Nobody looks forward to tire swap season, but driving on the wrong tires is a lot worse than spending an hour at the dealership. At Barry Cullen Chevrolet, we make the whole process easy. Our certified technicians handle everything from mounting and torquing to a full tire inspection, so you can drive away more confident than you came in.
Why Swap Your Tires Seasonally?
Winter tires are made from a softer rubber compound that stays flexible in cold temperatures, giving you better grip on snow and ice. But that same soft compound wears down quickly in warm weather. On the other hand, summer and all-season tires are built to handle warmer road surfaces and perform better in the rain.
Running the wrong tires for the season means compromising on safety, fuel efficiency, and tire life. Swapping twice a year, once in the fall, once in the spring, means you’re always driving on tires designed for what the road is actually throwing at you. Especially in Canada, where winters can get serious in a hurry, that’s not something you want to leave to chance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tire Swaps
When Should You Swap Your Tires?
When daytime temperatures are consistently above 7°C, it’s time to swap your winters off. When temperatures drop back below 7°C in the fall, it’s time to put them back on. If you’re not sure whether it’s time to swap, give us a call, and we’ll help you figure it out.
How long does a tire swap take?
In most cases, a tire swap should be about 30 to 60 minutes. That said, wait times can vary depending on how busy the shop is, especially during peak season in the spring and fall. Booking an appointment in advance is the best way to minimize your wait time.
Do I need to balance my tires every time I swap them?
Not necessarily every time, but it’s a good idea to have your tires balanced periodically, especially if you notice any vibration while driving. If it’s been a while since your tires were balanced, or if they’ve been in storage, we recommend having them checked when you swap. Our team can let you know what’s needed when you come in.
Can I drop off my tires if I'm storing them myself?
Absolutely. If you store your own tires at home, just bring both sets with you when you come in for your appointment, and we’ll take care of the swap.
How do I know when it's time to replace my tires instead of swapping them?
If your tires are showing significant wear, cracking in the sidewall, or are more than six to ten years old, it may be time to look at replacing them rather than swapping them for another season. When you bring your vehicle in, our technicians will inspect your tires and let you know if any of them are due for replacement with no pressure and just honest advice.
Book Your Tire Swap at Barry Cullen Chevrolet
Don’t wait until the rush. Tire swap season gets busy fast, and appointment slots fill up quickly in the spring and fall. The team at Barry Cullen Chevrolet is ready to get you in and out so you can get back to your day. Book a service appointment by filling out the form below or contact us with any questions. We’re proud to serve drivers in Guelph and the surrounding area.