Schedule installation for mid-August through September 15 to avoid peak demand (late September has 2-3 week waits). Don't wait—early snow falls in September and roads become icy unpredictably. Many shops in Dawson City fill installation slots by late September, and waiting increases risk of encountering -20°C temperatures with summer tires. Book installation by end of July for mid-August service.

Professional installation includes tire mounting, static and dynamic balancing, valve stem replacement if necessary, tire pressure setting to manufacturer specification, and lug nut torque to OEM specs. In Dawson City, verify the shop includes stud count verification (for studded tires), tire pressure cycling check due to temperature swings, and rim inspection for damage from winter storage.

Professional storage in temperature-controlled facilities ($30-50/tire/season) is ideal—it prevents dry rot, maintains pressure stability, and avoids home storage space. Alternatively, store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and ozone sources. Never store tires outdoors. Tires stored in basements or unheated garages in Dawson City experience extreme temperature fluctuations that degrade rubber faster.

Yes—studs add rotational mass requiring verification of lug nut torque (typically 80-120 ft-lbs depending on vehicle). Studs cause vibration on rock-strewn roads, so confirm torque is set to OEM specification and re-check after first 50-100 miles. Loose lug nuts on studded tires can cause wheel wobble and dangerous loss of control on ice.

Call shops immediately if early snow arrives unexpectedly—shops can often fit emergency installations next-day if you arrive early. However, avoid this situation by installing tires by mid-September. Having dedicated winter wheels (less common in Dawson City) allows faster installation during emergencies. Keep a set of winter tire chains in your vehicle as emergency backup for situations where installation capacity is unavailable.