[Zedbra]

Mine go on at the start of October as I travel up and down the province a lot.

[Teriyaki]

Just put the set on the family car, it was up for an oil change anyways.

[dinfung]

i have mine on since late Oct.

[TopsyCrett]

Last winter I had a set of Yokohama Ice Guard IG20 in 185/70/14 on my 1993 Accord. Since they were narrow (better for snow) they did exceptionally well. In very heavy snow, if I made a quick maneuver (eg. Yanking the wheel) Purging the wheel was not necessary as the rear end trailed very well. There was a second of delay whenever I did make a maneuver however, in regards to understeer. The tires always bit though.

The accord does not have ABS, and I felt confident driving down icy / snowed out roads on Westwood plateau every day.

Excellent in rainy conditions, no road noise at all, and they were awesome in dry weather. I was able to drive around Belcarra loop road in a spirited matter no problem.

However, they will only last about 4 seasons before reaching 20%. Approx 35,000 KMS on them and they are at 30%.

[coneZONE]

I've got mine on already since the beginning of October, General Altimax Arctic, pretty good in the rain.

I used to have some Winterclaw Arctic Claw Winter Txi... those are the worst tires I've had. A little bit of rain and I would slide into the intersection if I braked just a little harder, so I could only imagine how they would hold up in actual winter weather LOL

[B!tch]

Hoping for some advice.....

looking to replace tires on my 4runner. Has original Bridgestone Dueler with 50% tread but I hate them in wet weather.

Previous trucks I ran all season and had winter on rims but this year not wanting/can't get winters on rims.

Thinking of getting all weather tires. Read all 11 pages and the thread turned into a sh!t show when talk of all weather came about.

Here are the details:
-P265/70R17 - yes I run passenger on my 4 runner my days of off roading are in the past
-99.9% lower mainland driving
-have access to another vehicle if we were to have a massive snow fall
-can work from home and am close to skytrain if necessary.

Recommendations?

[fliptuner]

Duratrac or All Terrain T/A

The former are on sale at CT right now (last day to order). I got quoted $225 (+$5 disposal) +tax, for cash and carry, for 285/75/16's, just to give an idea. Not 100% sure but there might also be a $50 mail-in rebate if you buy 4.

Just checked 1010 and they want $284.

[godwin]

At the Auto Bild TUV test this year, they ranked

1. Continental WinterContact
2. Michelin Alpin 5
3. Goodyear UltraGrip 9
4. Dunlop Winter Sport
5. Pirelli Cinturrato Winter
6. Semperit (we don't have it here)
7. Nokian WR D4
8. Hankook Winter i*cept RS2
9. Bridgestone Blizzak LM001

Auto Express picked Goodyear UltraGrip too (but no comparison).

[roastpuff]

Duratrac or All Terrain T/A

The former are on sale at CT right now (last day to order). I got quoted $225 (+$5 disposal) +tax, for cash and carry, for 285/75/16's, just to give an idea. Not 100% sure but there might also be a $50 mail-in rebate if you buy 4.

Just checked 1010 and they want $284.

What fliptuner said. The K/O2 are more civilized on the road, but are more expensive I think. Been quite impressed by them on my Ram 1500.

They are $265 each at Costco in the size you mentioned with a $50 rebate when you buy 4.

If you don't off road much look at the Cooper Discoverer AT/W.

[SumAznGuy]

I love my Duratracs.
Last weekend, I parked in a grass field and when I came back, the field had turned to poo.
Wife wasn't impressed but I had a lot of fun pulling cars out of the field. I should have charged them for the recovery.
I bought my 265/65/17's last year from CT when they were on sale. Add in my CT dollars and it was a really good deal. Too bad I paid quite a bit to get them mounted.

[underscore]

You can't really go wrong with either Duratracs or KO2s, though Duratracs tend to be noisier. I had KOs prior to my current DTs and I've never been stuck with either.

[Gucci Mane]

^ this. You really can't go wrong with either. I've had my KO2's since they launched and they've been great. I honestly don't have a single complaint about them.

[EvoLove]

i just ordered a set of 235/45r18 and 245/45r18 nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 studded for m3, 1 week until they arrive in pg...
but i dont plan on driving till after new years so i should be fine. i wonder how they will do, in the weather up here. debating if i should buy cable chains also...

[dared3vil0]

Because i'm not going to have the WRX much longer, I ended up buying cheap ish snow tires- Firestone Winterforce. It might be the car, but they appear to be beasts in the snow. Literal blizzard out my window rn.

http://i738.photobucket.com/albums/xx27/dared3vil0/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_1448_zps0n32naqx.jpg

http://i738.photobucket.com/albums/xx27/dared3vil0/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_1454_zps1zujulxv.jpg

[Gucci Mane]

awesome pics taken from your potato!

[dared3vil0]

awesome pics taken from your potato!

It's the blowing snow, it won't let the camera focus.

[underscore]

It might be the car, but they appear to be beasts in the snow.

Try some panic braking, the car won't have an impact on that.

[dared3vil0]

Try some panic braking, the car won't have an impact on that.

Yeah I did, the tires are meh. Certainly better at accelerating than stopping. They're not bad, and are perfectly adequate, but aren't amazing. I think the car makes up for them though.

[mb_]

Just had my X-Ice3 installed, 2nd season with them! Just in time, Cypress just opened too.

[Noran]

Shoved the winter tires on to go have some fun up at Cypress. Pls note that winter tires only work when they're making contact with the ground. Thx to the random truck full of bros that were high asf that pulled me out of a snow bank :lol

[mb_]

Tfti

[subordinate]

Don't get Hankook Ipikes unless you're driving in actual snow.

I have them on my fall/winter Ho-Rolla beater, and they suck BBC in the rain/slush.

In the snow, they dig enough to get you going, and make sure you stop. But they're still extremely easy to get sliding during a snow-hoon. That being said, they're very composed in the snow, and I tried reaaaallly hard to spin out. I didn't.

For a bottom dollar snow tire... pretty good for a beater-spec car.

Thanks for that....I was seriously looking into Ipikes but since Vancouver often has slush, I'd avoid I guess.

[Zedbra]

Thanks for that....I was seriously looking into Ipikes but since Vancouver often has slush, I'd avoid I guess.

There are different models of iPikes; I have the iPikes RW11s - studded - on my truck and they have been nothing short of amazing in all weather conditions, especially snow and ice. Wet roads are no problem, either.

[immorality]

Don't get Hankook Ipikes unless you're driving in actual snow.

I have them on my fall/winter Ho-Rolla beater, and they suck BBC in the rain/slush.

In the snow, they dig enough to get you going, and make sure you stop. But they're still extremely easy to get sliding during a snow-hoon. That being said, they're very composed in the snow, and I tried reaaaallly hard to spin out. I didn't.

For a bottom dollar snow tire... pretty good for a beater-spec car.

I can recently second this. I bought a set, used on CL with rims, cheap, for my fancy Civic, and the dry and wet weather traction is pretty weak, they were impressive in yesterday's snow. I had no problem getting around, and was able to go up the hills around Royal Columbian hospital, stop and continue without issue.

I don't think I would buy them again unless I knew that there would be significant snow for a significant period of time. The amount of time where I'm driving in dry, and mostly wet here in the lower mainland would lead me to something with better traction and road manners.

So far the best tire that I have had personal experience with was the Pirelli Sottozero's.

[Hondaracer]

second winter with my K02's, was driving all over east van side streets, icey main streets etc. with an empty truck, almost no sliding or slipping whatsoever, very happy with the winter performance of these tires

[roastpuff]

second winter with my K02's, was driving all over east van side streets, icey main streets etc. with an empty truck, almost no sliding or slipping whatsoever, very happy with the winter performance of these tires

I've already taken them off trail into some crusty snow and they're OK there, not the greatest but pretty good all things considered.

[SumAznGuy]

My GY Duratracs performed flawlessly in the snow. Hastings was a gong show so I took the side roads that led up to Capitol hill where the snow was over 1 ft high. Left the center lock on for 4wd high and the truck never missed. Controlled braking was just as good.
Took the truck to some unplowed lots up on SFU and had no issues whatsoever.

[604CEFIRO]

I got Michelin Alpin PA4 for my 2016 Accord on the stock 19in wheels.

Drove the Coquihalla highway up to Kelowna on Monday night, ran into a snow storm lol. Drove back this afternoon with frozen roads. Flawless performance. Great control.

[rich80]

I'm planning on getting Nokian WRG3's for my 2009 Acura MDX tomorrow from Kal Tire. I screwed myself by leaving this to last minute but anyone have some feedback if that is going to be a good tire for all year around use? I'm looking for a tire that can still perform in maybe a foot or so of snow while still being avg/good for general use.

I'm hoping with the Acura SH-AWD system and the anticipated snow we are expecting that I should be good to go. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks

[underscore]

I'm hoping with the Acura SH-AWD system and the anticipated snow we are expecting that I should be good to go.

Don't rely on the AWD system, it won't help you when your braking.

[Teriyaki]

I'm planning on getting Nokian WRG3's for my 2009 Acura MDX tomorrow from Kal Tire. I screwed myself by leaving this to last minute but anyone have some feedback if that is going to be a good tire for all year around use? I'm looking for a tire that can still perform in maybe a foot or so of snow while still being avg/good for general use.

I'm hoping with the Acura SH-AWD system and the anticipated snow we are expecting that I should be good to go. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks

The AWD will get you going, won't help you stop. No experience with the WRG3's, but they're well-regarded from some of the research i've done in the past. I've since settled on the Conti DWS for years. Never ever let me down, I'd say its the perfect tire for BC driving. Can't recommend them enough. Theres just something about pushing full throttle on a left turn in an absolute downpour and have it turn like its on rails. Oh, and it handled this weeks ice/snow just fine.

[godwin]

You are looking for a unicorn. Winter tires works best if you choose a skinnier setup, so all the down force is concentrated on a small area on each tire, to melt snow or crack ice. However that doesn't translate well to non winter driving. Also you can increase the aspect ratio of the tire to smooth out some of the ice bump. However rest of the season you want pretty much the opposite of all that.

I would suggest get 2 different setup. Look at your door jam at the air pressure chart, look for the smallest tire setup your MDX allows and go with that for winter and a proper all seasons for the rest of the season.

I'm planning on getting Nokian WRG3's for my 2009 Acura MDX tomorrow from Kal Tire. I screwed myself by leaving this to last minute but anyone have some feedback if that is going to be a good tire for all year around use? I'm looking for a tire that can still perform in maybe a foot or so of snow while still being avg/good for general use.

I'm hoping with the Acura SH-AWD system and the anticipated snow we are expecting that I should be good to go. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks

[godwin]

For those looking for deals..

Get Canadian Tire gift cards from Rexall which are 10% off, then wait for their tires go for buy 3 get 1 free and 10x points (though I think that's over for the season)+ rebates. Apparently they don't need the tires to be in stock for the 10x (or 20x points events) just need to put in the order.

[Acura604]

quite happy with the blizzak DM-V1s. absolutely buried the RDX in snow last night and had NO problems getting out. Got cocky a bit and yes, there was some slippage but minimal at best.

http://i.imgur.com/YPJa6H0.jpg

[SSM_DC5]

For those looking for deals..

Get Canadian Tire gift cards from Rexall which are 10% off, then wait for their tires go for buy 3 get 1 free and 10x points (though I think that's over for the season)+ rebates. Apparently they don't need the tires to be in stock for the 10x (or 20x points events) just need to put in the order.

Was just at rexall station square. They said 10% off was for black Friday. And they're all sold out. What location you find it at?

[PJ]

noobish question...

Does anyone minus size? Or do you guys go with the original stock sizing of your wheels/tires? Is the benefit of minus sizing quite noticeable?

