It’s official, winter is here. That means it’s time to switch to into your winter tires. Whether you have a set in storage or need new winter tires for your car, SUV, or truck, Goldwing Auto Care makes it fast and easy to get winter ready. Our certified technicians specialize in professional tire changes, balancing, and installation of top winter tire brands, so you can stay safe and confident on icy roads this season.
You Can Still Beat The Rush, Book Your Appointment Now!
If you’re waiting until the snow falls you’re already late. Like every other tire shop in Ottawa, we book out weeks in advance. To ensure you’re not stranded in bad weather or stuck waiting for an opening, call the shop or request a quote now.
Why are Winter Tires Essential for Ottawa Drivers?
In Ottawa, winters are unpredictable. It can go from freezing rain one day, to deep snow the next. All weather, or all season tires can’t grip cold, icy pavement the way winter tires do. When temperatures drop below 7°C, your winter tires stay flexible, maintain traction and improve braking distance, while handling the snow, slush, and ice. The safest thing you can do is invest in a quality set of winter tires, especially if you drive with loved ones.
Main Benefits of Having Winter Tires,
- Shorter stopping distances on snow, slush and ice.
- Better traction and steering response below 7°C.
- Improved stability during cornering and braking in cold conditions.
- Safer driving during Ottawa’s many freeze and thaw cycles.
When Should You Switch to Your Winter Tires?
Owners Peter and Adam Gard always say, the best time to install winter tires is “when temperatures consistently hit 7°C“. In a city like Ottawa, that’s usually between late October and early November. Adam says “a good time to book your appointment is a week or two after Thanks Giving“. By this time the temperature is hitting 7ºC, plus waiting too long can put you at risk of being caught in a freak storm, or dealing with appointment delays during peak tire changing season.
When to Remove Your Winter Tires?
Alternatively, it’s safe to switch back into your all season or summer tires when spring temperatures stay above 7°C. Driving too long on winter tires in warmer weather will lead to faster tread wear and reduce your fuel efficiency. At Goldwing we provide fast, effective tire changes, with options for seasonal storage to make your changeover stress free.
For a complete winter tire break down check out the links below.
How To Choose the Right Winter Tires for Your Vehicle
Unfortunately, not all winter tires perform the same. Different driving habits and vehicles will require different levels of traction. The right set depends on your vehicle type, how you drive and where you drive the most. From daily commuting across Ottawa’s icy roads or navigating our snow covered highways, let us recommend the perfect set for you and your vehicle.
At Goldwing, We Provide:
- Expert guidance based on your driving style and local weather conditions.
- Tires in every size, available for cars, trucks, SUVs, and high performance or luxury vehicles.
- Studded and non-studded options for maximum traction and interprovincial compliance.
- Fast, onsite installation with Road Force balancing, and tire pressure checks.
Visit our showroom or call today, we’ll help you find a safe and reliable winter tire setup for your vehicle.
Try Our Tire Visualizer,
Our tire visualizer makes it easy to find the winter tires based on your specific tire size or vehicle. Simply enter your tire size or select your specific vehicle model, and we’ll show you a variety of options that will fit.
Try Our Tire Visualizer For An Idea of What’s Available For Your Vehicle
Premium Winter Tire Brands You Can Trust
We’re a Yokohama shop, but we have long lasting relationships with all major winter tire manufacturers. We only stock tires brands known for safety, reliability, and exceptional winter performance. Winter models from these brands have been engineered specifically to perform in many situations common with Canadian climates. Check out the list below for some of our top recommended winter tires from some of our preferred brands.
- Yokohama Geolandar GO75 or iceGUARD IG53 –
- Nokian Hakkapeliitta – Trusted by Canadians for decades of winter driving confidence
- Michelin X-Ice – Exceptional grip and long tread life for harsh winter conditions
- Bridgestone Blizzak – Advanced ice-handling technology for ultimate control
- Continental VikingContact – Smooth, quiet ride with strong wet and snow traction
- Pirelli Winter Sottozero – Designed for high-performance vehicles and superior handling
Featured Winter Tire Brands.
Whatever you drive, we have the right tire in stock and ready for installation, backed by expert advice and professional service.
Simplify Seasonal Tire Changes with Our Storage & Maintenance Services
Tired of hauling and storing your tires? Goldwing offers secure, climate controlled tire storage facilities, right here in Ottawa. Take advantage of our storage options. When it’s time for your seasonal changeover, we’ll have your tires ready to go.
