Ontario law (Regulation 364/20) mandates winter tires from October 15 to April 15. York's climate conditions with temperatures regularly dropping below 7°C make this non-negotiable for safety. Winter tires maintain traction and flexibility in cold, while all-season tires become hard and slippery, increasing accident risk. Winter tire installation increases stopping distance by 25% compared to all-season on snow/ice, critical for York's heavy traffic where braking failure can cause multi-vehicle collisions. Failure to comply results in $695-$1,200 fines. Schedule installation before October 15 to avoid appointment delays.

Before installation appointment, have your vehicle wheels cleaned to remove salt accumulation that causes rim corrosion. Inspect tire sidewalls for bulges or damage from potholes - damaged tires cannot be safely installed. Verify winter tire condition and tread depth (minimum 6/32 inch, with penny test or professional measurement). Check stored winter tires for cracks or bead separation from improper storage. Have wheel alignment checked if tires have uneven wear patterns. Notify installer of any TPMS (tire pressure monitoring) sensor issues for recalibration during installation.

During October 15 - April 15 season: check tire pressure weekly (cold reduces PSI 1-2 pounds), measure tread depth every 4 weeks to ensure remaining depth above legal minimum 2/32 inch, rotate tires every 8,000 km for even wear, clean salt buildup from rims monthly with fresh water to prevent corrosion, and inspect sidewalls after winter weather events for damage. At season end (April 15), have professional inspection of tire condition and rim corrosion assessment. Winter tires should be stored in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight until next season (October). Replace if tread drops below 4/32 inch to avoid hydroplaning risks.