(File Photo/paNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Is It Time?

P.A. drivers starting to replace winter tires, but is now the right time?

Mar 30, 2023 | 3:00 PM

There might still be snow on the ground, but some drivers Prince Albert are already replacing their winter tires.

Multiple tire shops in the community have told paNOW they’ve already started getting their first appointments booked, but they’re expecting things to really pick up next week.

“It usually starts around the 1^st of April and usually goes into the third week (of the month),” said Eddy Winkel, the manager of P.A.’s Fountain Tire.

He explained once they start getting flooded with calls, it can take someone several days before they can get their tires replaced.

The good news is that driving around on winter tires in the city when the temperature is above zero shouldn’t cause too many issues.

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“The summer tire changeover isn’t as imperative as the winter season, just because a person can wait those extra couple of days… it’s not going to hurt them that bad,” added Winkel.

However, those who plan on driving on the highways in above-temperature weather should get their tires changed first.

“If people just drive around town, it won’t do anything. But if you’re going highway driving you could start prematurely wearing tires,” added Aaron Branscombe, the manager of Access Tire.

He and Winkel explained it’s usually when the temperature is consistently between seven and 10 degrees that you should make an appointment immediately.

As for those who don’t want to wait several days for an appointment, tire shops are recommending you make an appointment sooner rather than later.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow