Are winter tires really necessary in Manitoba? The answer is yes—and not just when it snows. In cold climates like ours, the right tires can dramatically improve your safety, handling, and stopping power. Still, many Manitoba drivers skip winter tires due to common myths. In this article, we’re busting the top five misconceptions—so you can drive smarter, safer, and with more confidence all season long.
In this blog, we’re setting the record straight on five of the most common winter tire misconceptions.
Myth 1: “Winter Tires Are Only for Snowy Roads”
Not quite. Even if there’s no snow on the ground, winter tires still offer major benefits once the temperature drops below 7°C. That’s because their rubber compounds stay soft and grippy in cold conditions—unlike all-season tires, which harden and lose traction. Better flexibility means better control, even on dry pavement.
Myth 2: “Brakes stop the car—not tires.”
Your brakes might initiate the stop, but your tires are what actually grip the road. On icy or snowy surfaces, that grip becomes critical. Winter tires are designed with deeper grooves and tiny sipes that bite into slippery surfaces, helping you stop shorter and safer.
Myth 3: “All-Season Tires Work Fine in Winter”
All-season tires are built for moderate weather—not true Canadian winters. They don’t have the specialized tread or rubber formulation to handle ice and snow effectively. Swapping to winter tires not only improves performance but also extends the lifespan of your all-seasons, since they get a break for half the year.
Myth 4: “Winter Tires Are Too Expensive”
When you factor in the wear-and-tear savings on your regular tires, winter tires are actually a smart investment. Many drivers also take advantage of the MPI Winter Tire Program, which allows you to finance your purchase and spread the cost out over time.
Myth 5: “AWD Means I Don’t Need Winter Tires”
AWD helps with acceleration, but it won’t help you stop or corner on ice. Without winter tires, even AWD vehicles can struggle to maintain traction in harsh conditions. The best setup? All-wheel drive plus proper winter tires.
Winter Tire FAQs
Q: Do I need winter tires in Manitoba even if I have AWD?
Yes. AWD helps with acceleration, but only winter tires improve stopping and cornering in cold, slippery conditions.
Q: At what temperature should I switch to winter tires?
Switch to winter tires when daily temperatures consistently drop below 7°C.
Q: Can I finance winter tires in Manitoba?
Yes. The MPI Winter Tire Program lets eligible drivers finance their purchase and spread the cost over time.
Don’t Let Myths Stand Between You and Winter Safety
Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, or truck, winter tires make a measurable difference in how your vehicle handles Manitoba’s roads. From improved traction to shorter stopping distances, the benefits are real—and they go far beyond just snowy days.
Book your winter tire swap at birchwood.ca and explore seasonal tire packages, flexible financing through the MPI Winter Tire Program, and complimentary tire storage at most Birchwood dealerships across Manitoba.