You can count on Goldwing for:
- Climate controlled, secure storage facility in Ottawa.
- Seasonal swaps handled by seasoned tire technicians.
- Tire cleaning and thorough inspection of your tire’s condition.
- Friendly reminders when it’s time to book your tire change.
Book your winter tire changeover and storage appointment now and drive into the season safely.
Drive Confidently This Winter with Goldwing Auto Care
When it comes to Ottawa winter driving, your tires are your first line of defence against unpredictable roads. At Goldwing, we make it easy to find, install, and maintain the perfect winter tire setup. Whether you need new tires, a seasonal changeover, or a safe place to store your tires, our team is ready to help you stay safe, with confidence, all winter long.
Book your winter tire appointment today, and beat the rush before the snow hits.
Looking For More Winter Driving Information?
Want to feel even more prepared for the winter ahead? Explore some of our other resources for expert advice on winter tires, cold-weather maintenance, and how to keep your vehicle performing safely when temperature drops.
Trusted by Winter Drivers for Over 30 Seasons
For more than three decades, we’ve helped Ottawa’s winter drivers stay safe and confident on the road, season after season. From professional tire installation to expert advice on winter traction, our team takes pride in delivering honest service and reliable results. Don’t take our word for it, see what our customers have to say about their winter tire experiences.
I’m a return customer to Adam and the crew. I’ve bought both winter and summer tires and have always been impressed. The website has very detailed with lots of excellent options. Adam and the staff are incredibly knowledgeable and offer excellent pricing. Why go anywhere else? -this is a terrific store.
Thanks guys!.
–Don A. on Google Maps
I was looking for rims and winter tires for an EV car. After search everywhere in Ottawa, these guys were the only place that had it in stock. They are very professional and they work with your schedule. We are very happy with our purchase and installation service here. The waiting area is nice too, with TV and free coffee. Highly recommended specially for stuff you can’t find anywhere else.
–Arash A. on Google Maps
I needed winter tires and rims for a new truck purchase. I researched most available places and decided on Goldwing Autocare. I was not disappointed by any means. The product supplied and the service rendered was amazing. A very professional team took care of my every need. They installed and balanced my tires so flawlessly that they are even better than what came from the factory. I wanted some tinting done and they were able to install it on the same visit. They have an amazing showroom and waiting room and from the time I spent there, I could see they take pride in all the work they do. Thanks Goldwing…I’ll be back and in the meantime, I’ll be spreading the word on what a great shop you have.
–Steven S. on Google Maps
Goldwing staff went above and beyond to help us find the right bolts for our winter tires, and the hub rings to go with them. Our service advisor was super knowledgeable, and shared a bunch of information with us that we otherwise would not have known. He was kind, patient, funny, and overall very pleasant to deal with. We had a great experience as customers here, and will definitely be making this our first stop shop for our vehicles from now on. Thank you Goldwing Autocare!
–Jen L. on Google Maps
Frequently Asked Questions,
When should I switch to winter tires?
Winter tires perform best when temperatures consistently fall below 7°C. In Ottawa, this usually happens around late October to early November (Thanksgiving). Waiting too long can mean reduced traction and longer waiting times for installation, so it’s smart to book your appointment ASAP.
How long do winter tires last?
With proper maintenance, a good set of winter tires can last 4 to 6 seasons depending on your driving habits and how you store them. Regular rotations, correct inflation (PSI), and storing them in a cool, dry environment (or using our tire storage service) will extend their lifespan significantly.
Can I use winter tires all year round?
We don’t recommended it. Winter tires are made from softer rubber compounds designed to stay flexible in cold weather. Using them in warmer months causes faster tread wear, reduced handling, and poor fuel efficiency. So, switch back to your all season or summer tires in the spring.
Do I need winter tires if my vehicle has all wheel drive?
Yes. AWD helps significantly, but it doesn’t improve braking or cornering on ice and snow. Your winter tires are engineered to grip frozen and slippery roads, making them essential (in some provinces legally required) for all vehicles, regardless of drivetrain.
How do I know what size winter tires I need?
Your correct tire size can be found in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door sill/jamb sticker. You can also bring your vehicle into our shop, our tire specialists will confirm the exact size and recommend the best fit for your driving needs and budget.
Want to know more about winter tire minus sizing?
