Tips to Keep Your Vehicle in Tip-Top Shape This Season
Hi friends,
I’m sure you’ll agree that getting back to the “normal” lifestyle that we all deserve is nice. I enjoy seeing friends and relatives again. In doing so, I’m getting asked a lot of questions about oil life and tires since some people have relied less on their vehicles during COVID-19. You may have similar questions now that you’re back behind the wheel again. I can provide some advice to help you make sense of these two critical items.
Because I’m known as the “oil guy,” one question I often get asked is: why do I need to change my oil if I’m not driving as much? Well, today’s engines give us more horsepower (way more) and burn less fuel (way less) than ever. Motor oil plays a fundamental role in this, and just because our vehicles have been sitting for a few months doesn’t necessarily mean the oil can last a few months more.
Due to lack of driving, unburned fuel and condensation build up in the oil and on critical engine parts because it is not bring burned off. Fuel can thin oil, which is not good. I always tell my family and friends to check their owner’s manual or the electronic oil meter on their vehicle. If it tells you that your oil life is low or if you surpass the six-month time interval for oil changes, it’s important to get it changed. For around $100, it is the cheapest maintenance (by far) you can do on your vehicle. Oil change maintenance will pay off for years of driving!
I also get a lot of questions about tire pressures, especially now that we are getting into cooler months. Your car will probably tell you that your tire pressure is low once temperatures start to dip below 10 degrees. If that happens, a tire pressure light will come on in your vehicle, indicating pressure is low in one of your tires. That is somewhat normal, as air compresses in the cold and some air is lost through the tire and wheel assembly process.
I suggest checking your tire pressures every week during seasonal transitions (summer to fall, fall to winter) or whenever your vehicle’s tire monitoring system tells you to check them. If your vehicle has its original sized rims and tires, you should always set your tire pressure to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. These can be found in your owner’s manual, on the tire placard on the inside of your driver’s side door, or inside your gas filler door. Make sure you try to maintain tire pressures, so you stay safe and get the best life out of your tires.
I won’t want you out in the cold, paying money to figure this out. If you need help with your tire pressures, don’t throw a loonie in the air machine at the gas station. Instead, drive into your local Jiffy Lube®, and we’ll adjust them at no charge; that’s part of our service to our loyal customers.
If you are a regular with us, it will be good to see you again. If you are new to us, welcome! We hope we have earned your trust as your maintenance spot in town.
Enjoy the changing seasons and be safe.
– Albert
Top 10 must see road trip locations in Ontario.
Summer time is here – which means warmer weather, vacation days and energetic kids who need a good adventure! Road trips help lead to fun-filled adventures and allow you to fully discover all that Ontario has to offer. Unsure where to go next? What to do when you arrive? Don’t sweat it! Buckle up – as we have listed some of Ontario’s outstanding and unforgettable road trip destinations!
Tobermory
Just southeast of Bruce Peninsula National Park, Tobermory is a harbour village that is home to The Grotto – a stunning hiking trail with a stunning view. Explore the caves or take a dip into the crystal blue waters that surround this beautiful Ontario community.
Thousand Islands
If the name wasn’t already a dead give-away, this sightseer’s paradise has over 1,800 islands residing around the St. Lawrence River. Fully indulge in this unique cultural destination by exploring extraordinary lighthouses, historic castles or enjoying a boat tour around the pirate-patrolled waterway!
Huntsville
Nestled in the heart of Muskoka, Ontario – Huntsville is a must-see cottage country desintation! Plan a family weekend campout at Arrowhead Provincial Park. Want to really test your outdoor adventure skills? Start by tackling the 15 km hiking trails or rent a kayak and tread those Ontario waters!
Point Pelee
Have you ordered your provincial park pass yet? You’re going to need it! This reservation is the perfect stop for animal lovers with more than 370 species of birds have made a home here. During the fall you can also find plenty of Monarch butterflies around the park. Snap a couple photos and be one with nature!