[mb_]

noobish question...

Does anyone minus size? Or do you guys go with the original stock sizing of your wheels/tires? Is the benefit of minus sizing quite noticeable?

I minus'd

Went from 215/45/17 summers/all-season to 205/50/17. I wouldn't be able to tell if it has noticeable advantage since I've never driven my car with OEM sized winter tires

[BrokenEuro]

I'm planning on getting Nokian WRG3's for my 2009 Acura MDX tomorrow from Kal Tire. I screwed myself by leaving this to last minute but anyone have some feedback if that is going to be a good tire for all year around use? I'm looking for a tire that can still perform in maybe a foot or so of snow while still being avg/good for general use.

I'm hoping with the Acura SH-AWD system and the anticipated snow we are expecting that I should be good to go. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks

Others have mentioned braking and I agree. AWD system helps you get out but won't assist much in stopping without proper tires. The WRG3 are decent tires but I have not tested them myself.

I hope you have an appointment with Kal Tire, otherwise expect to wait 2 days for your vehicle.

[syee]

noobish question...

Does anyone minus size? Or do you guys go with the original stock sizing of your wheels/tires? Is the benefit of minus sizing quite noticeable?

I went minus sized as well. From 215/50/17 to 205/60/16. I don't notice too much of a difference other than a softer ride than stock because of the higher sidewall. Side benefit is that 16" tires are a bit cheaper than 17". :P

Only thing to watch for if you minus size is clearance for your brakes. The TSX I drive doesn't exactly have huge brakes, but the 16" wheels barely clear them.

[underscore]

If you have a narrower tire it'll cut through snow better, but you'll have less grip on ice. So it depends on whether you drive through snow or on ice/compact snow more. Just don't forget to increase the sidewall accordingly so you end up with the same final diameter, it's a little counterproductive to lower your car for winter :lol

[hud 91gt]

Nah man. Get rid of the aerodynamic lift. Lowering basically sucks you to the ground and increases your traction by at least double. Look at the P1.


Sorry, I forgot this thread was for grownups only :(

[belka]

The WRG3 are decent tires but I have not tested them myself.

I hope you have an appointment with Kal Tire, otherwise expect to wait 2 days for your vehicle.

I run WRG3s exclusively all year round on my 98 Forester here in NE Alberta where temps and conditions are much more hostile in the winter. I have zero issues with braking or traction on hills in snow or ice. I've never been stuck even in very deep snow. With a newer AWD system you'll have no issues.

[optiblue]

Many of my friends run the WrG3 all year round. They're an all weather tire that Kal tire really pushes for and it does the job quite well. They do tend to wear out faster and if they're worn down, you should replace them. Best time to buy them is in the fall so that they'll be fresh for winter!

[Jmac]

Many of my friends run the WrG3 all year round. They're an all weather tire that Kal tire really pushes for and it does the job quite well. They do tend to wear out faster and if they're worn down, you should replace them. Best time to buy them is in the fall so that they'll be fresh for winter!
We had WRG2s on both of our vehicles, both developed sidewall problems before the (pro-rated) warranty expired.

Fiance went with the WRG3s, I went Blizzaks.

Performance wise, probably not as good as the Blizzaks on snow/ice, but surprisingly good. Just leery of tires where two sets both develop problems before warranty expires.

[BillyBishop]

Really happy with my General Altimax Arctics so far. They've been phenomenal during the heavy rains we've had and now the slush and snow

[unit]

https://www.kaltire.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Kal-Tire-Tire-Comparison-Info-graphic.jpg

i keep hearing that all seasons don't perform well below 7 degrees or whatever. i'd like to see an actual comparison test between all seasons and winters in like 1 degree weather in dry pavement to see whether or not it's all marketing

[underscore]

I'm pretty sure there are a few comparison tests around the net.

[thumper]

not sure if this has been posted earlier...

https://youtu.be/6MuUA7fjt50

https://youtu.be/0JfEcVZvQEA

https://youtu.be/FTRL_iF8LHs

[dachinesedude]

i have the duratracs on the 4runner, they are very grippy in deep fresh snow, but a bit slippery on compacted snow when turning and braking

winter tire > all terrain > everything else

[bcuzracecarz]

There is still a g35, a 335i, and a genesis coupe all stuck on my street in obscure angles and positions don't know if hard parking or photoshoot, will report back

[chinese_driver]

+1 for WRG3

[godwin]

Find a big enough parking lot and practice your winter maneuver skills (not hooning).

Oh yeah time to max out those tire psi.

In Vancouver, the parking lot at Rupert and 1st should be relatively snow laden. It also have a gentle slope so you can practice both up hill and down hill.. (just watch out for stumps left behind by the city). It would be helpful to do a walk around first to see where the curbs / stumps are. For people really worried, go as a pair of cars properly equipped with tow cable. It is not rocket science, you just need the experience.

Try the car with ESC off first, then ESC on to see the car's dynamic envelope.

You should get a feel on sliding, sudden and steady braking. Throttle modulation needed to get the car in motion. Practice makes perfect.

The key to good winter driving is to have just enough momentum and plenty of space so you can move without braking or extra gas. Also how to react when the car's momentum suddenly swings. That takes practice and the limit is different for each model (like it or not automatics are easier). Winter tires, make that sweet spot, more consistent and easier to find.

[MrPhreak]

I run studded Hakkapeliitta's

Great tires for winter

[roastpuff]

So this past weekend I found the on-road winter limits for the KO2, there were some very hairy moments driving from Pemberton to Squamish on semi-plowed, slick packed snow with black ice mixed in. In 4WD/Auto 4WD mode it was fine, as the power was split between both front and rear axles, but in 2WD with a LSD the truck liked to change lanes on its own with too much power applied. If I wasn't so lazy and on my Blizzak DM-V2s I am sure that the drive would have been less stressful.

I also need to add more sandbags to the rear...

[underscore]

Has anyone run General Grabbers through a proper winter before? I just sold my Cherokee :( and my new Jeep has a set of those with ok tread left.

[Lomac]

I run studded Hakkapeliitta on my Q5

Best... Winter... Tire... Ever...

/thread

7 or 8?

I'm starting to discover the limitations of my studded Hakka 8's. Fantastic on compact snow but slush is definitely one of it's weaknesses.

[MrPhreak]

7 or 8?

I'm starting to discover the limitations of my studded Hakka 8's. Fantastic on compact snow but slush is definitely one of it's weaknesses.

I've had them on since the 2013/2014 winter... I think 7's? I run them at least 6 months of the year, so they have around 25K on them.... still 70~80% tread left. Pretty good considering the majority of it is on dry roads.

They have a lot of road noise, and sound like you are popping bubble wrap in parkades... but aside from that, they have been nothing short of amazing tires for winter.

I was running Michellen Ice-X on my last DD, and they were really good... but the Hakka's are just on a whole other level.

Has anyone run General Grabbers through a proper winter before? I just sold my Cherokee :( and my new Jeep has a set of those with ok tread left.

They will be good in deep snow or even slush, but most MT's and aggressive AT's are basically garbage on ice. As soon as stuff freezes up, you are better off with a tamer AT or all-season

[thumper]

https://youtu.be/tMhIbGtkTZw

[fliptuner]

PSA

DuraTrac's are 25% off at CT starting Friday, plus $40 mail in rebate on a set.

[rich80]

Update on the Nokian WRG3 All Weather Tires:

I've used them for just under a week now in about a foot of snow, ice, slush, compacted snow and zero issues with these tires. No slippage or braking issues. Happy so far with these tires especially in winter conditions.

[- kT]

picked up some hankook i pikes in 175/70/13 for the winter beater. skinny chicken leg tires, but ran them for over a week now and have yet to run into any issues. admittedly the roads have been half decent on my commutes thus far, but I'm gonna take her up to cypress this weekend, which will be the real test. only part I'm a little iffy about is the fact that the car has no TCS or ABS - just gonna have to be a bit more controlled with the throttle and the brake

[underscore]

only part I'm a little iffy about is the fact that the car has no TCS or ABS - just gonna have to be a bit more controlled with the throttle and the brake

People have survived without TCS or ABS for decades, just don't drive like a looney and you'll be fine. It'll give you a chance to improve your driving skills.

[westopher]

I usually turn my ASC off in the snow. The way it cuts throttle is more of a hinderence than a help when slipping.

[Jmac]

I didn't have either for the first 15 years of my driving life. Practice your threshold braking.

[underscore]

I've just started driving the my first vehicle with ABS and traction control, the ABS isn't too bad but the traction control is really annoying in the snow. I'd much rather handle things smoothly than have it cutting in and making things all jerky.

[J-Chow]

Picked up a used set of Bridgestone Blizzaks LM60 for the Mustang.

World of a difference from summers to winter tires.

But still managed to kick the end a little if I apply too much boost :lol

[Edison_Chen]

Will places still have snow tires left over?
I'm wondering if they are any deals on them later so I can use them next year.

[FN-2199]

only part I'm a little iffy about is the fact that the car has no TCS or ABS - just gonna have to be a bit more controlled with the throttle and the brake

I've yet to own a vehicle with either, and I feel like I'm a better driver because of it.

Go have some fun!

[Skittlez160]

So this past weekend I found the on-road winter limits for the KO2, there were some very hairy moments driving from Pemberton to Squamish on semi-plowed, slick packed snow with black ice mixed in. In 4WD/Auto 4WD mode it was fine, as the power was split between both front and rear axles, but in 2WD with a LSD the truck liked to change lanes on its own with too much power applied. If I wasn't so lazy and on my Blizzak DM-V2s I am sure that the drive would have been less stressful.

I also need to add more sandbags to the rear...

Do you find the KO2s aren't that great in POOLED water either? I had a couple sketchy moments on the I-5 months ago during heavy rain.

[roastpuff]

Do you find the KO2s aren't that great in POOLED water either? I had a couple sketchy moments on the I-5 months ago during heavy rain.

So far in pooled water I've not had any stability issues, but I did notice that the KO2s slowed down noticeably - i.e. feels like I suddenly had drag/engine braking as the tires tried to clear the water. Depends on how deep it is I guess as I haven't hit anything that's super deep at speed. I've forded a few small creeks etc. but those are all done at walking speed.

[godwin]

There are usually end of the season sale. It really depends on the tire size you use... you have a better chance of getting them from the States as they have larger warehouses etc.

Will places still have snow tires left over?
I'm wondering if they are any deals on them later so I can use them next year.

[Skittlez160]

So far in pooled water I've not had any stability issues, but I did notice that the KO2s slowed down noticeably - i.e. feels like I suddenly had drag/engine braking as the tires tried to clear the water. Depends on how deep it is I guess as I haven't hit anything that's super deep at speed. I've forded a few small creeks etc. but those are all done at walking speed.



Yeah that's well described as to what they do.

Yes I was taking the pooled water at around 110-130 km/h. It got pretty hairy at some points haha. I basically had to use the far right lane and drop my speed down to 100ish km/h. Even changing lanes through the pooled water became a bit difficult.

[whitev70r]

Update on the Nokian WRG3 All Weather Tires:

I've used them for just under a week now in about a foot of snow, ice, slush, compacted snow and zero issues with these tires. No slippage or braking issues. Happy so far with these tires especially in winter conditions.

Hi, can you shed some light on your vehicle, is it a FWD or AWD. Trying to give some insight to a friend. On a Lexus IS250 AWD, thinking of putting all weather tires like the Nokian WRG3 on instead of dedicated snows.

[godwin]

Canadian Tire is having 20x Canadian Tire money + $70 Michelin rebate (everywhere) for X Ice 2.. Any winter tire is better than no winter tire at this stage.

So basically you get 8% back in CT money.

