Ontario winters are hard on any car, and a heavy, instant-torque EV is no exception. Winter tires are one of the best upgrades you can make for safety and peace of mind. Here’s what Tesla Model 3 and Model Y owners should know before the first snowfall.
Why winter tires (and not all-seasons)?
All-season tires harden as temperatures drop, so they lose grip. Winter tires use softer rubber and deeper tread that stay flexible and grip on snow, slush and ice. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol on the sidewall. Tesla’s own tire care guidance recommends winter tires in cold climates and says to install them as a full set of four.
What size do I need?
Always use the size on the Tire and Loading Information label in your driver’s door jamb. Common factory sizes include:
- Model 3: 235/45R18 (18″), 235/40R19 (19″) and 235/35R20 (20″) depending on the trim and year
- Model Y: 255/45R19 (19″), 255/40R20 (20″), and a staggered 21″ setup (255/35R21 front, 275/35R21 rear) on some trims
Many owners put winter tires on a smaller wheel, like 18″ on a Model 3 or 19″ on a Model Y. A taller sidewall rides better over potholes and protects the rims, and winter tires in smaller sizes usually cost less. Make sure the wheel clears your brakes, especially on Performance models. A tire shop can confirm fitment.
A separate set of wheels saves time and money
Mounting winter tires on their own wheels means a seasonal swap takes minutes, with no remounting each spring and fall. Over a few seasons that usually pays for itself and is easier on the tires.
Don’t forget TPMS sensors
Model 3 and Model Y vehicles from about 2021 on use Bluetooth (BLE) tire pressure sensors. Older cars used 433 MHz radio sensors. If you buy a second set of wheels, the sensors must match your car or you’ll get a tire pressure warning all winter. After installing the wheels, drive for a while so the car learns the sensors. Then update your wheel setting under Controls > Service > Wheel & Tire Configuration so range estimates and tire pressure readings stay accurate. A good tire shop will check this for you.
When should I put them on?
The usual rule of thumb is to install winter tires once daytime temperatures stay around 7°C or lower. In southern Ontario that’s typically late October to mid-November. Shops get very busy after the first snowfall, so book early.
The Ontario winter tire insurance discount
Since January 1, 2016, Ontario has required insurers to offer a discount on private passenger auto policies for cars equipped with winter tires (O. Reg. 222/15). The law does not set the size of the discount, the installation dates or what counts as a winter tire. Each insurer sets its own rules.
That matters. As Millars Lawyers points out, some insurers require winter tires on by a certain date, such as November 1 or December 1. If you claim the discount and haven’t installed them by then, it could complicate a claim. Call your insurer or broker, ask for the discount, and ask exactly which dates and tires qualify.
Winter driving tips for Tesla owners
- Check pressures often. Tire pressure drops as temperatures fall. Use the recommended pressure on your door jamb label.
- Precondition. Warm the cabin and battery from the app while plugged in. It saves range and clears ice.
- Expect lower range. Cold weather and winter tread both reduce efficiency. That’s normal.
- Rotate and inspect. Check tread depth before each season. Worn winter tires lose much of their advantage.
Where to get them done
Pick a shop that knows EVs. They should use proper lift points for the battery pack, handle BLE TPMS sensors, and stock sizes that fit Model 3 and Y. Many Ontario owners recommend Tire Connections, and Raffi Sallakhian and his team can help with winter tire and wheel packages, seasonal swaps and storage. Wherever you go, book before the rush.
Bottom line
Get a full set of four winter tires with the mountain snowflake symbol, ideally on their own wheels with matching TPMS sensors. Have them on before the snow flies, and call your insurer about the discount and its rules. Your Tesla will feel like a different car on snowy Ontario roads.
Have a question this guide didn’t answer? Ask over 17,000 Ontario Tesla owners in our Tesla Model Y & 3 [Ontario, Canada] Facebook group.
Photo: HopsonRoad via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.