Need winter tires? Ontario tire shops are warning residents to get them early this year
Tire supply shops are warning Ontarians that securing specific types of tires this year may be more difficult than usual due to shortages caused by the pandemic.
“Last year, when COVID-19 started, there was a big pause in production at most of the tire manufacturers," Ron Pierce, Ontario Regional Director with Kal Tire, told CTV News Toronto.
The shortage could be caused by a number of factors — some tire companies had to close down their factories amid the pandemic, there’s been a shortage of rubber due to recent poor rubber tree harvests and some ports have been closed, leading to shipping delays.
Pierce said that, while Kal Tire is well stocked with inventory, he expects some sizes could sell out and be harder to restock this fall and winter.
“I would really recommend shopping early, especially if you are looking for a specific brand or sizing. There will be sizes and tires that will not be available out there.”
At Green Car Tire in Scarborough, they've also been told by suppliers some tires will be harder to source this fall.
“We've heard from all our suppliers that there will be a limited supply of some tires," Corey Stokes with Green Car Tire said.
Stokes said while tire shops may have a good supply now, that could change as the season progresses.
“You’re better off to try and get them sooner than later, especially if your insurance obligates you to have them on your vehicle,” he said.
Frances Ranger was in to get her winter tires switched, as she wanted to get it done before the first snowfall.
“My husband was on the ball and made the appointment nice and early, so we are not caught having to wait longer than we wanted to," Ranger said.
Every year more Canadians are switching to winter tires and, according to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, about 69 per cent of drivers use them.
The tire industry expects the supply chain issues won't be resolved for at least another year.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.