Buying new tires isn’t just replacing worn rubber—it’s about safety, performance, and value. Use this checklist before you buy so you pick the right set for your car and your driving in the GTA.
1) Confirm Your Tire Size
Find the correct size on the driver-door placard or in the owner’s manual (e.g., 225/65R17 102H). Match size, load index, and speed rating to the manufacturer’s spec. If changing wheel diameter, keep overall tire diameter close to stock.
2) Know the Main Tire Types
- All-Season: Balanced for spring/summer/fall; compounds harden in cold—not ideal for Canadian winters.
- Winter (Snow): Softer compounds + dense sipes for snow/ice; look for the 3PMSF symbol.
- All-Weather: Year-round option with 3PMSF winter certification—great for Toronto drivers who want one set.
- Performance/Summer: Sharper handling and braking in warm temps; shorter tread life; not for winter.
3) Match to Your Driving Conditions
- City: Prioritize wet-braking and durability.
- Highway/commuter: Low rolling resistance and higher treadwear for fuel economy and mileage.
- Snow & ice: Winter or all-weather tires with 3PMSF.
- Light off-road: All-terrain (A/T) for SUVs and trucks; accept some noise/ride trade-offs.
4) Read the Performance Ratings (UTQG)
- Treadwear: Relative life vs. a reference tire (e.g., 600 lasts longer than 400).
- Traction: Wet grip rating (AA, A, B, C).
- Temperature: Heat resistance at speed (A, B, C).
Note: Winter tires are often exempt from UTQG; rely on independent tests and the 3PMSF mark.
5) Check Tire Age (DOT)
The last four digits of the DOT code show week/year of manufacture (e.g., 1424 = week 14 of 2024). As a rule of thumb, avoid installing tires that are ~6+ years old even if the tread looks new.
6) Compare Brands & Warranties
- Premium lines usually stop shorter and stay quieter as they wear.
- Value brands can be excellent for city use; check warranty length and road-hazard options.
7) Budget for the Whole Job
Look beyond sticker price. Include mounting/balancing, new valves/TPMS service, alignment (if needed), recycling fees, and taxes. A slightly higher-priced tire with longer life or a better warranty can be the best value.
8) Professional Installation Matters
- Mount & balance: Prevents vibration and uneven wear.
- Alignment check: Protects your new tires from rapid edge wear.
- TPMS: Service or re-pair sensors during wheel swaps.
9) Plan for Seasonal Storage
If you run separate summer/winter sets, ask about tire storage. Clean, bag, and store in a cool, dark, dry place. Shops (like Migo Tire) can store sets for you to save space.
10) Beat Seasonal Rushes
Fall and spring changeovers book fast across the GTA. Reserve early so your size is available and you avoid lineups.
Quick Buying Checklist
- Correct size, load, speed rating verified
- Tire type matched to your weather and driving
- UTQG / independent test results reviewed
- DOT date checked
- Total installed price (with alignment/TPMS) confirmed
- Warranty and rotation schedule noted
Ready to Buy?
Migo Tire Corp. stocks all-season, all-weather, and winter tires in popular sizes for sedans, SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks. We offer competitive pricing, professional installation, and seasonal storage.
Phone: 647-821-6446
Website: migotire.com
Location: Toronto, ON
