It feels like we just wrote our blog post about the importance of having safe winter tires – and now in just a couple of weeks those of us who do not travel in the high mountain passes can begin switching back to summers! For those of us who do drive in the higher elevations, good winter tires and/or chains are required until April 30th.
When you’re getting ready to make the switch to summer tires, particularly if you’re putting on ones that have been used for a couple of years already, it’s important to make sure the tires are safe and in good condition.
Check the Tread
The tread on your tires is what gives them their grip and traction on the road. Most have an indicator to show when the tread has worn to the point where the tires need replacing. Check your tread at the beginning of each season before installing your tires to ensure they will be safe for driving.
Tire Pressure
Always make sure your tire pressure is at an appropriate level – ICBC says this is the single most important factor in tire safety! Low tire pressure can lead to improper and accelerated wear, and poor traction and handling. Ensure your tires are properly inflated when you put them on at the beginning of the season, but it’s also important to check the pressure on a regular basis. You can purchase a small pressure gauge, or stop by an air pump at most gas stations.
You can find the max inflation pressure on the inside of the tire, but note that this might differ from the recommended tire pressure from your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Storing your Winter Tires
Once your summer tires are installed, it’s important to properly store your winter tires to make sure they are ready to go next season. Store them somewhere cool, dark, and dry.
If you’re lacking adequate space for your tires, we can hold them for you! We offer seasonal storage for your tires – and bonus, they’ll already be here when you’re ready to change them! Ask your service technician for more information.
Now that your summer tires are on and your winters are properly stored, you’re ready to hit the road!
These are some of our favourite stops for adventures for all ages, whether it’s for March Break or a mid-summer road trip!
QB Gelato
The perfect treat for the Okanagan heat! QB Gelato prepares gelato and baked goods right here in Kelowna (and they have a pint subscription coming soon!)
Karat Chocolate
Karat Chocolate has been a staple for us since they opened in 2016, with a mission to create the best chocolates with the best ingredients (we can stand behind that!)
Scandia Mini Golf
Just down Highway 97N you’ll find Scandia Golf and Games – a family adventure park indoor and outdoor games and we love the mini golf course!
Big White and SilverStar Resorts
Just about an hour outside of town (in opposite directions) these resorts offer world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter and great hiking, mountain biking, and more in the summer. If you’re looking for an excuse to get out of town for the afternoon and explore some new trails, these are great stops for the whole family – including the 4-legged ones!
Graystokes Provincial Park
A little more than an hour from downtown Kelowna, between Central and North Okanagan, you’ll find Graystokes Provincial Park. This 12,000 hectare park is fairly secluded and features swamps, a lake, wooded areas, and wildlife!
There is no drinking water, so be sure to bring some water bottles if you’re heading out for a walk with the family!
We love being able to explore our local area, whether it’s over March Break, in the summer months, or during the cooler Okanagan fall. Make sure your tires are safe, then hit the road to your favourite places! We can’t wait to follow along your adventures, and be sure to let us know if you visit any of ours!
For more questions about safe winter driving or to upgrade your tires before the snow really starts to fall, call us at (250) 860-7444 or book an appointment today.