Hamilton Waterfalls
Explore the waterfall capital of Ontario– Hamilton! This major city has roughly one hundred waterfalls and cascades in the city. A fan favourite is The Devils Punchbowl Falls – a 37-metre ribbon waterfall! Round up the family and the camera because this breathtaking location is one for the family photo album! End the day off with some retail therapy by heading to Locke street, a strip filled with local clothing and antique boutiques.
The Canadian Automotive Museum
We couldn’t forget about our car enthusiasts! Round up the gang and head over to The Canadian Automotive Museum located in Oshawa, Ontario. ‘Ouu’ and ‘ahh’ over classic Canadian cars, motorcycles and trucks! This fun and educational museum is the home to some vehicles that date all the way back to the early 19th century!
Sudbury
Perfect for science lovers, Greater Sudbury offers tourists a hand-on experience at the science museum; Dynamic Earth. Enjoy the underground tour, multimedia theatres and the newly added outdoor science park! Before you leave, don’t forget to take a selfie with the big nickel!
Prince Edward County
Calling all wine and cheese lovers! This vacation destination is the home to many passionate winemakers. Enjoy a glass of the province’s best Pinot Nior, and then head down to Sandbanks Provincial park to take a stroll along the white sand and waterline.
Ottawa
We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary then to visit Canada’s capital – Ottawa. Sightsee at Parliament hill and make sure to say hi to Prime Minister Trudeau! If you’re feeling more adventurous, the mighty Ottawa River is where you are going to want to be. Get the fishing rods out and catch a big one during a guided fishing tour!
Now that you have a checklist full of places to visit and things to do, it is important to always make sure that your car is prepared for the long road ahead. Keep you and your passengers safe and sound. Come into your local Jiffy Lube so we can service your vehicle and send you on your way to whatever adventures lie ahead!
Watch Now: Inside The Jiffy Lube Experience
Watch our 30-second commercial below and see how you can get $10 off your next oil change and up to 25 Bonus Air Miles Reward Miles.
Jiffy Lube is hitting the small screen with our big promos!
This upcoming season, we’re calling for you to ‘Be Wise, Winterize’, so that your car is prepared and ready to prevent any cold weather catastrophes. We’ve decided to help spread the word with our new commercials that give you a sneak peak into what your Jiffy Lube experience will be like.
It’s our goal to make car care easy, and our technicians would be happy to educate you on what it takes to keep your car safely on the road and out of a repair shop this winter.
We believe that in order to be easy, car care must be:
Fast… That’s why we’ve perfected offering thorough, quality services, in a jiffy!
Affordable… That’s why we offer great discounts and prime promotions for all seasons!
Accessible… That’s why it’s not necessary to make an appointment to see a technician; just drive in & drive on!
Come in today to take advantage of the super seasonal savings and our wide selection of winter-friendly services. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Used Car
Buying a used car can be a great option on a budget, but only if you do it right. The wrong car or the wrong price can create added cost and hassle. It can be intimidating, but we’re here to help. Here’s what you need to know before buying a used car.
Know What You’re Looking For
People look for different things in a car. Decide what’s most important to you before you start looking. Is it price? Value? Do you want a specific type of car? This will largely depend on your situation and your needs. Once you’ve figured that out, set a budget and stick with it. It’s good to set your limit before you see the car or speak to the seller. That way, the budget is set before emotions are involved. Don’t forget to consider the depreciation and resale value, the fuel economy and the insurance cost. These additional factors can be easy to forget when you look at the sticker price, but they vary by vehicle.
Know Where to Look to Buy a Used Car
There are many ways to buy a used car in Ontario. Here are your options and some basic information you should know to help you decide what route to take:
Private sale – Private sales are very popular because of the ease of transaction and price advantage. When you buy a used car in a private sale you get the car exactly as it is, which includes any problems with the vehicle. For that reason, it’s important to have a mechanic inspect the car prior to purchase.
Used car dealership – When buying a used car at a dealership the quality of the vehicle and the integrity of the person selling it vary as much as in private sale. Although there are rules and regulations for a dealership, it can be very difficult to recover lost costs. The biggest advantage is the ability to compare a number of vehicles.
Public and private auction – You can find hidden gem at an auction, but you can also act on impulse and spend too much without inspecting the vehicle first.