[roastpuff]

Canadian Tire is having 20x Canadian Tire money + $70 Michelin rebate (everywhere) for X Ice 2.. Any winter tire is better than no winter tire at this stage.

So basically you get 8% back in CT money.

Costco has $70 off on Michelin too - all Michelins, and the installation is cheaper at $15/tire flat. I'd take Costco tire technicians over Cambodian Tire's techs any day.

[alex.w *//]

Does $15 tire and mount deals still exist ?

If so where?

[meme405]

Does $15 tire and mount deals still exist ?

If so where?

Costco was the last place to do it for $15. Don't know if they still do, although I'd imagine right now with how busy most tire places are, that you're not gonna have much luck.

I think $25/tire, is the new rate. Seems to be pretty standard at most tire places.

[Liquid_o2]

I didn't get a chance to update regarding my Nokian Hakka's earlier this week.

Things were great for the first few snowfalls earlier in December, but they finally met their match on Monday night. This is when the heavy snowfall turned into a wet rain/snow and everything was starting to melt. My car was street parked facing uphill on a small side street. I had gotten out of the spot on previous occasions, but with 4-6 inches of slushy wet snow on top of a thin layer of compacted snow-ice, they couldn't get any grip whatsoever. I ended up at a 45 degree angle trying to get into the driving lane of the street. Spun my tires for a good 5 minutes, even with kitty litter thrown on. A nice guy came by and helped me back into the parking spot.

So it seems that the Hakkas are good on dry/wet snow, but once you add ice and slush and a hill, best to stay home!

[SkunkWorks]

Costco was $15 mount and balance when le gf bought her Blizzaks there in October.

Still exists. And to add to the thread, the WS80 is unstoppable on the Coq and with the past few Vancouver dumps we've been having. Very confidence inspiring.

[yray]

any tips on snowbergs in wheel wells?

[EndLeSS8]

I'm running 225/40/18 front and 255/40/18 for my rear tires

I'm looking to get Blizzak WS80 tires.

What sizes do you guys recommend for front and rear? I checked Bridgestone's website, but it's very hard to get a full size list of the WS80

Thanks in advance

[IMASA]

Their website has a list of sizes.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 | Bridgestone Tires (http://www.bridgestonetire.ca/tire/blizzak-ws80)

Just have to hit the show tire details



TIRE SIZE SERVICE DESC LOAD RANGE SPEED RATING SIDEWALL STYLING ARTICLE NUMBER APPR. RIM WIDTH OVERALL TIRE DIAMETER TREAD DEPTH TIRE WEIGHT WARRANTY KILOMETRES WARRANTY KM
175/65R15 84H H BW 013754 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 16 0 0
185/55R15 82H H BW 013788 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 16 0 0
185/55R16 87T XL T BW 013805 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 18 0 0
185/60R15 84T T BW 013618 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 16 0 0
185/65R15 88T T BW 013074 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 17 0 0
195/55R16 87H H BW 013448 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 19 0 0
195/60R16 89H H BW 013550 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 18 0 0
195/65R15 91H H BW 013040 5.5-7.0 25.0 11 18 0 0
205/40R17 84H XL H BW 013516 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 19 0 0
205/50R17 93H XL H BW 013278 0.0-0.0 0.0 11 23 0 0
205/55R16 91H H BW 013006 5.5-7.5 24.9 11 20 0 0
205/60R16 92H H BW 013057 5.5-7.5 25.7 11 20 0 0
205/65R15 94T T BW 013533 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 20 0 0
205/65R16 95T T BW 013737 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 21 0 0
215/45R17 91T XL T BW 013295 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 22 0 0
215/50R17 95H XL H BW 013227 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 24 0 0
215/55R16 97H XL H BW 013601 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 24 0 0
215/55R17 94H H BW 013108 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 23 0 0
215/55R18 95T T BW 013499 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 24 0 0
215/60R16 95H H BW 013023 6.0-7.5 26.1 12 22 0 0
215/60R17 96T T BW 013261 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 23 0 0
215/65R16 98H H BW 013584 6.0-7.5 27.0 12 23 0 0
215/65R17 99T T BW 013312 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 24 0 0
215/70R15 98T T BW 013567 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 23 0 0
225/40R18 92H XL H BW 013363 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 23 0 0
225/45R17 91H H BW 013125 7.0-8.5 25.0 12 22 0 0
225/45R18 95H XL H BW 013686 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 25 0 0
225/50R17 94H H BW 013091 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 24 0 0
225/50R18 95T T BW 013465 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 25 0 0
225/55R17 97H H BW 013159 6.0-8.0 26.8 12 25 0 0
225/55R18 98H H BW 013703 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 26 0 0
225/60R16 98H H BW 013822 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 23 0 0
225/60R17 99H H BW 013193 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 25 0 0
225/60R18 100H H BW 013380 6.0-8.0 28.62 12 26 0 0
225/65R16 100T T BW 013414 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 24 0 0
225/65R17 102H H BW 013244 6.0-8.0 28.5 12 26 0 0
235/40R18 95H XL H BW 013720 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 23 0 0
235/45R17 97H XL H BW 013210 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 25 0 0
235/50R18 101H XL H BW 013431 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 29 0 0
235/55R17 99H H BW 013142 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 26 0 0
235/60R17 102T T BW 013669 6.5-8.5 28.1 12 27 0 0
235/65R16 103T T BW 013176 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 26 0 0
235/65R17 104H H BW 013635 6.5-8.5 29.1 12 27 0 0
245/40R18 97H XL H BW 013397 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 24 0 0
245/45R17 99H XL H BW 013652 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 26 0 0
245/50R18 104H XL H BW 013771 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 30 0 0
255/35R18 90H H BW 013482 0.0-0.0 0.0 12 22 0 0

[godwin]

I would go for 215/55R18 95T T BW for all 4s.

However not all sizes are stocked equally.

I'm running 225/40/18 front and 255/40/18 for my rear tires

I'm looking to get Blizzak WS80 tires.

What sizes do you guys recommend for front and rear? I checked Bridgestone's website, but it's very hard to get a full size list of the WS80

Thanks in advance

[HonestTea]

What would you guys pick? Michelin - X-Ice Xi3 or Bridgestone - Blizzak WS80? The WS80 is about $10 cheaper per tire.

Assuming both manufacturers have $70 rebates.

[godwin]

I think either one is fine. I would worry about whether you can get either one in stock for the size you want. They are both latest generation of tires from competing manufacturers.. so in terms of compound and tread patterns they represent the latest generation.

What would you guys pick? Michelin - X-Ice Xi3 or Bridgestone - Blizzak WS80? The WS80 is about $10 cheaper per tire.

Assuming both manufacturers have $70 rebates.

[supafamous]

What would you guys pick? Michelin - X-Ice Xi3 or Bridgestone - Blizzak WS80? The WS80 is about $10 cheaper per tire.

Assuming both manufacturers have $70 rebates.

Can't go wrong with either - I have the WS80s on my TSX and they've been a real champ in these conditions.

Car & Driver ran a comparo last year and preferred the X-Ice: Winter-Tire Test: Six Top Brands Tested, Compared ? Feature ? Car and Driver (http://www.caranddriver.com/features/winter-tire-test-six-top-brands-tested-compared-feature)

[underscore]

any tips on snowbergs in wheel wells?

Other than to clear them out regularly so you can turn?

[bokch0y]

What would you guys pick? Michelin - X-Ice Xi3 or Bridgestone - Blizzak WS80? The WS80 is about $10 cheaper per tire.

Assuming both manufacturers have $70 rebates.

I'd personally go with the WS80's, I've had them on previous cars and they are great tires. My son has them on his BB6 and they've been good to him thus far. We're in Calgary right now and they get a great workout in our weather conditions.

[wingies]

They are both pretty damn good, Ive used both but I would give a slight edge to XI3. I have them on my BMW and never got stuck once, barely any slipping when braking. Im still using the same tires since we had that snowstorm in 09

[saveth]

Here is the main reason I would get the Michelin's over the Bridgestone. The Bridgestone once worn down to 50% are basically useless as a winter tire since all the winter compound has worn out. I've owned a set of blizzacks and they are amazing for the first half of its tread life.

[roastpuff]

Here is the main reason I would get the Michelin's over the Bridgestone. The Bridgestone once worn down to 50% are basically useless as a winter tire since all the winter compound has worn out. I've owned a set of blizzacks and they are amazing for the first half of its tread life.

That might be true of older Blizzak tires but I don't think the newer tires have that issue. The WS80 should be good down to 4/32nds but like all snow tires they lose effectiveness when they hit 6/32nds simply because of lack of tread depth.

[godwin]

All winter tires do that.. the winter compounds are only the first few 1/16 then it is all season compound, it is the balance between tread agressiveness, compount and also mileage.

Here is the main reason I would get the Michelin's over the Bridgestone. The Bridgestone once worn down to 50% are basically useless as a winter tire since all the winter compound has worn out. I've owned a set of blizzacks and they are amazing for the first half of its tread life.

[underscore]

Last time I checked the X Ice was topping all the comparison charts. Generally speaking though, anything in the top 10 of those lists is gonna be good.

[alex.w *//]

Does the tire gradually get worse overtime?

For example a winter tire that has 10/32 ... but it's been sitting since 2011

[godwin]

Yes also the compounds advance over time.

The Science of Tire Aging (http://tires.about.com/od/Tire_Safety_Maintenance/a/The-Science-Of-Tire-Aging.htm)

Does the tire gradually get worse overtime?

For example a winter tire that has 10/32 ... but it's been sitting since 2011

[!LittleDragon]

Apart from the recent ice, the DWS-06 handled this winter just fine. I don't think anything really helps with ice apart from tire studs.

I was thinking of winter tires but I wanted to go through one winter with the DWS to see how they do.

Also, if I were to get winters for next year.... what's recommended for a 275/35/19? I can't find many results and does going down a size in width matter at that point?

[godwin]

Is the DWS new? usually M+S tires are fine for their first season.. once the tread wears down is when trouble starts. Remember new tires starts around 10/32, 5/32 some places won't pass you on safety inspections.. 2 is absolute minimum.

I would go either skinner, higher aspect ratio or just get 18 or lower if your car takes it.




Also, if I were to get winters for next year.... what's recommended for a 275/35/19? I can't find many results and does going down a size in width matter at that point?

[LuHua]

Is the DWS new? usually M+S tires are fine for their first season.. once the tread wears down is when trouble starts. Remember new tires starts around 10/32, 5/32 some places won't pass you on safety inspections.. 2 is absolute minimum.

I would go either skinner, higher aspect ratio or just get 18 or lower if your car takes it.

DWS-06 is a new refresh, the tires are probably a year old, tops

[supafamous]

DWS-06 is a new refresh, the tires are probably a year old, tops

I have the DWS (originals) and they are kinda useless after the first season if the snow is more than an inch thick. I've half way done with them and the rubber is now 5 years old and even the wet weather traction is pretty toast.

[CorneringArtist]

I have the DWS (originals) and they are kinda useless after the first season if the snow is more than an inch thick. I've half way done with them and the rubber is now 5 years old and even the wet weather traction is pretty toast.

The DWS has lettering on the tread that tells its effectiveness based on the conditions. Once the "S" or "W" layer wears out, they lose their traction on snow and wet weather respectively.

[sonick]

Do stores still have snow tires in stock? Wondering if it is worth getting snow tires for this season, or better off toughing it out and getting it next fall before next winter?

[supafamous]

The DWS has lettering on the tread that tells its effectiveness based on the conditions. Once the "S" or "W" layer wears out, they lose their traction on snow and wet weather respectively.

