When Should I Change My Winter Tires? Here’s What You Need to Know

Posted on March 14, 2025

When Should I Change My Winter Tires? Here’s What You Need to Know

Spring has finally arrived! The snow is melting, temperatures are rising, and that means it’s time to ask: "When should I change my winter tires?" If you’re wondering when to swap out your winter tires for summer or all-season tires, you’re not alone. Many drivers wait too long, which can lead to unnecessary wear, poor fuel efficiency, and reduced safety.

In this guide, we’ll answer the key question—when should I change my winter tires?—and explain why making the switch at the right time is crucial for your car’s performance and longevity.

When Should I Change My Winter Tires?

A general rule of thumb is to switch your winter tires when temperatures consistently stay above 7°C (45°F). At this point, winter tires start to wear out faster and lose their effectiveness on dry or wet pavement.

If you're still driving on winter tires in warmer weather, you may experience:
✔ Increased tire wear – Soft winter rubber degrades quickly on warm roads.
✔ Reduced fuel efficiency – More rolling resistance means your engine works harder.
✔ Longer stopping distances – Winter tires don’t grip as well on dry pavement.

For most drivers, March or April is the best time to change winter tires, depending on where you live. If you're unsure, check your local weather forecast and look for consistent temperatures above 7°C.

Why Changing Your Winter Tires at the Right Time Matters

1. Better Performance and Safety

Winter tires are built for snow and ice, not dry and warm pavement. If you keep them on too long, you’ll notice:

• Slower braking
• Weaker handling and cornering
• Increased risk of hydroplaning in rain

Switching to summer or all-season tires ensures better grip, shorter stopping distances, and a smoother ride.

2. Save Money on Gas

Winter tires create extra rolling resistance, which forces your engine to burn more fuel. Changing them at the right time helps you improve gas mileage and reduce costs at the pump.

3. Extend the Life of Your Winter Tires

Leaving winter tires on too long shortens their lifespan. By swapping them out in spring, you’ll keep them in great condition for next winter. Otherwise, you may need to replace them sooner than expected.

What Tire Should You Switch to?

Now that you know when to change your winter tires, let’s discuss what type of tires you should install next.

☀ Summer Tires (Best for Performance)

• Ideal for warm, dry, and wet conditions
• Superior handling and braking
• Best for performance-oriented driving

🌦 All-Season Tires (Best for Convenience)

• Can handle a variety of conditions
• Longer lifespan than summer tires
• Great for drivers who don’t want to swap tires again

Not sure which option is best? Contact us for expert tire recommendations!

How to Store Your Winter Tires

Once you change your winter tires, make sure to store them properly so they last longer.

✔ Clean them first – Remove dirt and road salt to prevent damage.
✔ Store in a cool, dry place – Avoid sunlight, extreme heat, and moisture.
✔ Use tire storage bags – Protects them from dust and drying out.
✔ Check for damage – If they’re worn, consider replacing them before next winter.

Need tire storage? Check our tire storage services here!

Book Your Tire Change Early – Avoid the Rush!

Spring is one of the busiest seasons for tire changes, so don’t wait until the last minute! Schedule your appointment in advance to avoid long wait times and ensure your vehicle is ready for warmer weather.

📞 Call us now or book your tire change online!

FAQs – When Should I Change My Winter Tires?

1. Can I drive on winter tires in warm weather?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. Winter tires wear out quickly in warm conditions and don’t perform well on dry pavement.

2. What happens if I change my winter tires too early?

If temperatures drop below 7°C, summer and all-season tires may have less grip. Always check the forecast before switching.

3. Do I need an alignment when changing my tires?

It’s a good idea! Alignments help prevent uneven tire wear and improve handling.

4. How much does a tire change cost?

Most dealerships and shops charge $50-$100 for a seasonal tire swap. Contact us for a quote on installation, balancing, and storage.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been asking, "When should I change my winter tires?", now you have your answer!

Once temperatures stay above 7°C, it’s time to make the switch. Changing your tires at the right time keeps you safe, saves money, and extends the life of your tires.

📞 Call us now at Rendez-Vous Nissan or book your tire change online!