Consider your options, and consider what method you feel most comfortable with as a buyer.
Inspect the Car
Once you’ve found your ideal car you need to inspect it visually and mechanically. Scrutinize the interior and exterior visually as much as possible. Look for scrapes, rust and any indication of prior accidents.
You also need to take a thorough look at the vehicle information package (UVIP). It’s an offense under the Highway Traffic Act for the seller not to provide the buyer with a UVIP, which contains:
1. A description of the vehicle, including:
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Plate Number
Year, Make
Model
Colour
Body Type
Cylinders
Power
Status
Brand
2. Ontario vehicle registration history
3. Odometer information
4. Outstanding debts (liens) on the vehicle
5. Wholesale and retail values, if available
6. Retail sales tax requirements
7. Bill of sale
8. Tips on vehicle safety standards inspections
Take a Test Drive
Take the car for a test drive. Drive the car at different speeds and test the brakes. See how it handles turns, hills and acceleration. If you like the car, get a mechanic to inspect it more thoroughly. Although it’s an additional cost, it’s best to have an expert look at the car mechanically to verify its condition and identify any potential problems.
At this point, you know all you can about the car. Now’s the time to negotiate.
Finalize the Purchase
Once you’ve found the right car at the right price, it’s time to make the purchase. The seller must give you the UVIP after the sale has been completed. Both the seller and buyer must sign the application for transfer and the seller must also provide a bill of sale. Make sure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the car matches the VIN on the permit.
It’s important to note that the car will remain registered in the seller’s name until the vehicle transfer has been completed at ServiceOntario. Once you’ve purchased the car and completed paperwork, the next step is to register the car with the government and get it insured. To register the car, you’ll need the safety test certificates, your driver’s license, the UVIP, the bill of sale and the vehicle permit. Once you have your license plate and validation sticker, you’re all set to drive on!
If you want a pre-purchase car inspection or you’ve just purchased a used car that needs a check-up, find a Jiffy Lube near you!
Why Rust Proofing Can Save Your Car and Your Wallet
Please note: Not all Jiffy Lube locations offer rust proofing services, so please check the full service listing at your local Jiffy Lube.
Although they can be beautiful, Canadian winters are not kind to your car. As a responsible car owner you know that there are many steps to winterizing your car from putting on those ground gripping winter tires, to making sure your battery will start your car each and every frigid morning.
Yet another hazard of ice and snow is the damage they can cause to your vehicle in the form of rust! Ice and snow wear away your car’s rust protection over time and can lead to corrosion, which can be a major safety issue.
The salt, sand and gravel that are poured into our streets each and every winter to combat the hazards of snow and ice can cause rust corrosion. Small dents and scratches caused by salt flying up and hitting your vehicle allows the snow to creep in under the rust protection and cause even greater damage.
Rust proofing your car in Canada is a must to not only save you money but also to keep you and your passengers safe!
Types of Rust Proofing
Rust proofing can be performed in several different ways:
Electric Module – This may sound ‘shocking’ but a small device is installed in your car which sends a weak electrical current through the metal to prevent rusting.
Tar-based Spray – A spray applied to wheel wells and other exposed parts of the undercarriage of your car, which hardens to become a protective coating.
Dripless Oil Spray – A colourless spray applied to the entire body of the car, and as the name suggestions is dripless upon drying!
Drip Oil Spray – You might be asking “why use an oil spray that drips, when there’s one that doesn’t!?”. Although these sprays do drip due to being more watery, this feature helps the spray reach harder to reach places on your vehicle than the dripless would on its own.
Visiting a car wash regularly is an easy and effective way to rid your vehicle of salt build-up and will also help to prevent rusting and corrosion. Be sure to wait a week before visiting a car wash after getting your car rust proof sprayed. This will allow the formula to solidify and further protect your car.
Car Safety First!
Some car parts are more prone to rust than others. These are just a few parts that you should check that are essential to protect from rust to ensure vehicle safety:
Exhaust System
Chassis
Frame
Engine
Painted Surfaces
Many of these areas cannot be seen by simply walking around the outside of your vehicle as the undercarriage is pelted with salt and ice flying up from your tires on a regular basis. It is important to have this area of your vehicle inspected and rust proofed to ensure the safety of everyone in the vehicle.