Well, that's what they say but all 3 letters still show up on my tires but the performance is gone - it's just a dry tire for me now. I can live with it in the wet for 1 more season but after that it's a new set for me regardless of wear (about 60-65K on it so far)

[supafamous]

Do stores still have snow tires in stock? Wondering if it is worth getting snow tires for this season, or better off toughing it out and getting it next fall before next winter?

Stock is pretty low from what I'm hearing from co-workers who have been calling around but I'm hearing the forecast for the rest of winter is going to be pretty crap for another 6-8 weeks (Farmer's Almanac) so you may want to go track something down.

[!LittleDragon]

Try these. Probably easier to put on than a tire sock and take up less space in your trunk. Good for getting out of a tight spot.

https://www.amazon.com/Zip-Grip-Go-Cleated-Traction/dp/B009M6TXLU

[k3mps]

Try these. Probably easier to put on than a tire sock and take up less space in your trunk. Good for getting out of a tight spot.

https://www.amazon.com/Zip-Grip-Go-Cleated-Traction/dp/B009M6TXLU

The Cops Don't Like Your Zip-Tie Tire Chains (http://jalopnik.com/the-cops-dont-like-your-zip-tie-tire-chains-1790536519)

[thumper]

the reviews on the amazon page range from not good to scary unsafe...

[Lomac]

Try these. Probably easier to put on than a tire sock and take up less space in your trunk. Good for getting out of a tight spot.

https://www.amazon.com/Zip-Grip-Go-Cleated-Traction/dp/B009M6TXLU

:heckno:

Decent chains are pretty cheap and don't take up a lot of space in the trunk.

[godwin]

Honestly tire chains don't take up much space,, but a pain if you drive alone and need to put them on and take them off.

Personally I use Spikes spider. Especially on the Coq with 18 wheelers barrelling past you. Much easier I have a set from 14 years ago.. still working well.

Remember you only need to use chains etc for at most 1km.. then you have to pull over remove each one of them.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVQF930hLLk&feature=youtu.be

Try these. Probably easier to put on than a tire sock and take up less space in your trunk. Good for getting out of a tight spot.

https://www.amazon.com/Zip-Grip-Go-Cleated-Traction/dp/B009M6TXLU

[underscore]

Try these. Probably easier to put on than a tire sock and take up less space in your trunk. Good for getting out of a tight spot.

https://www.amazon.com/Zip-Grip-Go-Cleated-Traction/dp/B009M6TXLU

Except those are one time use, or for only slightly more you could have real chains which are reusable.

[!LittleDragon]

I didn't mean use them in place of proper chains... lol.. I meant keep a pack in the car for emergency only. For when you're in a bind and got stuck. Slap it on and off you go. When you're unstuck, cut them off or drive til they fall off. Don't use them where chains are required, that's just stupid...

[EndLeSS8]

Where do you guys recommend buying tires?

I'm looking to the Blizzak WS80 in 225/40/18

Tire Rack doesn't show that size for sale

Thanks

[smoothie.]

I've been a big fan of costco since getting my last set cheaper than through a shop in the states.

keep in mind the Blizzaks are ultra soft for ice grip, mine wore twice as fast as the General Arctics I have now. (with a slight loss on ice traction)

[syee]

Where do you guys recommend buying tires?

I'm looking to the Blizzak WS80 in 225/40/18

Tire Rack doesn't show that size for sale

Thanks

I got my set through Discount Tire Direct in the states (in their eBay store). Maybe give that a shot?

[IMASA]

With the low CDN dollar, it probably isn't worth buying from the US unless there is a blow out/close out deal on winter tires. (unlikely during the winter).

In the lower mainland, you are probably at the mercy of whoever has stock in the brand/size you need and can fit you in this week. Costco is a good bet if they are offering a rebate. They have a huge selection and it's first come first served.

Like everything else, if you leave it to the last minute, you gonna have to pay up.
Best time and place to buy is craigslist during the summer. I bought my set of WS80's in 225/45/18 for $300, only used 1 season. Lots of ppl selling off their winter tires for a car they just sold.

[syee]

With the low CDN dollar, it probably isn't worth buying from the US unless there is a blow out/close out deal on winter tires. (unlikely during the winter).

In the lower mainland, you are probably at the mercy of whoever has stock in the brand/size you need and can fit you in this week. Costco is a good bet if they are offering a rebate. They have a huge selection and it's first come first served.

Like everything else, if you leave it to the last minute, you gonna have to pay up.
Best time and place to buy is craigslist during the summer. I bought my set of WS80's in 225/45/18 for $300, only used 1 season. Lots of ppl selling off their winter tires for a car they just sold.

True, the pricing may not be better, but you certainly have access to a larger inventory. A quick search of US Costco says they have it in stock to ship to store.

[sonick]

I've been a big fan of costco since getting my last set cheaper than through a shop in the states.

keep in mind the Blizzaks are ultra soft for ice grip, mine wore twice as fast as the General Arctics I have now. (with a slight loss on ice traction)

Thanks for the heads up on the Blizzaks, was gonna get a set of those.

Just over $30/tire more for Xi3... Wonder what's more worth it in the long run.

[Indy]

if you're lucky like my dad you can roll in to costco first thing on a weekday morning, have the Xi3's in your size in stock and roll out in an hour or so...

[TOPEC]

i know this isnt a FS thread, but just helping out. i have a set of Toyo Garit KX in 225/45/17, plenty of tread left, mounted on a set of mazda 3 wheels, someone can throw me an offer and take them as they're just collecting dust. 1 rim is slightly bent so highway speeds will have a wobble, city driving is fine.

[SkunkWorks]

For us, it ended up being cheaper to get the Blizzaks locally - 205/55/16 at that.

You can order online from Costco and have it shipped to the store where they'll call you upon arrival to schedule an appointment.

[syee]

Some good deals can be found in the US. You just have to be on the lookout. I bought a set of 4 Blizzak WS80's back in October (205/60/16) through Discount Tire Direct's eBay store for $368 USD shipped. They also had a $70 USD rebate which dropped it down to $298. You're not going to find anything locally that comes remotely close to that, even with the exchange and taxes coming across the border factored in.

[pb.kidz]

Am I able to bring my own tires for Costco to mount and balance? Do you need to make an appointment? I assume you will need to show a membership

[roastpuff]

Am I able to bring my own tires for Costco to mount and balance? Do you need to make an appointment? I assume you will need to show a membership

Yes no yes.

[AstulzerRZD]

Thanks for the heads up on the Blizzaks, was gonna get a set of those.

Just over $30/tire more for Xi3... Wonder what's more worth it in the long run.

The Xice3 have the only winter tire treadlife warranty 60k kms? but don't perform as well as the Blizzaks. APA, Tire Rack, and Consumer Reports support this claim.

Depending on your normal tires (if you have summers the rest of the time), it may be worth getting the XIce3 and run them for an extra month or two before switching over.

[dyan]

Has anyone run nokian before?

[meme405]

The Xice3 have the only winter tire treadlife warranty 60k kms? but don't perform as well as the Blizzaks. APA, Tire Rack, and Consumer Reports support this claim.

Depending on your normal tires (if you have summers the rest of the time), it may be worth getting the XIce3 and run them for an extra month or two before switching over.

I was using Blizzak LM60's on my FX, great winter tires for those with performance cars, or for guys who are still running semi low profiles during winter.

I have Xice3's on my Nissan Puke, and they have been really good thus far. They aren't quite as aggressive as the Blizzaks, meaning they break traction sooner. But when they do lose traction it's predictable, and usually from me doing something stupid like switching into the snow covered lane on the highway to pass someone. :whistle:

In terms of getting out of a buried parking stall, they have been almost as good as the blizzaks, I've gotten my car buried with 12" plus of snow at cypress twice this year, and while it took a little bit of rocking the thing, I was able to get it out of the stalls without really any fear of being stuck.

[roastpuff]

Has anyone run nokian before?

I've run Hakka 7 studded and Hakka R2 tires from Nokian. Absolutely monstrous grip on snow/ice. Okay on dry roads, not incredible.

[sonick]

Getting a set of General Altimax Arctic ordered in from OKTire. Will have to wait a bit than if I went with the Blizzaks or the more expensive XI3 from Costco, but I had them on my BMW E30 and they were awesome on there, so should be a good balance of value and durability.

[CL typeS]

Can you guys help me out? I currently run 225/50/18 stock on my car, all 4 corners. I know that generally for winter driving the skinnier and taller is better.

Would it be ok to run 225/60/18? or even 225/55/18?

[godwin]

Talk to MG1 refer to this post https://www.revscene.net/forums/630604-snow-220.html#post8814658

The problem I have with Nokian is it is a Kal Tire exclusive in BC.

Has anyone run nokian before?

[godwin]

It is hard to know unless we know your suspension setup.. but it is rather simple. Go to your car, measure the side all, hub to sidewall distance etc. Then look up the height of the tire height you desire, if it fits then it will work.

Just not availability of different sizes tires are different.. so you might not get what you want AT the price you want.

Can you guys help me out? I currently run 225/50/18 stock on my car, all 4 corners. I know that generally for winter driving the skinnier and taller is better.

Would it be ok to run 225/60/18? or even 225/55/18?

[whitev70r]

Can you guys help me out? I currently run 225/50/18 stock on my car, all 4 corners. I know that generally for winter driving the skinnier and taller is better.

Would it be ok to run 225/60/18? or even 225/55/18?

Not quite understanding ... a 225 is a 225 ... skinnier would be 215 or 205. Then most people would go down to a 17" wheel. Here is a tire size calculator, you can punch in a variety of sizes. The trick is to get it as close to factory as possible. No more than 5% difference.
Tire Size Calculator - Tire & Wheel Plus Sizing (http://www.1010tires.com/Tools/Tire-Size-Calculator)
Based on your stock tire ... something like this would work - 205/60/17

[LuHua]

Can you guys help me out? I currently run 225/50/18 stock on my car, all 4 corners. I know that generally for winter driving the skinnier and taller is better.

Would it be ok to run 225/60/18? or even 225/55/18?

It's skinnier, and taller profile, as in bigger sidewall. The idea's to go from say, 225/50/18 to something like 205/60/17, so you go on 17" rims. The taller sidewall is more forgiving on bumps and potholes, and the thinner tire helps to cut through snow. (205/60/17 keeps your tire diameter within about a 1% difference so your speedo stays accurate)

[Shorn]

So, I know this goes against what the popular opinion in this thread is, but honestly this year I've ran all season Continental DWS 06s, and they're definitely very driveable this winter (all Lower Mainland). I had no problems whatsoever, uphills, unplowed. Also this tire DESTROYS wet/heavy rain conditions. However, on pure ice it definitely slides a bit more than I would like, and also this is a FWD car. Can't speak about treadwear yet but from what I've heard this tire also lasts for an exceptionally long time as well.

So in conclusion I would recommend this tire to anyone who wants to drive on one set of tires all year exclusively in the lower mainland in a FWD/AWD vehicle.. if RWD i would definitely get a dedicated set of winter tires (or if you're gonna go up mountains of course).

[pb.kidz]

If anyone is looking to get their tire mounted and balanced, I got a guy named Greg off Craigslist who does it in his garage at your convenience for cheap. Did a good job mounting my 15" steelies at 8pm at night, he's located in surrey by patullo bridge. $60 cash... I called around and everyshop was booked till next week and was getting quoted $120+

https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/rds/aos/5907283070.html

[PJ]

Running Michelin X Ice xi3 on my Forester. Feels like there's no snow at all :lawl:

But honestly, winter tires should be a no-brainer.

When I was driving with my all seasons it felt fine. Never got stuck, never spun out, maybe it's Subaru's superior awd system, but I'm pretty sure I would've done fine without the winter tires. Having said that, ~$1000 is a small price to pay for that extra amount of safety, whether you think it's redundant or not. You only use them a few months out of the year, so they'll last quite some time. Even if you put safety aside, just a little slip on a side street and scraping a car is gonna cost you a deductible that you could've used towards your winter tires.

