Expert Tips for High-Performance, Long-Lasting Winter Tires

As winter quickly approaches, your tires become the first line of defense between your vehicle and Québec’s often unpredictable roads. A complete inspection is essential to ensure your GM car, SUV, or truck maintains its stability, traction, and performance—no matter the conditions.

Here are the four key elements to check before the cold season, along with expert advice from our technicians.

Certification: The Key to Reliable Winter Performance

In Québec, the law requires the use of certified winter tires—and for good reason: your safety depends on it. Make sure your tires display the mountain and snowflake symbol (3PMSF logo). This marking guarantees that the tire has been tested and designed to provide the necessary grip on snow and ice for dependable, validated performance.

Tread Wear: Don’t Settle for the Legal Minimum

Tread depth is crucial for channeling water, slush, and gripping snow. Once a tire reaches the legal minimum, its winter performance is already significantly reduced. Try the simple 25-cent test: insert the coin into the tread. If you can see the caribou’s nose, the tire’s effectiveness is compromised—it’s time for a replacement.

Rubber Age: Don’t Underestimate Time

Even if the tread looks fine, the rubber in a tire ages and hardens over time, losing flexibility and essential grip. To check the real age of your tires, locate the 4-digit DOT code on the sidewall (the last two digits indicate the year of manufacture). Any tire over five years old should undergo a professional inspection to confirm its elasticity.

Air Pressure: Stability and Efficiency

Cold weather is the main cause of pressure drops in tires. Incorrect pressure affects stability, accelerates wear, and increases fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure monthly and adjust it based on the manufacturer’s specifications only.

Pro Tip: Plan Ahead for the 7°C Threshold

GM technicians recommend installing your winter tires as soon as temperatures drop below 7°C. At this point—even on dry pavement—your summer or all-season tires start to harden and lose grip. This is the single most critical factor for performance, even before the first snowfall.

A professional inspection ensures that all safety standards are met. Book your appointment today and drive with confidence this winter!