The Bottom Line
A car is a big investment, and should be treated with the utmost care. Due to advancements in technology many cars are able to last over 10 years these days. Rust proofing your car is an excellent way to keep your car performing its best longer.
In addition, rust proofing will also reduce the amount of maintenance your car will need as it ages which will save you money down the road!
When Should you Rust Proof?
Don’t wait! Although this winter is almost over, loose road gravel, dirt and rain will have a similar corrosion causing effect to snow and salt on your vehicle. If you wait until you start seeing rust on the more visible parts of your vehicle, rusting and corrosion has already started in the less visible parts.
You should always get dents and scratches fixed as soon as you find them to prevent rusting from the beginning.
Why Synthetic Oil Is Set To Replace Conventional Oil
The switch from conventional oil to synthetic oil
You drive into your local Jiffy Lube® and find out that they no longer supply the conventional motor oil you’ve been using since the day you got your first car. The first question that must be going through your mind is, why is synthetic oil replacing conventional oil?
Why synthetic oil will replace conventional oil
All automotive service establishments, including Jiffy Lube® Ontario, have been making the switch from (GF-5) conventional oil to (GF-6) synthetic motor oil. This shift is to support the ongoing push for greater fuel economy. In fact, by 2024, 8 out of 10 cars produced in North America will be equipped with Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) engines, and these engines require the increased protection that only GF-6 motor oil can provide. The good news – today’s new GF-6 oils are backwards compatible for most gasoline-powered vehicles on the road today, even older ones.
What’s the difference between conventional oil and synthetic oil?
Conventional oil is a lubricant refined from crude oil, whereas synthetic motor oil is man-made with high-quality chemical compounds. This perfectly curated blend of motor oil is better for your engine, reducing wear and tear and contributing to a longer engine lifespan, and better for your fuel economy. It’s a win-win!
Advantages of synthetic oil over conventional oil
Reduce engine wear: The synthetic compound contains performance-enhancing products, protecting your engine better than conventional oil. This reduces the wear and tear to your engine, meaning fewer repairs and more money in your pocket.
Increased Fuel Mileage: Synthetic oil has a lower viscosity allowing the oil to move smoothly through the engine. This reduces friction and increases fuel economy allowing you to travel farther before your car calls for a fuel top-up.
It keeps the engine clean – As we all know, our engine calls for timely oil changes to prevent sludge from forming. Fortunately, this is less likely to happen with synthetic oil as the compound prevents deposit formation, keeping your engine free from debris.
Better all-weather protection – In cold conditions, common in Ontario, conventional oil takes longer to run smoothly, risking the life span of your engine. However, synthetic oil can flow easier and protect your engine at a much faster rate.
Improving Horsepower: Synthetic oil’s enhanced ability to reduce friction means you can expect your car to move faster than it has before.
Which synthetic oil is best for your vehicle?
As a starting point, you should check your vehicle owner’s manual recommendations to see the grade of motor oil your car requires. Your vehicle’s manual will contain a symbol to tell you what type of compounds your engine calls for, and these symbols can also be found on the synthetic motor oil bottle. Though this switch may appear daunting, rest assured it isn’t one you have to make on your own.
Your local Jiffy Lube® experts will make this switch stress-free. Drive into your local Jiffy Lube® Ontario location and let us take care of your vehicle for you. Our Signature ServiceGuaranteewarrants our products and workmanship for 3 months or 5,000 km after the service.
Leave it to the Jiffy Lube® warranty-approved experts to install the right synthetic oil for your vehicle. For more information about our oil changes and other vehicle maintenance services available at your local Jiffy Lube®, click the Find a Jiffy Lube® button below.
Why You Should Never Go to Jiffy Lube®
You’ve heard a bunch of people praising Jiffy Lube® for its quick and convenient drive-thru vehicle maintenance. But maybe you’re still skeptical.
It turns out there are a ton of reasons why you shouldn’t drive into Jiffy Lube®!