[kiwee]

Can anyone recommend me some winter tires for Mitsubishi Lancer GTS 2010 - front wheel drive (215/45R18). I haven't driven it since it snowed (have all season tires from Michelin - pilot). If I was to order now...I don't think I'll be able to drive to a shop and get it changed. A friend of mine suggested that I should buy snow tires with metal wheel, not really a car savvy person haha. Any suggestions and options would be nice.

Thank you!

[R. Mutt]

Just purchased some 255/35/18 Blizzaks for the evo online through Costco....the reviews seem to be good, especially on mixed snow and ice. I'll report back soon if the crap weather holds out.

[jcmaz]

Can anyone recommend me some winter tires for Mitsubishi Lancer GTS 2010 - front wheel drive (215/45R18). I haven't driven it since it snowed (have all season tires from Michelin - pilot). If I was to order now...I don't think I'll be able to drive to a shop and get it changed. A friend of mine suggested that I should buy snow tires with metal wheel, not really a car savvy person haha. Any suggestions and options would be nice.

Thank you!

You can use 205/60/16 winter tires. Base model Lancers use that size of tire with 16 inch rims. I suggest you to browse Craigslist to see if there are any alloy wheels from other base model Lancers. Unfortunately you can't use other 5x114.3 wheels from other OEM manufacturers except Mazda and Hyundai (to my knowledge) since they have smaller centerbore than Mitsubishi's (67.1mm fyi).

[PJ]

^ If you're going to minus size (go a size down for winter rims/tires), just make sure it fits over the brakes. A quick call to Kal Tire will let you know if your car is able to minus size. My car wasn't, so I had to go with the original stock size.

[EndLeSS8]

Put the Michelin X-Ice on the IS350 today

First time ever used snow tires, amazing. Worth every dollar

[IMASA]

Yup, guys who say all seasons are good enough...wait til you try good winter tires. Makes driving in a the snow almost a non-event.

I have winters on both my speed3 and CRV. Blizzak WS80's on the speed3 and Blizzak DM-V1's on the CRV.

4WD, winter tires and ground clearance make driving the CRV so easy in conditions like the last few days.
The speed3 still slips side to side when accelerating, with traction control kicking in. When turning left at an intersection, you can't just punch it and expect to pull out quickly, unlike the CRV.

I can't imagine how it would feel to drive something like a WRX/STi with winter tires out in weather like this. Must be awesome.

[320icar]

Yeah dude. My foST is fairly unruly on snows compared to my fiancé' focus wagon on those hakkapalita's. On the entire drive to work my underbody/chassis was scraping on the snow. It hurts me more than it hurts the car I'm sure.. But still..

[yray]

I have sottozeros on my roadster and they aren't that great when it comes to accelerating but make all the difference in stopping. Once I am up to speed, the traction is awesome. Traction control works hard to get the car off the line.

I expect blizzaks or xice to be even better on the car.

[Klondike]

Yup, guys who say all seasons are good enough...wait til you try good winter tires. Makes driving in a the snow almost a non-event.


I have the Cooper Weather-Master ST/2. Driving in the snow is so much fun! I feel like I'm unstoppable when I drive through unplowed side streets and alleys.

[Oshiguru]

Just installed Michelin Xi3 on the speed3. Neighbours porsche suv and x5 stuck going up our hill, my car made it up. Anyone have long-term experience with these tires? It says winter traction compound or something up to 60k kms.
I have about 200km on my speed3 set and ~20,000km on my cx-5 set. CX-5 drives as good as new but I'm curious if anyone with 50k+ kms on it can chime in.

[AstulzerRZD]

Just installed Michelin Xi3 on the speed3. Neighbours porsche suv and x5 stuck going up our hill, my car made it up. Anyone have long-term experience with these tires? It says winter traction compound or something up to 60k kms.
I have about 200km on my speed3 set and ~20,000km on my cx-5 set. CX-5 drives as good as new but I'm curious if anyone with 50k+ kms on it can chime in.

What you actually have with the XIce 3 is a 60k kms treadlife warranty if you only run it between certain months of the year - exact months escape my mind but they're on Michelin's site.
The first something like 55% of the thread is softer. Even when they're worn, still better than all seasons is my experience.

[bcrdukes]

Also note that the Porsche SUV (assuming it's a Cayenne) and the BMW X5 chew through tires a lot faster, especially if they haven't kept up with routine maintenance

[Oshiguru]

What you actually have with the XIce 3 is a 60k kms treadlife warranty if you only run it between certain months of the year - exact months escape my mind but they're on Michelin's site.
The first something like 55% of the thread is softer. Even when they're worn, still better than all seasons is my experience.

Found it at the very end of the fine print. In case anyone else is wondering they classify winter as Sept 1 - April 30 and require proof of documentation to maintain warranty.

[SkunkWorks]

Hmm, proof of documentation? I presume that would mean shop invoices @ Sept and April for tire mounting/dismounting?

Not sure how else to prove it if they're your second set of wheels and you swap them on and off in your own garage.

[ilvtofu]

I have sottozeros on my roadster and they aren't that great when it comes to accelerating but make all the difference in stopping. Once I am up to speed, the traction is awesome. Traction control works hard to get the car off the line.

I expect blizzaks or xice to be even better on the car.

I have a similar experience with the Sottozeros, getting going can be tough (open diff/fwd) but cornering/braking are excellent. What really impresses me is the dry and wet grip since I throw these on in October, there's not really any performance loss IMO compared to your average UHPAS or factory summer tire. I have autocrossed on them as well in both wet/dry and I'm pretty certain they perform as well as the stock Bridgestone RE050A summers for street and autox.

[StanleyR]

So, I know this goes against what the popular opinion in this thread is, but honestly this year I've ran all season Continental DWS 06s, and they're definitely very driveable this winter (all Lower Mainland). I had no problems whatsoever, uphills, unplowed. Also this tire DESTROYS wet/heavy rain conditions. However, on pure ice it definitely slides a bit more than I would like, and also this is a FWD car. Can't speak about treadwear yet but from what I've heard this tire also lasts for an exceptionally long time as well.

So in conclusion I would recommend this tire to anyone who wants to drive on one set of tires all year exclusively in the lower mainland in a FWD/AWD vehicle.. if RWD i would definitely get a dedicated set of winter tires (or if you're gonna go up mountains of course).

I;m running the predecessor to that tire the DWS's and they still have the S, but its starting to wear away. I know I'll need to replace them by next winter.

Overall they are ok, but I don't have the time and space to be swapping tires and wheels every fall.

[yray]

Decided to take my sottozeros onto a cul de sac thats on a slope thats unplowed and with 6-8" of snow. Car go stuck, tried to turn, ended up stuck sideways on a slope. :lawl: had to straighten the car and back up the hill.

[AstulzerRZD]

I;m running the predecessor to that tire the DWS's and they still have the S, but its starting to wear away. I know I'll need to replace them by next winter.

Overall they are ok, but I don't have the time and space to be swapping tires and wheels every fall.

Consider getting Nokian WRG3 from Kaltire - they're an all *weather* tire with the snowflake rating that you can run year round. It's got a 60k kms treadlife warranty.

[TopsyCrett]

Absolutely loving my Hankook Dynapro AT/M All-terrain tires. Have yet to get stuck on on any road. I have pulled out a few trucks such as a Ford Expedition (on Nitto All-terrains) and a BMW X5 on Bridgestone all seasons.

[inv4zn]

I've driven through all the snowstorms this winter on X-ICE3's and they've been pretty damn great.

Car is a FWD econobox so no special tires needed, but these have been outstanding. For a run-of-the-mill passenger car, would recommend in a heartbeat.

[roastpuff]

Absolutely loving my Hankook Dynapro AT/M All-terrain tires. Have yet to get stuck on on any road. I have pulled out a few trucks such as a Ford Expedition (on Nitto All-terrains) and a BMW X5 on Bridgestone all seasons.

Are they winter-rated? I was looking at them vs BFG KO2 but went with KO2 due to winter rating.

Also, I eventually gave in and put on my Blizzaks - I drive the Sea to Sky almost weekly, and past Whistler the highway isn't as wide or well-maintained. Some icy sections got a little interesting on the KO2s, and the Blizzaks have that 15-20% edge on them especially on ice that I feel it is worth it for the amount of driving I do.

[swfk]

I;m running the predecessor to that tire the DWS's and they still have the S, but its starting to wear away. I know I'll need to replace them by next winter.

Overall they are ok, but I don't have the time and space to be swapping tires and wheels every fall.

A simple and gimmicky way of telling is on the tread you see "D" "W" and "S". When the "S" is worn off then the tread is only good for dry and wet, not snow.

On a related note, I recently bought a set of DWS06 and it's been amazing in the snow. No slip at all when everyone is skating around. I have always been an advocate telling others to run winters but DWS06 really surprised me.

[320icar]

^^ top shelf all seasons have come a REALLY long way in recent years. Can hold their own in a gvrd winter (maybe not an okanogan winter) but you can also run them at super-stock autocross and put down a respectable time

[Arvi604]

A simple and gimmicky way of telling is on the tread you see "D" "W" and "S". When the "S" is worn off then the tread is only good for dry and wet, not snow.

On a related note, I recently bought a set of DWS06 and it's been amazing in the snow. No slip at all when everyone is skating around. I have always been an advocate telling others to run winters but DWS06 really surprised me.

I cross shopped the DWS06 with Pilot Sport As 3+ and ended up getting the latter. Cost me a bit more in the end but I was surprised at how well they handle in some of the conditions we've had recently. These new gen AS's are pretty incredible. That being said, still noticed a difference when driving around the wife's CR-V with Xi 2's on. That thing was unstoppable lol.

[swfk]

^ You'd be unstoppable if you were on summers :troll:

The DWS06 compared to Extreme Winter Contact, having owned both, the DWS06 seems to understeer slightly more and that's it. Stops just as good in slush or fresh powder.

[EndLeSS8]

I cross shopped the DWS06 with Pilot Sport As 3+ and ended up getting the latter. Cost me a bit more in the end but I was surprised at how well they handle in some of the conditions we've had recently. These new gen AS's are pretty incredible. That being said, still noticed a difference when driving around the wife's CR-V with Xi 2's on. That thing was unstoppable lol.

Do you drive a FWD car or RWD?

I'm asking because before putting on my snow tires, I had the AS3+ on my IS350. During the first snowfall time, they were BARELY okay on slush, but when the 2nd snow hit, I couldn't even get out of my alley ways. I switched over to Michelin X-Ice3 before this 3rd snow.

On my previous IS300, I had the original DWS, and it still seemed like they were better than the AS3+ in snow.
The AS3+ IMO are much better than the DWS in dry, but even in heavy rain, I find they can lose traction

[dared3vil0]

The AS3 is going to be far inferior in the winter to a DWS, and the latter is true in the summer.

[Presto]

I've driven through all the snowstorms this winter on X-ICE3's and they've been pretty damn great.

Car is a FWD econobox so no special tires needed, but these have been outstanding. For a run-of-the-mill passenger car, would recommend in a heartbeat.

I'm on my 5th season with these X-ice3's, and they still make my car feel invincible in snow.

[roastpuff]

I cross shopped the DWS06 with Pilot Sport As 3+ and ended up getting the latter. Cost me a bit more in the end but I was surprised at how well they handle in some of the conditions we've had recently. These new gen AS's are pretty incredible. That being said, still noticed a difference when driving around the wife's CR-V with Xi 2's on. That thing was unstoppable lol.

^ You'd be unstoppable if you were on summers :troll:

On a serious note, the DWS06 compared to Extreme Winter Contact, having owned both, the DWS06 seems to understeer slightly more and that's it. Stops just as good in slush or fresh powder.

