Kamloops tire shops noticing decline in winter tire sales

Sep 29, 2016 | 2:49 PM

KAMLOOPS — It’s not even October, but tire shops in Kamloops are already busy, taking the all-seasons off, and putting the winter tires on.

“That started early this week. People definitely starting to book in their appointments. We’ve been busy getting everyone’s winter tires started. It’s definitely coming,” says Alan Hay, owner of the Integra Tire on Notre Dame Drive. 

But the number of drivers buying true winter tires is down, by as much as 17%, according to Hay. It’s been the trend after the province last year implemented a new rule that only requires vehicles to have M+S tires — mud and snow — not needing a tire with the traditional ‘snowflake in a mountain’ logo.

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“Dollars. There’s no safety reason,” says Hay. “Winter tires have definitely proven over and over again to be safer in the winter tires compared to the M+S tires. That would be the only reason: money.”

Kal Tire has seen a decrease in winter tire sales as well, dealing with customers that are more confused about the rules than anything. 

“We’ve noticed a lot of skepticism on what it is exactly they need to purchase,” says Dan from Kal Tire. “A lot more questions on the make-up of the tire for sure.”

Some people’s decision to go with a more all-season M+S tires has been a little concerning for the RCMP. 

“This is all about your safety when you’re operating a motor vehicle in winter time,” says Sgt. Mike Pears from Central Interior Traffic Services. “Keep you and your family, and other motorists, safe because you don’t want to live with the fact that you lost control by having inadequate tires. 

Hay says the biggest drop in winter tire sales has been with truck owners, who are sticking with all-terrain. Those have the traditional ‘snowflake in a mountain’ logo, but aren’t nearly as effective as a good winter tire.

Tire shops, as well as the RCMP, are recommending for anyone who consistently drives the Coquihalla during winter to get proper winter tires.