Do winter tires save money on car insurance in Canada?

With files from joelkranc

This post was originally published on November 16, 2023 and was updated on October 31, 2025.

The winter season is right around the corner. For Canadian drivers, this means adjusting our driving habits to keep safe. Snow, ice and slush on roads all contribute to the likelihood of getting into a car accident. That’s why it’s time to think about winterizing our vehicles, starting with winter tires. 

Not only are they designed to handle the Canadian winter, but they can also get you a break on your car insurance. Some insurers will offer a winter tire discount because they help reduce the risk of making a claim.

However, the rules vary from province to province. Let’s break down whether winter tires will save you money on your car insurance in Canada. 

Are winter tires mandatory in Canada?

No, winter tires are not mandatory across all of Canada, but they are required in Quebec and on certain highways in British Columbia. 

Since 2008, Quebec has been the only province in Canada to require snow tires. From December 1st until March 15th, motor vehicles registered in the province must be equipped with winter tires. Drivers who don’t comply can face fines from $200 to $300. 

In British Columbia, winter tires or chains are required on certain highways that are marked with signs across the province. Passenger vehicles are required to have winter tires on these routes from October 1 until April 30. Drivers who do not comply will face a fine of $121.

The rest of the provinces do not require winter tires, but they are strongly encouraged. Some provinces also allow the use of studded tires for added safety. Most provinces list winter driving safety tips on their website that include the use of both winter and studded tires. 

A general recommendation is to start using winter tires when temperatures consistently drop below 7 °C, typically between October and November. At this temperature (or below), the rubber used in summer tires does not grip the road as well, making winter tires more effective for handling icy conditions. 

Can I get an insurance discount for installing winter tires in Canada?

Yes, in some provinces you can get a winter tire insurance discount. As of 2016, Ontario is the only province where the discount is mandated, but the exact amount is up to insurance companies to decide, typically between 3% and 5%. 

In all other Canadian provinces, insurers decide if they’ll offer a discount and how much. Some insurers also outline rules or guidelines that drivers must follow to qualify, such as installing the tires by a certain date. 

To receive the discount, ask either your insurance broker or provider directly when purchasing a new policy or at renewal. Since companies have different rules, it pays to shop around and compare auto insurance quotes from various providers to find the best rate. 

General rules to consider for getting an insurance discount:

1. Look for certified winter tires marked with a logo of a peaked mountain and a snowflake
2. Install a set of four winter tires
3. Ensure the tires have the same tread pattern and are the same size 

How much could I save with a winter tire insurance discount? 

A discount of 3%-5% may not seem like much, but the savings can add up over time. 

The table below shows that installing winter tires could save Ontario drivers more than $600 over a five-year period – $124 per year – according to Ratehub.ca’s auto insurance tool. 

^{The data is based on a 35-year-old male in Mississauga, Ontario, driving a 2023 Toyota Corolla 4dr hatchback without policy bundling or telematics discount applied, with a $ 1,000 collision and comprehensive deductible and a $1,000,000 liability deductible.} 

The actual cost savings you’ll receive depends on your location, car make and model, and driving history, among other factors. To see the savings you could get, compare auto quotes online. 

When is a good time to buy winter tires?

If you’re planning to get winter tires to reduce your auto insurance, the best time to buy them is when you buy the car, as dealers usually offer competitive pricing or incentives. If you already own a vehicle, early fall is also an excellent time to make a purchase, since people aren’t yet thinking about the switchover, and tire companies usually have new stock around that time. Deals can also be had before the winter rush. Avoid waiting until December when stores are busy and prices are high. Post-winter purchases might work as well, but stocks may be low after the seasonal rush.

When to install winter tires? 

As with the purchase, don’t wait to install your winter tires until the temperature dips below 7 °C or once you’ve hit the calendar date required by your insurance company. Late fall is a great time to think about installation, although keep in mind that warm roads may wear out your winter tires faster than usual. Also, make sure to change all four tires at the same time to ensure traction and control are consistent. If you already have winter tires, be sure to check them annually to see when they need to be replaced. 

The bottom line

With the winter season upon us, now is the time to consider installing winter tires on your vehicle. Not only do they add a layer of protection while driving in snowy and icy conditions, but they can also get you an insurance discount. In Ontario, insurers are required to offer you a discount at a percentage they decide on. In all other provinces, it’s up to insurance companies to decide whether or not to provide a discount. Since providers differ, compare auto insurance quotes to find the best coverage at the right price. 

Also read:

• 10 tips for safe winter driving
• Do you have enough car insurance?
• 15 ways to get cheap car insurance in Canada