Do you drive a FWD car or RWD?

I'm asking because before putting on my snow tires, I had the AS3+ on my IS350. During the first snowfall time, they were BARELY okay on slush, but when the 2nd snow hit, I couldn't even get out of my alley ways. I switched over to Michelin X-Ice3 before this 3rd snow.

On my previous IS300, I had the original DWS, and it still seemed like they were better than the AS3+ in snow.
The AS3+ IMO are much better than the DWS in dry, but even in heavy rain, I find they can lose traction

The issue with these A/S tires is that their snow performance falls off pretty quickly past the first season or two. Whereas with a snow tire the 4th season is good. My Dunlop Wintersport 3Ds lasted me 5 seasons, and they were down all the way to 5/32nds when I got rid of them. Could still get around fine.

[Skittlez160]

That being said, still noticed a difference when driving around the wife's CR-V with Xi 2's on. That thing was unstoppable lol.

I completely agree. The only thing that could potentially stop it, is running into a snow bank and high-siding the vehicle completely. But I'm sure she knows better than that lol.

[Skittlez160]

Also, I eventually gave in and put on my Blizzaks - I drive the Sea to Sky almost weekly, and past Whistler the highway isn't as wide or well-maintained. Some icy sections got a little interesting on the KO2s, and the Blizzaks have that 15-20% edge on them especially on ice that I feel it is worth it for the amount of driving I do.

Wow that bad eh? I know you mentioned before that it got pretty sketchy, but I didn't think it would come to switching out completely. But I know what you mean, I experienced something similar during our last snowfall with compacted ice chunks at hwy speeds. It was pretty discomforting trying to maintain flow of traffic and my SUV felt unstable.

[SkunkWorks]

Gotta say, I've been extremely impressed with the Blizzak WS80's on le gf's wagon. On the way back from the Coquihalla they were extremely stable at 120 on the skating rink of a left lane.

And for the most recent snowfall they've been amazing on both hard packed ice and snow. Was able to comfortably take all the alleys and side roads over the past few days to avoid the gongshow on the main arterials. I can't even make handbrake turns because they have so much grip :(

Since the X-ice 3 is the same, can't go wrong with either on a family car.

[roastpuff]

Wow that bad eh? I know you mentioned before that it got pretty sketchy, but I didn't think it would come to switching out completely. But I know what you mean, I experienced something similar during our last snowfall with compacted ice chunks at hwy speeds. It was pretty discomforting trying to maintain flow of traffic and my SUV felt unstable.
I already had the Blizzaks before I got the KO2 anyways, the stock Goodyear Wranglers that came with the Ram were not great and not winter rated so I needed winter tires. I just got the KO2 this summer and it has been a solid tire. Very good. It's actually better than the DM-V2 in deeper snow because of the more open tread, but the lack of siping (it has enough but nowhere near the Blizzak/X-Ice/etc) hurts the ice traction.

The KO2s are a great all-rounder tire, but I want something better in icy conditions due to the amount of highway travel that I do. The Whistler to Pemberton stretch is where the S2S narrows down and becomes more curvy, more like the old sections used to be. There's less plowing and sanding around that area too, so the road conditions can be more sketchy.

[Arvi604]

Do you drive a FWD car or RWD?

I'm asking because before putting on my snow tires, I had the AS3+ on my IS350. During the first snowfall time, they were BARELY okay on slush, but when the 2nd snow hit, I couldn't even get out of my alley ways. I switched over to Michelin X-Ice3 before this 3rd snow.

On my previous IS300, I had the original DWS, and it still seemed like they were better than the AS3+ in snow.
The AS3+ IMO are much better than the DWS in dry, but even in heavy rain, I find they can lose traction

I had Xdrive, so I guess that's cheating a bit. Regardless, the grip seemed to be good enough. I never had issues with any Hills or anything. Just had to brake early.

[supafamous]

Gotta say, I've been extremely impressed with the Blizzak WS80's on le gf's wagon. On the way back from the Coquihalla they were extremely stable at 120 on the skating rink of a left lane.

And for the most recent snowfall they've been amazing on both hard packed ice and snow. Was able to comfortably take all the alleys and side roads over the past few days to avoid the gongshow on the main arterials. I can't even make handbrake turns because they have so much grip :(

Since the X-ice 3 is the same, can't go wrong with either on a family car.

I've had the WS80s on my TSX for 2 seasons and they have been champs all winter. Even able to drive up ice rink side streets at a decent clip.

I dream of driving something like a Grand Cherokee with QuadraDrive with a set of X-Ices or Blizzaks. I'd be the Donald Trump of snow drivers in that nothing could stop me.

[Timpo]

https://cdn.rideapart.com/wp-content/uploads/2014%2F12%2F0.jpg
https://helmetorheels.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/2011-custom-spiked-tire.jpg

[underscore]

I dream of driving something like a Grand Cherokee with QuadraDrive with a set of X-Ices or Blizzaks. I'd be the Donald Trump of snow drivers in that nothing could stop me.

I've got an 07 Grand Cherokee with QuadraDrive II and it's fantastic, even with my ~1/2 tread General Grabbers. My friend has the same vehicle but with Hankook RW11's and it's masterful in the snow.

[godwin]

All NEW all seasons tires do well in the snow for the first season, then the performance drops off rather quickly.

If you don't have the space / time to swap tires consider getting your tires from Canadian Tire.. they offer an option to store the tires for you. My condo dwelling friends relies on them. It is pretty reasonable.

I had Xdrive, so I guess that's cheating a bit. Regardless, the grip seemed to be good enough. I never had issues with any Hills or anything. Just had to brake early.

The thing is you are talking about 2 different aspects.. grip and drive has more to do with the drive train.. brake has to do more with the tires. All winter tires unless they are new and the latest compounds will need to brake early.

[mos_skeeto]

All NEW all seasons tires do well in the snow for the first season, then the performance drops off rather quickly.

Disagree. Not all tires are equal.

I have 5000 km on my Bridgestone Potenza's and they're awful in the snow. I would not recomend it for anyone if snow exceeds an inch. M+S rated too.

Tire Rack:
Winter/Snow Performance 3.1 - Poor
4.0 Light Snow Traction
2.8 Deep Snow Traction
2.5 Ice Traction

grip and drive has more to do with the drive train

I'd take better tires on 2 wheel drive versus poor tires with 4wd/awd. When I was up in Prince George at -30 I was driving a Wrangler around in RWD 95% of the time and felt perfectly safe. Studded tires ftw.

[fliptuner]

PSA - 25% off Duratracs at CT this week

[syee]

Discount Tire Direct's eBay store also has $100 off $450. It's USD so you'll have to do the math to see it's worth it with the exchange rate being as bad as it is, but might be good if they have something you can't find locally. I got a pretty good deal on some WS80's last time they had this offer. (though it was $100 off $400 last time)

Might be a better deal if you can stack it with a manufacturer rebate.

[SSM_DC5]

Time to start looking for new winters. Come across some sales or rebates for winters or A/S? Share them with us.

[thumper]

has there been any more official news on whether they will be making winter tires mandatory?

[roastpuff]

Time to start looking for new winters. Come across some sales or rebates for winters or A/S? Share them with us.

Keep an eye on Craiglist for guys trying to unload their tires to clear garage space or have sold their cars etc.

I found a set of 215/60R16 Blizzak WS80's for $350. 90% tread. :awwyeah:

[!LittleDragon]

I need to dump my mine as well, no longer have my 2.0T Sonata

[roastpuff]

I need to dump my mine as well, no longer have my 2.0T Sonata

What size? Still looking for a set for my parents' Civic.

[underscore]

I'm on the hunt for some BFG KO2's, ideally 255/75R17. If anyone hears about a sale anywhere please share, so far the best price I've found was Costco.

[H.Specter]

Got a pair of Firestone Winterforce tires from CL - only $225!

It's $240 if I include the new BMW centre caps I ordered from ebay.
http://i.imgur.com/IhEw1Pv.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/D929JMx.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/RVBs8my.jpg

[320icar]

Just remember those are almost 10 years old.
Might do snow well but not grip ice as good as new winter tires

[!LittleDragon]

What size? Still looking for a set for my parents' Civic.

Might be a tad tall for a Civic, they're 215/55/17. The bolt pattern and offset are for a Sonata, not sure exactly what it is. Also has the large Hyundai/Toyota center bore.

Still undecided if I need winter tires on the 5.0 Genesis, I did just fine with DWS06 this past winter. Drove up the hills in New West with 6" of snow without any problems. The only problem I had was trying to go down Queens but I don't think any combo of car/tires can stop on that steep a hill.

[H.Specter]

Just remember those are almost 10 years old.
Might do snow well but not grip ice as good as new winter tires

I figure there isn't much traction on ice regardless anyway...

[roastpuff]

Might be a tad tall for a Civic, they're 215/55/17. The bolt pattern and offset are for a Sonata, not sure exactly what it is. Also has the large Hyundai/Toyota center bore.

Still undecided if I need winter tires on the 5.0 Genesis, I did just fine with DWS06 this past winter. Drove up the hills in New West with 6" of snow without any problems. The only problem I had was trying to go down Queens but I don't think any combo of car/tires can stop on that steep a hill.

That might actually work for my Accord... and I can pass my tires to the Civic. What tires are the ones you're selling?

[JordanLee]

I'm on the hunt for some BFG KO2's, ideally 255/75R17. If anyone hears about a sale anywhere please share, so far the best price I've found was Costco.

I got my 285/75R16 KO2s from 4Wheelparts for like $1000 all in with pick up in Langley last black friday. They have deals all the time to save the tax and you qualify for like a $50 GC from them and combine that with the $50 from BFG Canada and you usually get it down cheaper than Costco.

I just checked, Costco is 900 +tax. 4WP is $1013 no tax minus the $50 GC and perhaps dealer specific $50 mail in rebate.

Then ON TOP of that you can use the 6% eBates deal right now to save another $54.

[sir rotary]

I have two sets of snow tires from my previous civics.. they won't fit my truck..

One set is two Michelin all seasons 50% and two Nokia winters 95% on 15" black steelies.. 4x100 and 4x114 also comes with a third matching snow tire with 95%.

Another set of 15" 4 hankook with 95% no rims

I'll have to double check size and brand but pretty sure it's 195 50 15

Anyone interested? Shoot me an offer! I was going to keep them till winter but willing to let em go now.

[dared3vil0]

I have two sets of snow tires from my previous civics.. they won't fit my truck..

:seriously:

No kidding lol

[underscore]

I got my 285/75R16 KO2s from 4Wheelparts for like $1000 all in with pick up in Langley last black friday. They have deals all the time to save the tax and you qualify for like a $50 GC from them and combine that with the $50 from BFG Canada and you usually get it down cheaper than Costco.

I just checked, Costco is 900 +tax. 4WP is $1013 no tax minus the $50 GC and perhaps dealer specific $50 mail in rebate.

Then ON TOP of that you can use the 6% eBates deal right now to save another $54.

Where are you finding the no tax with 4WP? I looked at the MIR and it's US only so I'm not sure why they list it. For my size it's $1013 - $50 GC = $963 plus taxes and install and such. Costco is $900 even plus the same stuff. PMC is $868 with free shipping and you only have to pay GST since they're in Quebec, so overall they're $116 cheaper than Costco. I'm not sure if $116 is enough of a difference to not have them backed by Costco though.

[!LittleDragon]

That might actually work for my Accord... and I can pass my tires to the Civic. What tires are the ones you're selling?

They're Kumho iZen KW22's. Not the best but leaps and bounds better than the performance tires the Sonata 2.0T came with. About 40% tread left. $250 if I decide to sell them.

