Winter in Kitchener-Waterloo brings new driving challenges—icy roads, snow squalls, and fluctuating temperatures. For local vehicle owners, swapping out your tires is one of the most important steps in preparing for the season. But even seasoned drivers can make mistakes when changing over to winter tires, putting their safety—and their vehicle—at risk. At Sullivan Automotive, we see these pitfalls every year. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your winter tire change is done right, and your drive stays safe all winter long.
1. Waiting Until the Last Minute
The rush is real! Many drivers wait until after the first snowfall or cold snap before thinking about winter tires. This leads to long appointment wait times and, more importantly, means you may face slippery roads with inadequate tires.
Tip: Book your winter tire change as soon as daily temperatures drop consistently below 7°C—often late October or early November in Kitchener-Waterloo.
2. Only Changing Two Tires Instead of Four
Some believe putting winter tires on just the front or rear is enough. In reality, this can cause dangerous imbalances, affecting your vehicle’s handling, traction, and braking.
Tip: Always install winter tires on all four wheels. This ensures balanced grip and stability, especially when cornering or braking on icy roads.
3. Ignoring Tire Condition
Winter tires with worn-out treads or cracks won’t provide the grip you need. Old, damaged, or poorly stored tires can be just as risky as not having winter tires at all.
Tip: Inspect for tread depth, sidewall cracks, bulges, or embedded debris. Not sure? Bring them to Sullivan Automotive—our techs will check your tires and make honest recommendations.
4. Forgetting to Check Tire Pressure
Tire pressure drops as the temperature does. Underinflated tires decrease fuel efficiency, increase wear, and reduce traction.
Tip: Check tire pressure at least once a month through the winter, and especially after your tire swap. Our team always ensures proper inflation during your service.
5. Not Re-Torquing Your Lug Nuts
Lug nuts can loosen slightly after installation due to temperature changes and regular driving.
Tip: After changing tires, re-torque your lug nuts within 100 km to ensure a safe, secure fit. We remind all Sullivan Automotive customers of this important step!
6. Overlooking Wheel Alignment
Hitting potholes or curbs during winter can knock your alignment off, leading to uneven tire wear and poor handling.
Tip: Ask for a wheel alignment check when you get your tires changed, or if you notice your vehicle pulling to one side.
7. Neglecting to Store Summer Tires Properly
Throwing your summer tires in a damp garage corner can lead to damage by spring.
Tip: Clean, inspect, and store tires in a cool, dry, dark place.
Trust Your Local Experts at Sullivan Automotive
As a family-owned shop in Kitchener-Waterloo, we know how Ontario winters can test both drivers and vehicles. That’s why we offer:
- Tire sales and installation
- Tire inspections
- Wheel alignments
- Routine inspections and repairs
Ready to book your winter tire change?
Schedule an appointment online or call us at 519-748-5444.
You can also visit us at 55 Shoemaker Street Unit 9, Kitchener, ON.
Avoid the most common tire change mistakes—trust Sullivan Automotive to keep you and your family safe on the roads all winter long.
For more vehicle ownership and seasonal maintenance tips, check out the Sullivan Automotive blog.
