If you drive in Ontario and use winter tires, you're entitled to a discount on your car insurance. Since January 1, 2016, Ontario law has required all auto insurers to offer a discount to drivers who install winter tires. This guide explains everything you need to know about the winter tire discount.
What Is the Winter Tire Discount?
The winter tire discount is a government-mandated reduction in your car insurance premium for using winter tires. Under Ontario Regulation 300/13, all automobile insurers operating in Ontario must provide this discount to policyholders who use winter tires.
The typical discount is approximately 5% off your premium, though the exact amount may vary slightly between insurers. For the average Ontario driver, this translates to savings of $50-$150 or more per year.
Why Did Ontario Mandate This Discount?
The Ontario government introduced the mandatory winter tire discount as part of efforts to improve road safety during winter months. Winter tires significantly improve vehicle handling in cold weather conditions:
- Better Traction: Winter tires provide superior grip on snow, ice, and cold pavement
- Shorter Stopping Distances: Studies show winter tires can reduce stopping distances by up to 25% in winter conditions
- Improved Handling: The rubber compound in winter tires stays flexible in cold temperatures, unlike all-season tires that can harden
- Reduced Accident Risk: Better traction and handling mean fewer winter collisions
By incentivizing winter tire use through insurance discounts, the government aims to reduce winter driving accidents and their associated costs.
What Qualifies as a Winter Tire?
To qualify for the discount, your tires must meet specific standards. Qualifying winter tires include:
Tires with the Mountain/Snowflake Symbol
The most recognized standard for winter tires is the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. Tires bearing this symbol have been tested and certified to meet specific snow traction performance requirements. Look for this symbol molded into the tire sidewall.
M+S (Mud and Snow) Rated Tires
Tires marked with "M+S" (Mud and Snow) or "M/S" on the sidewall also typically qualify for the discount. However, the mountain/snowflake symbol indicates superior winter performance.
What Doesn't Qualify
- All-season tires (unless they have the mountain/snowflake symbol)
- Summer or performance tires
- Worn winter tires that no longer meet safety standards
How to Get the Winter Tire Discount
Step 1: Install Winter Tires on All Four Wheels
You must have winter tires installed on all four wheels of your vehicle, not just two. Installing winter tires on only the front or rear wheels can actually make your vehicle less safe and won't qualify you for the discount.
Step 2: Notify Your Insurance Company
The discount is not automatically applied. You need to contact your insurer and inform them that you have winter tires installed. You may need to provide:
- The brand and model of your winter tires
- Confirmation that tires are installed on all four wheels
- The period during which you use winter tires
Step 3: Provide Proof if Requested
Some insurers may request documentation such as:
- A receipt showing tire purchase
- Proof of installation from a tire shop
- Photos of your tires showing the winter tire symbol
When Should Winter Tires Be Installed?
For optimal safety and to qualify for the discount during winter months:
- Install by December 1: Most experts recommend having winter tires installed by late November or early December
- Remove by April 30: Winter tires should typically be removed by late April or early May
- Temperature Guide: Switch to winter tires when temperatures consistently drop below 7°C (45°F)
Using winter tires in warm weather causes them to wear faster and can actually reduce vehicle performance.
Calculating Your Savings
The actual dollar amount you save depends on your total premium. Here's how the math works:
| Annual Premium | 5% Discount Savings |
|---|---|
| $1,500 | $75 |
| $2,000 | $100 |
| $2,500 | $125 |
| $3,000 | $150 |
| $4,000 | $200 |
Over several years, these savings can offset a significant portion of the cost of purchasing winter tires.
Beyond the Discount: Other Benefits of Winter Tires
While the insurance discount is a nice benefit, the primary reasons to use winter tires are safety-related:
- Reduced Accident Risk: Proper winter tires significantly reduce your chances of being in a winter weather accident
- Lower Deductibles: Fewer accidents mean fewer claims and out-of-pocket deductible payments
- Protect Your Claims History: Avoiding accidents helps maintain your claims-free discount
- Peace of Mind: Better handling gives you confidence in challenging winter conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to switch insurers to get the discount?
No. All Ontario auto insurers are required by law to offer the winter tire discount. Simply contact your current insurer to have it applied.
Does the discount apply all year?
Typically, the discount applies to your annual premium, even though winter tires are only used for part of the year. However, confirm the specifics with your insurer.
Can I combine the winter tire discount with other discounts?
Yes. The winter tire discount can be combined with other discounts such as multi-vehicle, bundling, and claims-free discounts.
Are all-wheel-drive vehicles exempt from needing winter tires?
No. All-wheel drive helps with acceleration but doesn't improve braking or cornering. Winter tires are recommended for all vehicles regardless of drivetrain.
Get Your Winter Tire Discount
If you're not already receiving the winter tire discount, contact your insurer today to have it applied. It's an easy way to save money while staying safer on winter roads.
Looking for the best rate with all available discounts? Get your free Ontario car insurance quote and see how much you could save.