’s best to hold off until April to ensure you’re not caught in any late-season snowstorms.
Toronto Forecast:
- March 15: 13°C (day), 10°C (night)
- March 22: 6°C (day), 1°C (night)
- March 28: 5°C (day), -1°C (night)
Ottawa Forecast:
- March 15: 13°C (day), 5°C (night)
- March 22: 5°C (day), -2°C (night)
- March 28: 4°C (day), -3°C (night)
4. Quebec: Wait for Warmer Days
Quebec law mandates that all vehicles must have winter tires on until March 15. However, it’s advisable to wait a couple of weeks after this date to make the switch. Montreal, for example, experiences an average of 13 cm of snow in April. For Quebec City and other northern areas, snow can persist into late April, so you may want to keep your winter tires on longer.
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Montreal Forecast:
- March 15: 12°C (day), 6°C (night)
- March 22: 5°C (day), -1°C (night)
- March 28: 5°C (day), -1°C (night)
5. Atlantic Canada: Expect the Unexpected
In Halifax, St. John’s, and Charlottetown, spring weather can be highly unpredictable. Snowstorms are frequent in the Maritimes well into April, and overnight temperatures are often near freezing. For example, St. John’s sees an average of 29 cm of snow in April. If you live in this region, it’s better to wait until late April to ensure you’re not caught in one last spring storm.
Halifax Forecast:
- March 15: 9°C (day), 3°C (night)
- March 22: 5°C (day), 1°C (night)
- March 28: 8°C (day), 4°C (night)
Key Takeaways: Know Your Region and Stay Safe
No matter where you live in Canada, the best time to switch to summer tires is when temperatures consistently stay above 7°C. While it may be tempting to change them out as soon as the calendar turns to March, local weather patterns and the unpredictability of spring can make this decision more complex. To ensure you’re not caught off guard by a late-season snowstorm, consult your local weather forecast and keep an eye on long-term temperature trends.
And remember, waiting a little longer to switch to summer tires is safer and more economical than getting stuck with worn-out winter tires when the warm weather finally hits.
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