The only thing holding me back from selling is what car I'm buying for my parents. If I get them a Hyundai Ioniq then I might keep them if they don't rub. I'm waiting for them to release the plug in hybrid version next month so it may not be until October/November until I know.

[JordanLee]

Where are you finding the no tax with 4WP? I looked at the MIR and it's US only so I'm not sure why they list it. For my size it's $1013 - $50 GC = $963 plus taxes and install and such. Costco is $900 even plus the same stuff. PMC is $868 with free shipping and you only have to pay GST since they're in Quebec, so overall they're $116 cheaper than Costco. I'm not sure if $116 is enough of a difference to not have them backed by Costco though.

Its usually no tax on large items like this in sets of 4. 4WP has some weird thing as theyre based out of the states. Same thing when I bought Bilstein 5100s from them. When I added your set to cart and it brought me to the PayPal page it didnt charge tax. When you pick up they only charge the tire fee in person and thats it. Pretty easy. When I did it I got the $50 BFG Canadian rebate pretty quick and got a $70 4WP gift card months later.

[k3mps]

Has anyone looked at the Hercules Avalanche R-G2? They're ranked consistently high in tests.

Cheap winter tires that are actually re-labled Hakkpaliita R tires manufactured by Nokian for Hercules.

I'm thinking they may have the same tread pattern and mold..but different / cheaper materials? Worth taking a shot?

[Badhobz]

Im trying to get rid of my brother in law's snow tires from last season. more than 80% tread left on them, but he got rid of his civic and the shit is just sitting in my garage right now.

$400 dollars including the steelies OBO. all balanced and ready to go for a 05 civic.

185/65/15 TempraWinterquest tires, made by Cooper tires

https://s26.postimg.org/drd30msvd/IMG_20161206_153946.jpg
https://s26.postimg.org/6qtollgh5/IMG_20161206_154017.jpg

[6o4__boi]

^ too bad they're not 16's /17's

I'm looking for one for my wife's HR-V
Pain in the ass to find used ones of either 215/55/17 or 205/65/16...so if i don't find anything, guess i'll have to grab them new

When does Costco usually have their winter tires/sales? Do they sell steelies as well?

[Badhobz]

my problem is this lame bolt pattern. most of my toyota's / VW are all 5 bolt. But these steelies are only good for 4 bolt. I dont mind it being smaller, i was going to go down a size anyways.

[gilly]

costco currently has Bridgestone - Blizzak WS80 for $70 off with purchase of all 4 tires.
Valid now to October 8

[SSM_DC5]

^appears to be all Bridgestone tires, not just Blizzak that get the $70 off. (in case anyone was looking for all seasons)

[donot521]

Will all seasons tires be fine if the car is all wheels drive?

[roastpuff]

Will all seasons tires be fine if the car is all wheels drive?

Good for starting not for turning or stopping.

[Jmac]

Will all seasons tires be fine if the car is all wheels drive?
All wheel drive doesn't help you brake or turn. You should still get winter tires if you plan to drive in winter conditions (snow, ice, slush, etc.)

[whitev70r]

Will all seasons tires be fine if the car is all wheels drive?

No, not if this winter is even 50% like last year.

[underscore]

I agree with what the other guys said, AWD and 4WD do nothing for stopping or turning. It's the AWD cars and 4WD trucks with crappy tires on that I see in the ditch the most going to the ski hill.

[H.Specter]

Will all seasons tires be fine if the car is all wheels drive?



can you drive a car with your knees instead of your hands? yes.

is it smart to do so? no.

[donot521]

Thanks guys, winter tires then!
Where is the place with reasonable price if I want to look for wheels + tires combo? 1010tires?

[Rallydrv]

dont jump the gun, if u live in vanc. wait to see what kinda winter we'll have. (weather system)

2008/ 2017 is the only time i've needed winter time in the last 10 years.

[Jmac]

dont jump the gun, if u live in vanc. wait to see what kinda winter we'll have. (weather system)

2008/ 2017 is the only time i've needed winter time in the last 10 years.
Present outlook from the NOAA is slightly above normal temperatures and average precipitation this winter, but that doesn't mean we won't get cold snaps.

If you have alternate options during winter conditions, then you don't need winter tires, but if you plan to drive during them, it's reckless to use all-seasons, IMO.

[underscore]

PMCTire and Costco are my go-to for tires, because PMC doesn't have a location in BC you don't pay PST and they usually have free shipping.

[JqC]

Anybody run all-weather tires during winter? My car did pretty well with Nokian WRG3 and AWD last winter.
Looking into a set of these for the wife's SUV, or Toyo Celsius all-weather tires.

[SSM_DC5]

I ran WRG3's year round, they got the job done. Last winter, I didn't have grip issues, but I did have chassis clearance issues. This year I'm probably going to get dedicated winters (Michelin X-ice)

[Liquid_o2]

Considering whether I need new winter tires this year. I have Nokian hakkapeliitta's, however they are 8 years old now. Always garage stored so they look mint and no cracking, but 2 of the tires have almost rubbed off the snowflake indicator inside the tire tread. It is still there, but very faint. Driving on my Continental summer tires really isn't an option, so wondering if it is worth it to throw down $800 for a new set of Hakkas or X-Ice?

[Jmac]

GF has WRG3s and we both had WRG2s until last winter. Winter performance was solid, but treadlife and road noise left something to be desired (in both cases, we had tire failures after less than 100k). That's why I switched to a dedicated winter.

[SSM_DC5]

GF has WRG3s and we both had WRG2s until last winter. Winter performance was solid, but treadlife and road noise left something to be desired (in both cases, we had tire failures after less than 100k). That's why I switched to a dedicated winter.

Speaking of tire failures.... Mine failed and kal tire is going to warranty them. My nokians had a crack all the way around on the side wall, inner side, so i discovered it when I had the wheels off. Kal tire employee assessed it and said the crack goes all the way to the cords.:ahwow:

[chinese_driver]

i need some advice, so my stock e46 coupe setup is

F: 225/45/17x7.5
R: 245/40/17x8.5

i got a free set of pirelli sottozeros off an e90, which are 235/45/17 square. I only that know i should be running more narrow for winter but being free, of course ima take em. Can anyone weigh in on some pros (if any) and cons of running this size on my car?

also +1 for WRG3, was a beast in the snow this past winter on my jeep

[underscore]

I only that know i should be running more narrow for winter but being free, of course ima take em. Can anyone weigh in on some pros (if any) and cons of running this size on my car?

Narrower only helps with cutting down through deeper snow. Regardless 1cm isn't doing to make much difference.

[UnknownJinX]

Speaking of WRG3...

I had them on 08 Accord Coupe V6. The all-season ones on the car got me stuck in my own garage when it first snowed a teenee bit last November, so I decided to get something better. Someone on the Accord forum suggested me the WRG3, so I ordered a set.

They handled the Feburary snow very well. The car just plowed through snow like it was nothing while my friend's Mustang can't keep itself straight(he had summer tires on; how he didn't crash will remain a mystery). Even saw a BMW stuck in a pole while the owner, a Chinese kid talks to the insurance person. The only time I was stuck was on a very slushy and relatively steep hill, but my car was able to handle most hills other cars were struggling to climb.

The downside is summer performance, but then again, it's a FWD car with a relatively powerful V6. These AW tires focus more on winter performance as well, which means having fun with these tires in summer may not be the best idea.

The tires that come with my RX-8... I will give them one last chance when I put them on soon. They are AS tires with S+M symbol on them, but I constantly had wheelspins on turns(with a rotary). If they are not satisfying, I will shop for some dedicated winter tires.

[Acura604]

picking up some Firestone Winterforce for the 2016 Civic. The RDX already has a dedicated set of blizzaks which proved amazing last year.

The 'weather wizards' are already saying that this winter might be similar to last year so i'm not sure if they're getting paid behind the scenes from tire shops. lol.

any reviews on the firestone winterforce?

[thumper]

the farmer's almanac was almost correct for last winter:

Called it: Old Farmer's Almanac predicted winter storms - NEWS 1130 (http://www.news1130.com/2017/02/14/called-old-farmers-almanac-predicted-winter-storms/)

this is what they are saying for the upcoming one:

https://www.almanac.com/weather/longrange/region/ca/5

ANNUAL WEATHER SUMMARY: NOVEMBER 2017 TO OCTOBER 2018
Winter will be slightly warmer than normal, with below-normal precipitation and snowfall. The coldest periods will be in early and late December, early and late January, and mid-February, with the snowiest periods in early and late December. April and May will have above-normal temperatures, with near- to below-normal precipitation. Summer will be slightly cooler and drier than normal, with the hottest periods in early to mid-June, mid- to late July, and early August. September and October will be rainier than normal, with near-normal temperatures.

no need to hoard salt?

[roastpuff]

picking up some Firestone Winterforce for the 2016 Civic. The RDX already has a dedicated set of blizzaks which proved amazing last year.

The 'weather wizards' are already saying that this winter might be similar to last year so i'm not sure if they're getting paid behind the scenes from tire shops. lol.

any reviews on the firestone winterforce?

Old school winter tires - OK in deep snow, not great on ice unless studded, average in slush/packed snow and meh on wet/dry roads.

Same level as Goodyear Nordic, iPike RSV etc.

[dared3vil0]

^ They now have Firestone winterforce 2's, which are more of a modern design

https://www.firestonetire.com/content/dam/bridgestone/consumer/fst/tire-images/winterforce-2/FST_Winterforce2_60.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/original

[underscore]

no need to hoard salt?

Worst case, you have salt, and need to use it. Best case, you don't need salt, and you can keep it for next year.

[subordinate]

Fyi, Costco has 80 off Pirelli Winter Ice, great deal I think, good reviews. thoughts?

Actually, WS80s are even cheaper. hmmm

[meme405]

dont jump the gun, if u live in vanc. wait to see what kinda winter we'll have. (weather system)

2008/ 2017 is the only time i've needed winter time in the last 10 years.

Lol This is exactly the attitude that had everyone get butt fucked by winter in vancouver this past year. Why is being prepared, just in case, such a bad thing to people.

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

Or you know, just do what all you fucking retarded muppets did last year and get screwed again.


Also I wholeheartedly disagree, there are plenty of other years between 2008 and 2017 that you would have benefitted from winter tires. Keep in mind that although snow and ice is the major hurdle. Even just lots of rain and cooler temps below 7 degrees it is beneficial to have proper winter rated tires.


The bottom line is this; if you value your car, your safety, your life, the safety of those around you, you will buy winter tires.

If you are a stupid, lazy, cheap, cunt, you wont buy winter tires.

This conversation also extends WAYYY beyond winter tires, including things like ice melt, salt, a shovel (since some of you retards don't even own a cunting shovel), Basic home supplies like a good flashlight, candles, bottled water, etc.

For Fuck sakes I'm not saying become a prepper and have a nuclear fallout shelter in your backyard, but I am saying maybe try and think a little farther ahead than tomorrow and consider what might happen during a state of emergency?

[UnknownJinX]

Lol This is exactly the attitude that had everyone get butt fucked by winter in vancouver this past year. Why is being prepared, just in case, such a bad thing to people.

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

Or you know, just do what all you fucking retarded muppets did last year and get screwed again.


Also I wholeheartedly disagree, there are plenty of other years between 2008 and 2017 that you would have benefitted from winter tires. Keep in mind that although snow and ice is the major hurdle. Even just lots of rain and cooler temps below 7 degrees it is beneficial to have proper winter rated tires.


The bottom line is this; if you value your car, your safety, your life, the safety of those around you, you will buy winter tires.

If you are a stupid, lazy, cheap, cunt, you wont buy winter tires.

