BC winter tire laws
BC winter tire laws
In BC, a legal winter tire must have a tread depth of at least 3.5mm, and it must also be labeled as “M and S”, meaning that it is a “mud and snow” or “all season” tire. This is the minimum requirement. Instead of this symbol, it may instead have a 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol, which are usually better winter tires. The BC government does not recommend driving in winter conditions with summer tires, and putting chains onto summer tires is illegal during the wintertime.
Matching qualities
You should ideally use 4 tires which match in terms of type, tread depth, and tread type. You should avoid mixing tires of different types, as this could make your car less stable.
Air Pressure
Cold tires see their air pressure decrease, so it is essential to get your air pressure checked regularly and keep your tired topped up if need be.
Chains
Steel link chains are ideal for traction in snow and ice, and will also keep your car stable on banked curves. Cable chains are also good for general traction but may let you down on banked curves due to slipping.
Studded Tires
Studded tires may be used on BC highways from October 1 till April 30, although using them outside of this period could see you being fined. The studs should not protrude more than 2 mm from the tread of the tire. It is a legal requirement that you must use studded tires for ALL of your tires (instead of just a couple) and this is the best way to stabilize traction.
Textile Tire Cover
Textile tire covers help to improve traction in snow and icy conditions, but bear in mind that they will soon perish on regular asphalt.
No one wants to be landed with an unexpected fine due to the condition of their winter tires, so be sure to follow these laws and drive safely during the perilous winter months here in BC. If you are unsure if your vehicle meets BC legal requirements, drop by Paragon Motors today!
Reviews
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wouter van der hall
Pleasant and skilled staff/owners. Always ready to help and adjust to your schedule when needed for more elaborate repairs. Nice massage chair in the waiting area too! Would certainly recommend.
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Haley D
Paragon Motors provides excellent service. They got me in for an oil change and to mount and balance my tires right away when all other shops were booked for a couple weeks. They are very thorough and provide a breakdown of upcoming maintenance they suggest for you to consider in... read more
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Matthew Richardson
Paragon Motors was a delight. Not only did they give us the best price, but they actually fixed what was wrong. We had taken our car to another place first and they misdiagnosed the problem. Rick took it around the block and knew exactly what to do to get it... read more
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John Cook
Excellent service and the prices are more than fair. Zero complaints and I will be going back.
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Anita Millar
They are honest and have been looking after my vehicles for over 25 years!
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Phil Spoelstra
I've never been more motivated to write a review than this! My wife came off the Coquihalla from Vancouver with some car problems and couldn't find a place open on Saturday that could help her. She found Paragon Motors who showed her kindness, respect and understanding.... read more
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Joe Bell
best service in town by far
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Freddie Banfield
Always good. No complaints. Drews the best hands down.
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Phil S.
I've never been more motivated to write a review than this! My wife came off the Coquihalla from Vancouver with some car problems and couldn't find a place open on Saturday that could help her. She found Paragon Motors who showed her kindness, respect and understanding. They fixed the... read more
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Carol Boutilier
Excellent service, complete confidence my vehicle is safe and well maintained. No overcharges, talk up in packages and value for your money, no gouging. I highly recommend this fabulous team they really care for people and their reputation is paramount to everyone at Paragon. Paragon's top rating... read more
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Laurie Paxton
The best mechanical, customer and personal service. I recently had quite a hiccup and Drew, Rick and their team stick handled everything so professionally and with empathy for my situation. Thank you so much. True integrity.
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Michael Baccari
Awesome, highly recommend. Very nice and accommodating. I had to leave my car there for a few days due to traveling. After they were done with the repair they phoned and asked if I'd like my car to be inspected for any other issues that needed to be addressed.
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Bill Roper
Drew, Rick @ Susan have been simply awesome!!
I brought in a very uncommon car and they were amazing!!!
No BS, just plain facts no attempt to over sell!!
Bill Roper -
Carla Polischuk
Rick and his crew at Paragon motors are awesome!! They are knowledgeable and friendly...the service is great!!!
I trust them with my car 100%!!!
Volkswagen Service and Repair
DirectionsCALL: 250-762-6006BOOK APPOINTMENTVolkswagen is known for manufacturing some of the most reliable and high-performing affordable vehicles available. If you own a Volkswagen, you understand that keeping your Volkswagen in top condition is important. Our...
Audi Service and Repair
DirectionsCALL: 250-762-6006BOOK APPOINTMENTAt Paragon Motors in Kelowna, BC, we are the experts when it comes to Audi service and repairs. Audi vehicles have a stylish appearance that also offers great performance and reliability. It's important to keep up with your...
