There’s something about that first chilly morning that makes drivers sit up and think: is it time yet? If you’re wondering whether now’s the right moment to swap out your all-seasons, the short answer is yes. When temperatures dip below 7°C, winter tires offer better traction, handling, and safety. And if you’re driving in Edmonton, where winter likes to show up early and stick around longer than welcome, waiting too long can cost you more than just grip on the road.
But there’s more to winter prep than just the tire change. Alignment matters too—more than most people realize.
Why Winter Tires Matter in Edmonton
Edmonton winters are no joke. From black ice in November to deep snowbanks in January, you’re not doing yourself any favours trying to push your all-seasons past their limit. The rubber compound in winter tires is designed to stay soft in the cold, which means better traction and shorter stopping distances.
All-seasons? They stiffen up when it gets cold. That means less contact with the road and a higher chance of slipping when you brake, turn, or hit a patch of snow. Even if there’s no snow on the ground yet, cold pavement is enough reason to make the switch.
The Hidden Risk: Poor Alignment
Here’s where a lot of drivers miss the mark. Let’s say you do everything right—swap out your tires early, check the pressure, even store your summers properly. But if your wheels aren’t aligned? You’re still risking uneven wear, poor traction, and even lower fuel efficiency.
Winter conditions amplify alignment problems. If your tires are even slightly out of spec, snow and ice will pull your vehicle off track more easily. You’ll feel it in the steering, in the way the car drifts, and eventually, in how quickly your brand-new winter tires wear out.
A quick alignment check can help make sure your car drives straight, handles properly, and gets the most out of every set of tires—no matter the season.
What About Tire Storage?
Not everyone has the space to store an extra set of tires in their garage or shed. At Bruce Stewart Auto, we make that part simple. When you book your winter tire change, you can store your all-seasons with us. Clean, climate-controlled, and off your hands until spring rolls back around.
It’s one of those things you don’t think you need—until you realize how much space you’ve freed up at home and how easy it is not to lug four heavy tires around twice a year.
How to Tell It’s Time
You don’t need snow on the ground to book your winter service. The real indicator is temperature. Once we hit consistent lows under 7°C, the rubber in all-season tires starts to harden. That’s when performance drops—and safety becomes an issue.
Not sure what shape your current tires are in? We’ll inspect the tread depth, sidewalls, and pressure for you. If they’re still in good condition, we’ll reinstall them. If not, we’ll walk you through your options with zero pressure.
Want to get ahead of the rush? Booking early means you’ll skip the long lines when the first snow hits.
A Quick Word on Used Winter Tires
Thinking about picking up a used set to save money? It’s a common move, but make sure you know what you’re getting. Tires that look fine on the outside might have uneven wear, dry rot, or too little tread to perform properly. We’re happy to take a look and let you know if they’re safe to install.
Sometimes saving $100 upfront costs you more in the long run—especially if it means replacing the set again mid-season or risking a breakdown on the highway.
Book with Confidence
At Bruce Stewart Auto, we’ve been helping Edmonton drivers get ready for winter for decades. Whether it’s your first car or your family’s SUV, we’ll treat it like our own. Our tire and alignment services are fast, professional, and always upfront with pricing.
Need new winter tires? We’ll help you choose the right ones for your vehicle and budget. Already have a set? We’ll inspect, install, and align with care—no upsell, no guesswork.
Let’s Get You Set for the Season
Don’t wait for the first storm. Book your winter tire change and alignment service today at Bruce Stewart Auto—your trusted tire shop in Edmonton. Let’s make sure you and your vehicle are ready for whatever winter throws your way.
Call us at 780.465.2783 or visit our tire services page to book online.
