Frequently asked questions about Mazda winter tires

15 nov plmazda

 

Winter is just around the corner and as most know, the legal deadline for installing winter tires is approaching quickly. Although you have until December 1 to install winter tires on your Mazda, we all know that the first snow will likely appear before that. With the mornings and evenings getting progressively colder, now is the right time to start thinking about winter tires for your Mazda vehicle.

In this guide, we will take a look at the most frequently asked questions about Mazda winter tires to help you get a better sense of when you should install your winter tires, how to find the right winter tires for your Mazda, and how to determine if your winter tires are still in good condition.

What is the best time to install winter tires on my Mazda?

The best time to install winter tires on your Mazda vehicle is when the temperature outside regularly drops below 7°C. Cold weather has a negative impact on summer tires. The rubber compound hardens, which makes the tire bounce on the surface of the road, reducing grip and increasing braking distances.

A winter tire remains flexible in cold weather, providing better traction and overall safety. That means that late October or early November is the best time to think about winter tires for your Mazda. Mornings and evenings are frequently below the 7°C threshold. Moreover, you’ll want to have winter tires on your Mazda before the first snowfall. As mentioned previously, the mandatory deadline in Quebec for winter tires is December 1, but we recommend having winter tires on your Mazda before that.

How to know if I need new winter tires?

There are various factors to consider when determining if your current winter tires are still in good condition:

  • Tread depth: For your winter tires to be legal, they should have a tread depth of at least 1.6 mm. However, we would not recommend installing winter tires that have less than 4.8 mm of tread depth. Not only will they be less effective, but there’s a chance you won’t make it through the entire winter.
  • Overall performance: Reflect on last winter and how your winter tires performed. If they didn’t feel as effective in snow or on ice in February or March, they might need to be replaced.
  • Age and mileage: If your tires are more than four years old, they likely need to be replaced.

Measuring tread depth is fairly straightforward. You can use a specialized tool, or you can rely on the wear indicator on your winter tires.

How to choose the right winter tires for my Mazda?

Choosing the right winter tires for your Mazda involves considering your driving habits and where you drive. However, it’s also essential to pick the right winter tire for your specific Mazda model.

  • Where and how you drive: If you spend most of your time on the highway or in the city during winter, consider winter tires that excel on ice and are not overly noisy or uncomfortable on clear roads. On the other hand, if you frequently drive in rural areas or plan to go off-road or up to a ski hill, you’ll want tires that are optimized for snow.
  • Vehicle characteristics: A Mazda CX-90 has different winter tire needs compared to a Mazda MX-30. Depending on your specific Mazda model, some winter tires will outperform others.

Why should I get winter wheels with my winter tires?

Consider not only replacing your summer tires but also your summer wheels. Doing so will protect your summer wheels from potential damage from curbs and other hazards. Furthermore, this allows you to opt for a smaller wheel size, potentially saving money on your winter tires. Choosing 17 or 18-inch wheels over your Mazda’s standard 19-inch wheels can be a wise decision.

If you’re in the market for winter tires for your Mazda vehicle, visit our tire center today, and our experts will assist you in finding the perfect winter tires for your needs.

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