{
  "id": 18557888,
  "title": "Almost time to change your tires as winter driving approaches in Toronto",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/06/almost-time-to-change-your-tires-as-winter-driving-approaches-in",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-06T19:23:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "CityNews",
    "slug": "citynews",
    "url": "https://toronto.citynews.ca/2026/11/06/almost-time-to-change-your-tires-as-winter-driving-approaches-in-toronto/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As winter approaches in Toronto and much of southern Ontario, it's time to consider switching to winter tires. OK Tire in Etobicoke is already preparing for the peak demand, with General Manager Sean Cooney-Mann reporting that they are about 65 per cent busy. Once snow begins and temperatures drop below 7 C, Cooney-Mann advises having a winter-approved tire installed.\n\nMany customers ask if they can install winter tires before the ideal time. Cooney-Mann suggests that those who commute frequently should wait until the weather turns, while casual weekend drivers can go ahead and install the tires now. He emphasizes that as long as the tire has good tread and depth, it is safe to drive on.\n\nAlthough all-weather tires with winter-approved snowflake ratings can suffice in urban areas, Cooney-Mann recommends winter tires for superior braking and control. On average, these tires last five to seven seasons, though some may be in rough condition, with some reaching 12 years. He demonstrated two tires in poor shape, one with rubber peeling off and another lacking tread and siping.\n\nAlongside tire maintenance, Cooney-Mann recommends checking other aspects of the vehicle. Confirming air pressure in the correct tires, ensuring wiper blades are in good condition, and checking fluid levels (oil, washer fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid) are crucial. Experts from CAA, Nadia Matos, suggest keeping essential supplies in the vehicle for emergencies, such as an emergency kit containing a blanket, ice scraper, tools, charging cables, tea lights for warmth, a shovel for traction, and extra socks, toques, and clothing to stay warm until help arrives.",
  "summary": "Toronto and most of southern Ontario has been enjoying warmer temperatures but it’s approaching that time of year when you need to start making the switch to winter tires. The staff at OK Tire in Etobicoke said they are already ramping up for the peak of getting winter tires installed. “We’re about 65 per cent […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}