This conversation also extends WAYYY beyond winter tires, including things like ice melt, salt, a shovel (since some of you retards don't even own a cunting shovel), Basic home supplies like a good flashlight, candles, bottled water, etc.

For Fuck sakes I'm not saying become a prepper and have a nuclear fallout shelter in your backyard, but I am saying maybe try and think a little farther ahead than tomorrow and consider what might happen during a state of emergency?I love how some people can afford BMW, but cheap out on winter tires, and crash their BMW on a pole.

Yeah, like saving ~$1000 is totally worth it for a $50k+ car and your own safety.

If you have FWD or AWD and don't feel like having 2 sets of tires, get a set of good all-weather tires. If you have RWD, please get a dedicated set of winter tires.

Also, I think I need to get salt now... And a shovel. Almost got screwed last year.

[AzNightmare]

Yesterday I was at Rona and saw some snow shovels being sold. I was tempted to buy one cause I want to upgrade my plastic one to a metal one. But I decided to hold off for now in case I find a better deal. But if I didn't already have a plastic one to use, I would have bought it on the spot. Better prepare now, and not bitch about things being sold out later.

I haven't seen salt in stock yet though. Are stores carrying them this early?

dont jump the gun, if u live in vanc. wait to see what kinda winter we'll have. (weather system)

2008/ 2017 is the only time i've needed winter time in the last 10 years.

True... but after last year, I've learnt it's better to just have the proper gear than to just try to get by with something that might be adequate. It feels so awesome when everything is just so much easier. Hence why I rather get a metal shovel for this year so I'm not struggling so much trying to break ice. It's worth it, and time is money, and people wouldn't be so reluctant to just shovel their sidewalks if they had the proper tool to make it easier...

If everyone just got snow tires, maybe traffic wouldn't be such a shit show cause of people barely getting by with their all seasons.

[R. Mutt]

I'm not risking it this year either. I was totally unprepared last year but I lived downtown and could get away a little more with public transportation even if there were delays. We just moved out to Kingsway & Boundary and I remember the roads were pretty icy around here last winter. Got a set of winter sottozero 3 for the golf R. I'll just wait and see how things are by the end of October before putting them on. It's just not worth the risk when it's all said and done better to be safe than sorry. Likewise, there will always be those stubborn drivers running all seasons or 5+ year winter rubber. If someone hits your vehicle at least you have the appropriate tires mounted, should your claim warrant an investigation. Which reminds me, probably time to get a dash cam as well.

[underscore]

Yesterday I was at Rona and saw some snow shovels being sold. I was tempted to buy one cause I want to upgrade my plastic one to a metal one. But I decided to hold off for now in case I find a better deal. But if I didn't already have a plastic one to use, I would have bought it on the spot. Better prepare now, and not bitch about things being sold out later.

Buy a metal one now, hold onto your plastic one and sell it on Craigslist for a crazy amount later on.

[meme405]

I'm not risking it this year either. I was totally unprepared last year but I lived downtown and could get away a little more with public transportation even if there were delays. We just moved out to Kingsway & Boundary and I remember the roads were pretty icy around here last winter. Got a set of winter sottozero 3 for the golf R. I'll just wait and see how things are by the end of October before putting them on. It's just not worth the risk when it's all said and done better to be safe than sorry. Likewise, there will always be those stubborn drivers running all seasons or 5+ year winter rubber. If someone hits your vehicle at least you have the appropriate tires mounted, should your claim warrant an investigation. Which reminds me, probably time to get a dash cam as well.

Exactly!

Also the part that kills me is that people seem to think that buying winter rubber is like flushing money down the drain, but in reality you are saving wear on your summer tires. So you just replace those half as much and the other half of the money goes towards the winter rubber you run for 6 months of the year. At the end of the day it the price difference ends up being a wash. And if you get rid of the car just sell the tires either as a bonus with the car, or if the guy lowballs you take them out of the deal and sell them on CL.

[fliptuner]

https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/pml/zip/d/winter-tires-in-good/6314592999.html

https://images.craigslist.org/00Z0Z_2b3YM4IWzgW_1200x900.jpg

[BIC_BAWS]

https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/pml/zip/d/winter-tires-in-good/6314592999.html

https://images.craigslist.org/00Z0Z_2b3YM4IWzgW_1200x900.jpgGone.

Sent from my STV100-1 using Tapatalk

[Badhobz]

walmart is selling steelies for 54 bucks a pop (14-16" only)

https://www.walmart.ca/en/automotive/tires/tire-rims/N-254

[gilly]

^ I just bought 16in from costco for $49.99

[fliptuner]

Costco also offers hubcentric steelies

[Jmac]

Vancouver climate data
Environment Canada

Average date of first fall frost: November 10
Average date of last spring frost: March 18

Average days w/ snowfall >= 5 cm by month:
April-October: 0
November: 0.27
December: 0.86
January: 0.73
February: 0.43
March: 0.20

Average total snowfall by month:
May-September: 0
October: 0.1 cm
November: 3.2 cm
December: 14.8 cm
January: 11.1 cm
February: 6.3 cm
March: 2.3 cm
April: 0.3 cm

Extreme daily snowfall by month:
May-September: 0 cm
October: 2 cm
November: 22.1 cm
December: 41 cm
January: 29.7 cm
February: 28.6 cm
March: 25.9 cm
April: 3.8 cm

Average days w/ minimum temperature <= 2°C:
June-September: 0
October: 1.8
November: 9.5
December: 18.2
January: 15.9
February: 14.7
March: 10
April: 2.3
May: 0.03

Interpret the data how you like, but I think it's fair to say that, even within city limits, you should have winter tires on for the months of December-February. November-March is probably a good idea in non-El Nino years and a must in La Nina years (which we had this past winter).

If you go into the mountains, you should probably have them on October-March.

[underscore]

If you go into the mountains, you should probably have them on October-March.

You have to have them for most highways, by law, from Oct 1 - Mar 31: Designated Winter Tire & Chain-up Routes - Province of British Columbia (http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/traveller-information/seasonal/winter-driving/winter-tires-and-chains/winter-tire-and-chain-up-routes)

[320icar]

^^ it says you can have either the mountain with snow flake (which is a real winter tire) or the M+S which every all season has.

I have pilot super sports so I don't have a choice but to install my winters. Going camping sept 30th. I'd rather run all season during October/March but having 3 sets of wheels and tires is probably dumb

[Jmac]

Yeah, they changed the rule for winter 2014-2015 to allow M+S.

[roastpuff]

Yeah, they changed the rule for winter 2014-2015 to allow M+S.

Stupid. :failed:

Should force people on the Interior passes (even Sea to Sky) to run proper winters.

[Zedbra]

Stupid. :failed:

Should force people on the Interior passes (even Sea to Sky) to run proper winters.

on heavy snow days, the police set up road blocks on the S2S by Alice Lake and regardless of your all seasons having the M+S on them, if you don't have dedicated snow tires or chains, you aren't driving to Whistler. I like that they are doing this, to be honest - there are too many wipe-outs up here shutting down the highway for hours to others that are properly prepared.

[BIC_BAWS]

i need some advice, so my stock e46 coupe setup is

F: 225/45/17x7.5
R: 245/40/17x8.5



Is that the oem e46 non-m size?

This is my current, and seems to have no change in speedometer variance, but only about 1.5 fingers for wheel gap.

F: 235/30/19x9
R: 275/35/19x10

So ideally, I would need something smaller than 17s for winters? But if I go down in rim size, that would mean my car becomes even more lowered (I want to go higher)?

For the purposes of winter safety, I'd then have to get new suspension and smaller wheels? Or do are the differences in having 19s and 16s for winters negligible? I'm asking because the car came with a set of WRG2s in 235/30/19 square, so if I don't have to switch I won't. But if it's strongly advised, I will.

TIA

[hud 91gt]

^^ Just because you have a smaller rim doesn't mean your outside tire diameter is smaller.

Why do you need a smaller rims then 17 for winter?

[underscore]

^^ it says you can have either the mountain with snow flake (which is a real winter tire) or the M+S which every all season has.

True, but lets be honest, you can't really get away with M+S anywhere outside of the GVRD.

on heavy snow days, the police set up road blocks on the S2S by Alice Lake and regardless of your all seasons having the M+S on them, if you don't have dedicated snow tires or chains, you aren't driving to Whistler. I like that they are doing this, to be honest - there are too many wipe-outs up here shutting down the highway for hours to others that are properly prepared.

They need to do this in more places. I'm guessing the resources aren't always available though.

[boibuddha]

So ideally, I would need something smaller than 17s for winters? But if I go down in rim size, that would mean my car becomes even more lowered (I want to go higher)?

The only reason to go smaller would be cheaper tires and softer ride, assuming you are running the same overall diameter.
If you reduce your overall wheel diameter, your car will be lower but you will actually have more fender clearance. If you go bigger, you will have more ground clearance but you are more likely to rub on your fenders.


For the purposes of winter safety, I'd then have to get new suspension and smaller wheels? Or do are the differences in having 19s and 16s for winters negligible? I'm asking because the car came with a set of WRG2s in 235/30/19 square, so if I don't have to switch I won't. But if it's strongly advised, I will.

TIA

No need for a new suspension, but running those skinny tires could lead to a bent rim in pothole season.

[Badhobz]

I'm asking because the car came with a set of WRG2s in 235/30/19 square, so if I don't have to switch I won't. But if it's strongly advised, I will.

TIA

i thought the WRG2's Nokians are winter rated tires? arent those "all weather" tires instead of all seasons?

[320icar]

Yeah they are an all weather but they should have he mountain/snow flake on them. I've used them before with great results.

[Jmac]

WRG2 is severe winter rated, but they were discontinued for the WRG3s 4 years ago. You should check the date of manufacturing on the sidewall to make sure they're not too old (Depending where you read, it's generally recommended tires shouldn't be more than 6-10 years old as performance deteriorates with age; winter tires have shorter shelf lives as well).

I also had the WRG2s on two vehicles, worked well in the snow, but longevity was not great.

[twitchyzero]

Also the part that kills me is that people seem to think that buying winter rubber is like flushing money down the drain, but in reality you are saving wear on your summer tires. So you just replace those half as much and the other half of the money goes towards the winter rubber you run for 6 months of the year. At the end of the day it the price difference ends up being a wash.

assuming you drive your vehicle enough during the 5-year shelf-life
assuming you have storage space for an extra set

[TOPEC]

The only reason to go smaller would be cheaper tires and softer ride, assuming you are running the same overall diameter.
If you reduce your overall wheel diameter, your car will be lower but you will actually have more fender clearance. If you go bigger, you will have more ground clearance but you are more likely to rub on your fenders.


depending on snow condition, re: driving on hard packed snow vs unplowed powder, u'll want narrower tires to cut through snow better than wide tires where the tires are more likely to "float" on top, kind of like hydroplaning

[chinese_driver]

Is that the oem e46 non-m size?

This is my current, and seems to have no change in speedometer variance, but only about 1.5 fingers for wheel gap.

F: 235/30/19x9
R: 275/35/19x10

So ideally, I would need something smaller than 17s for winters? But if I go down in rim size, that would mean my car becomes even more lowered (I want to go higher)?

For the purposes of winter safety, I'd then have to get new suspension and smaller wheels? Or do are the differences in having 19s and 16s for winters negligible? I'm asking because the car came with a set of WRG2s in 235/30/19 square, so if I don't have to switch I won't. But if it's strongly advised, I will.

TIA

yeah that is my stock non M size on style 68s. id recommend getting a dedicated set of winters for your stock 17s. and definitely check the expiry of the WRG2s, had a set of those before on my jeep and the tread didnt last long at all, especially yours being a 30 profile. and they were mediocre in the snow with AWD, so im not sure how much better they could be in our RWD...

also how bad do you rub with 19x10 in the rear?