Tire Swapping Season Is Back! We're Here To Help!

Choosing the right tires can make all the difference when it comes to saftey, performance, and even saving money. At Lacombe Ford, we get that Alberta weather doesn't play nice. One week it's mild, the next you're sliding on black ice. So, here's a quick breakdown of the tire types, what that snowflake symbol really means, and how our Winter Performance Package can keep you covered all season long.

What Does The Snowflake Symbol Mean?

If a tire has the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, it's been offically tested for the performance in severe snow and cold-weather conditions. Only winter and all-weather tires can earn it, so if you see that symbol, you know the tire is ready for Alberta's toughest winter roads.

Did You Know?

That many areas in British Columbia legally require winter-rated tires from October 1st to April 30th? These rules are enforced by law, meaning motorist who aren't compliant can be turned away or fined. While it may seem strict, these regulations exist for everyone's safety. 

The highways and mountain passes covered by the rules are known for heavy snowfall and challenging road conditions, where proper traction can make all the difference. To meet these requirements and stay safe, your tires should carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symobol or M+S (Mud and Snow). Plus, be in good condition with a tread minimum requirement of 3.5mm, ensuring they will perform in severe winter conditions. 

Tire Types

All-Season Tires - These are designed for mild conditions. They handle rain and light snow fairly well, but once tempuratures dip below 7 C, their rubber starts to harden, reducing flexibility and traction.

All- Weather Tires - These are the middle ground between all-seasons and winter tires. Some brands carry the snowflake symbol, meaning they've tested and approved for winter traction. they're built to handle cold, slush, and light snow better then all-seasons, while still performing well in the warmer months. 

Winter Tires - These are built for the real deal: freezing tempuratures, snow, ice and everything inbetween. They, of course, carry the snowflake symbol and stay soft and grippy even below -30 C, giving you maximum control and stopping power when the roads get slick. On snow and ice, winter tires can stop up to 50% faster than all-season tires and up to 25% faster than all-weather tires, making them the safest choice for witner driving. 

The Winter Performance Package

First of all, what is a Winter Performance Package? At Lacombe Ford, this includes:

• Four Winter Tires

• Four Dedicated Winter Rims

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (Sensors)

Not only does the package come with built-in discounts on both the tires and rims, but it also saves you from having to pay for a full mount and balance every season.

Once you have a second set of rims, swapping your tires becomes a quick, affordable service instead of a full re-install. Over time, that adds up to major savings, especially if you keep your vehicle for serveral years.

And bonus: it looks cleaner, too. Dedicated winter rims keep your main set protected for the summer, and they give your ride a sharper, more finished look all winter long.