Reason #1: You don’t want your car to run smoothly
You like to take risks. You live for the thrill of seeing if your car will start each morning, or if you will be stranded somewhere because you neglected vehicle maintenance.
Reason #2: You want to spend money on a new car
You want a new car. Who doesn’t love car payments? It’s tough to convince your spouse it’s time to get a new vehicle when your car is working perfectly fine thanks to Jiffy Lube® car maintenance.
Reason #3: You love spending time at the dealership
You enjoy spending time at car dealerships and find the anticipation of waiting weeks for your service appointment exciting. The coffee, the old magazines, the long waits, the forced small talk. What’s not to love?
Reason #4: You want to spend time away from home
The only place you get a break from the boredom or chaos of your household is the peace and quiet of your car. Jiffy Lube® oil changes typically only take 15-30 minutes, and you can drive in whenever it’s convenient for you. This means you’ll need to go home sooner than later.
Reason #5: There are too many convenient locations
You are annoyed at the fact that there’s a Jiffy Lube® everywhere you go. Did you know that there are over 60 Jiffy Lube® locations in Ontario?
Reason #6: They have too many money-saving coupons
Jiffy Lube® regularly distributes money-saving coupons and runs promotional offers, so who knows how much you’ll save servicing your vehicle there.
Reason #7: You don’t want to win monthly cash prizes
You hate having chances to win. By being a Jiffy Lube® Advantage Member, you are automatically entered into a monthly cash draw. Enough already!
Reason #8: You don’t value safe, touchless service
You crave physical touch and closeness during COVID-19. We’re talking firm handshakes and close talking. Jiffy Lube® offers a touchless experience and their technicians are way too focused on preventing the transfer of viruses and germs. Where’s the fun in that? You were hoping to call in sick for work.
Reason #9: You don’t want to spend time doing fun things you truly enjoy
You have too much time on your hands. You have nothing to do but pursue hobbies and leisure activities. Frankly, it’s getting old and quick oil changes certainly won’t help.
Reason #10: You want to wait weeks for an appointment
Booking appointments brings you joy. When you look at your calendar, you like it to be stacked like bricks. Appointments give you something to look forward to, and you like it when businesses tell you when they can squeeze you in for routine oil changes. Jiffy Lube® is always appointment-free, so there goes that fun!
Reason #11: You’re already an expert on car maintenance
You—or your partner—consider yourself to be an expert in car maintenance. You’ve heard rumours that Jiffy Lube® technicians try to educate customers to make more informed choices about their vehicle. Forget that! No one knows better than you. Protect your ego and stay away.
Reason #12: You want to get your hands dirty
You love getting your hands dirty—literally. That’s why you take care of your own oil changes. Nothing beats disposing of old oil and spending an hour at the sink scrubbing grease, oil, and ingrained dirt from your hands and from under your fingernails. Plain soap and water don’t work very well, but you’ve got lots of industrial cleaner on hand that dries out your skin.
And there you have it: 12 solid reasons why you shouldn’t go to Jiffy Lube®. Consider yourself warned! If you choose to drive in and have a quick and friendly experience despite these warnings, don’t say we didn’t tell you so. ;)
Why You Shouldn’t Drive on Winter Tires in the Warm Months
Spring in Canada has sprung! Longer days. Warmer temperatures. Road trip plans.
Not so fast.
Do you have your winter tires off your vehicle yet? If not, you should. Once temperatures consistently rise above freezing temperature, it’s recommended that winter tires be replaced with all-season or summer tires.
There are several reasons why you should switch your tires after a Canadian winter. Here are our top four reasons why you should not drive on winter tires once the season changes.
Reason 1: Your Tires Will Wear Out More Quickly
Winter tires are designed to perform better in cold and snowy conditions because they are made of a special rubber compound that stays soft and pliable in low temperatures. This allows them to maintain better traction on snow and ice-covered roads.
However, when the weather gets warmer, the rubber in winter tires becomes too soft and can wear out more quickly, leading to reduced performance. If you drive on winter tires in the warmer months, be prepared for more frequent tire replacements.
Reason 2: The Wrong Tires Can Make Your Vehicle Unsafe
In addition to the issue of rubber composition, winter tires have a more aggressive tread pattern that is designed to grip and bite into snow and ice. While this design is great for winter driving in Canada, it can reduce handling and braking performance on dry or wet roads in warmer weather. This is because the larger tread blocks and deeper grooves can reduce the amount of rubber in contact with the road, reducing traction and grip. It’s a safety concern.
Driving on winter tires in warm weather can also increase fuel consumption. This is due to the increased rolling resistance caused by winter tire design and composition. You will likely have to spend more money on gas if you do not change your winter tires. Save money and change them today!
Driving on winter tires in warm weather can also increase fuel consumption. This is due to the increased rolling resistance caused by winter tire design and composition. You will likely have to spend more money on gas if you do not change your winter tires. Save money and change them today!
Driving on winter tires in warm weather can harm the environment. Your engine needs to work harder to overcome the rolling resistance created by the aggressive tread pattern and different rubber composition, leading to more emissions.
Since improper tire use can also lead to more frequent tire replacements, that produces even more emissions. After all, the production of tires requires energy and resources. Additional tire disposals can contribute to environmental impact as well. Do your part and get your tires switched sooner than later.
Driving on the right type of tires for the season and weather conditions is an important step in maintaining vehicle safety, saving the environment, and saving you money.
We encourage you to drive into one of our service bays at your convenience for a no-appointment tire switch.! Just drive in and drive on. Reword as not all locations provide this service.
The cold winter weather is just around the corner—don’t let it take you by surprise. Plan ahead and winterize your vehicle to keep you and everyone else on the road safe!
We all have that list of responsibilities that piles up quicker than we can check them off; at Jiffy Lube Ontario, we are here to keep you organized and safe this season. Check out our helpful winter driving tips before the slush is sloshing and the snow is falling!
Invest in Winter Tires
All-season tires start to lose their grip at +7 degrees Celsius, and they prove to not be as effective as winter tires in heavy snow and ice. By purchasing a set of winter tires, you’ll shorten your braking distance up to 25% and gain additional traction—this could be the difference between staying safe and risking unnecessary collisions. Winter tires may be an investment, but they are one worth making!
Drivers with winter tires are eligible for the Ontario insurance discount. Ask your insurance provider about the opportunity for cost savings on your policy.
Pack a Survival Kit
Make your own mini survival kit for those unexpected roadblocks. As a starting point, we’ve put together a helpful list of items to pack:
winter gloves
a blanket
booster cables
windshield wiper fluid
a first aid kit
a flashlight (or other source of light)
a snow brush
a safety vest
water
energy snacks (that will keep through the winter)
a cell phone charger
a GPS (or other source of navigation system)
Prioritize Everyone’s Safety
Before the winter season officially starts, speak to your employer about their protocol for bad weather. Ask whether it’s possible to work from home or work flexible hours to commute at a safer time. If either of these are not an option, you need to leave earlier, drive safely, and always be aware of your surroundings.
Do NOT Rely on Cruise Control
Avoid using cruise control in the snow, ice, or rain. If your vehicle hydroplanes or skids, you will continue to accelerate and your tires will overspin—by staying in control of your speed, it’s easier to react to the road conditions around you.
Keep Your Tank Full and Your Phone Charged
In case of an emergency, always keep a full tank of gas and a fully charged phone. Not only does a full tank of gas provide you with a safety net if you get stuck in traffic, it adds weight to your vehicle that will slow it down in harsh conditions. As a helpful tip, keep a spare cellphone charger in your car in case your battery runs low.
Communicate
Don’t leave your loved ones on the edge of their seats—let them know when you safely arrive at your destination. Create a habit of communicating with someone (your mother, sibling, significant other, or friend) when you leave and arrive at your destination so somebody knows where you are at all times.
Even if you don’t have an active cell phone plan, you can dial 911 with no added charge to your bill.
Rushing is NOT an Option
Winter driving requires patience and precautious thinking Set your alarm to go off 10-15 minutes earlier so there’s time to clear the snow and ice from your vehicle’s windows, lights, mirrors, and roof. Then, start your vehicle and wait for the interior windows to clear so your vision will be unhindered.
This winter, stay alert, slow down, and stay in control. With 59 Ontario locations, Jiffy Lube offers a great place to pull over for some preventive maintenance or even to stop in for a coffee while you wait out the bad weather.
Have a #winterdriving tip you’d like to add to the list? Tweet us @JiffyLubeON!
Winter Tires vs. All Season Tires
The tire has come a long way since it was invented. At first, it was just a wheel. The design progressed by adding a rubber strip around the wheel which made for a smoother ride. That said, there was still a lot of work to be done to evolve the wheel to what we know and use today.
Flash forward! We have so many different types of tires we can purchase for optimal functionality – almost too many.
One of the most common questions automobile owners ask when purchasing tires is “What is the difference between all-season tires and winter tires?”
The key difference is the tread on winter tires vs. all season tires. All season tires can harden in low temperatures, so there’s less traction between the road and the tires. Winter tires use a special rubber compound that stays pliable in cold weather, optimizing the tires for winter weather by providing better grip and improved braking in extreme conditions. So now that you know the difference, how do you know which tires are right for your car?
All-season tires:
All season tires are perfect for those who are going to be driving in milder winter conditions. For example, heavy rain, snowfall that melts fairly quickly, and slush. They are great for warm, dry and mild wet conditions, too.
Quick Facts:
All-season tires help provide traction and grip in mild wet and snowy conditions
Manufactured specifically to provide secure handling and even tread wear in both wet and dry conditions
Generally, a harder compound in order to get longer tread life, which starts to lose traction at 7°C and lower
In winter, snow and slush can clog the tire channels, which can create unsafe driving conditions for winter roads
Although all-season tires offer more traction in a variety of different weather conditions, winter tires surpass them when it comes to driving through snow and ice.
Winter tires:
Winter tires are the be-all-end-all for rough winter weather conditions. Most drivers discover that purchasing winter tires helps to provide a sense of confidence and control in challenging winter weather conditions. You’ll need winter tires for harsh winter conditions with lots of snow, ice, and freezing rain on the road. Anyone living in the great white north, or anywhere with harsh snowfalls, should definitely consider upgrading to winter tires for the season.
While not mandatory in every province, the Canadian Government does recommend the use of winter tires. Some provinces have established stricter rules for winter tires, such as Quebec. In 2007, a law was passed that requires all drivers to have 4 winter tires on their vehicle from December 15th – March 15th.
Winter tires come with many perks, like insurance benefits. As of 2016, legally, insurance companies in Ontario are required to give discounts for drivers who buy winter tires for their cars. These reductions could be a maximum of 5%. This is a great incentive for drivers to remain accountable and keep the roads a safe place to drive.
At the end of the day, the need for winter tires depends on where you live and what conditions you will face when commuting in the winter months. In Ontario, you will likely want to install winter tires as conditions can range from moderate to extreme.
Drivers, be cautioned; just because you have had winter tires installed does not mean you shouldn’t be cautious when driving. Accidents do happen, so it’s important to remain as attentive as you would be without winter tires installed.
Quick Facts:
Winter tires will provide improved braking performance
You can be confident that winter tires will perform well in all types of winter weather conditions in Ontario – snow, sleet, ice, slush, wet, and even cold dry roads
Winter tires are designed to stay soft in cold temperatures for ultimate grip on snow and ice
They have uniquely formulated tread rubber that helps the tire stay pliable at low temperatures
They feature an aggressive tread that helps to decrease snow build up on the tires
Winter tires can be purchased either studded or non-studded, with several tread options to provide ultimate stability.
Is it a good idea to leave winter tires on all year round to combat the 4 seasons? We don’t suggest it. All-season tires have specially designed tread patters that result in a smooth and comfortable drive while still performing well in both wet and dry environments. Winter tires function optimally for heavy snow and ice because of the softer rubber they are manufactured with. Softer rubber will wear down faster, which means if you use your winter tires year round, you’ll find yourself replacing them often.
If you still aren’t sure what you need for your particular situation, come into Jiffy Lube® for an assessment! We can answer all of your tire-related questions, or any other vehicle questions you have.