All About Tires
Everything You Need to Know About Tires: Your Guide from Granville & Avery Automotive
At Granville & Avery Automotive, we’ve been keeping Vancouver drivers on the road safely since 1988. One of the most common questions we hear in our shop is, “What tires should I get for my vehicle?” With so many options—summer, winter, all-season, all-weather—and factors like weather, cost, and size to consider, it’s no wonder choosing the right tires can feel overwhelming. As your trusted automotive repair shop in Vancouver, BC, we’re here to break it all down for you and help you source the perfect tires for your ride. Let’s dive in!
Tire Types 101: What’s the Difference?
When you step into Granville & Avery Automotive, we often start by explaining the main tire types and what sets them apart:
Summer Tires: Built for warm weather, these tires shine on dry roads and handle wet conditions well, thanks to their grippy rubber and sleek tread patterns. They’re perfect for performance enthusiasts but stiffen up below 7°C, making them less ideal for Vancouver’s cooler months.
Winter Tires: Designed for snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, winter tires use softer rubber and deeper treads to bite into slippery surfaces. They’re a must if you’re venturing beyond Vancouver into BC’s snowy interior or mountain passes.
All-Season Tires: The jack-of-all-trades option, all-season tires offer decent performance year-round in mild climates. They’re great for dry summers and light rain but lose traction below 7°C or in heavy snow—think of them as a “three-season” tire in Canada.
All-Weather Tires: A hybrid between all-season and winter tires, these are marked with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol, meaning they’re certified for severe winter conditions while still performing well in summer. They’re a versatile choice for drivers who want one set of tires year-round.
Confused yet? Don’t worry—we’re experts at matching the right tire to your driving habits and vehicle. Stop by Granville & Avery Automotive, and we’ll source the perfect set for you!
What’s the Best Tire for Vancouver, BC Drivers?
Vancouver’s weather is unique—mild, wet winters with occasional slush, and warm, dry summers. Prolonged snow is rare in the city, but if you’re heading up to the North Shore mountains or out to the Fraser Valley, conditions can change fast. So, what makes the most sense here?
For most Vancouver drivers, we recommend having two sets of tires: all-season tires for summer and winter tires for when it gets cold. All-seasons handle our warm, dry summers and frequent rain beautifully, making them a reliable choice for about three-quarters of the year. Meanwhile, winter tires step up when temperatures drop below 7°C or when you’re tackling slushy city streets or snowy highways. This combo maximizes safety and performance year-round, and we can store your off-season set to make swapping easy.
That said, if you prefer a single-set solution, all-weather tires are a fantastic alternative. They handle our rainy winters, occasional light snow, and summer heat without the hassle of seasonal changes. Plus, they meet BC’s winter tire requirements for highways outside the Lower Mainland (October 1 to April 30), giving you peace of mind if you travel. If you stick strictly to city streets and rarely see snow, all-season tires alone might suffice—but they’re not as reliable when it gets chilly.
For those who frequently tackle snowy highways or live in higher elevations, winter tires are the safest bet during the colder months. At Granville & Avery, we’ve seen it all, and we’ll help you pick tires that match Vancouver’s trends and your driving needs.
Why Do Some Tires Cost More Than Others?
Ever wonder why tire prices vary so much? It’s not just about the brand—here’s what drives the cost:
Materials & Technology: Premium tires use advanced rubber compounds and tread designs for better grip, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Cheaper tires might skimp here, wearing out faster.
Performance Features: High-performance summer tires or studded winter tires cost more due to their specialized engineering.
Durability: Tires with higher treadwear ratings last longer, justifying a higher upfront price.
Brand Reputation: Well-known brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Continental invest in R&D, which can bump up the cost—but you’re paying for proven quality.
At Granville & Avery Automotive, we work with you to find the best tire solution for your budget. While we strive to keep costs manageable, it’s worth remembering that, in general, you get what you pay for—less expensive tires may not deliver the same performance, safety, or longevity as a more premium option.
Our Favorite Tire Brands
With so many brands out there, which should you choose? We’ve got some favorites we love recommending to our Vancouver customers:
Michelin: Known for durability and all-weather performance, like the CrossClimate 2—a top pick for our rainy city.
Bridgestone: Reliable across all tire types, with standouts like the Blizzak for winter driving.
BFGoodrich: Great for rugged SUVs and trucks, offering tough all-terrain options.
Firestone: Affordable yet dependable, perfect for budget-conscious drivers.
Toyo Tires: A shop favorite! We order Toyo tires often because they offer excellent value for money. Our staff have used them on their own vehicles and rave about their performance in Vancouver’s wet conditions, plus their durability at a reasonable price point.
We work with trusted suppliers to get these brands (and more!) at competitive prices. Tell us your vehicle make and model, and we’ll track down the best match.
Spring Rebates: Save Big on Tires Right Now!
There’s no better time to upgrade your tires—many manufacturers are currently offering spring promotions with money back (usually on a prepaid card) when you purchase a set of four. Brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Toyo are in on the action, giving you a chance to save while equipping your vehicle for the season ahead. For full details on eligible tires and rebate amounts, check out https://tirepromos.com/en/dttire. Stop by Granville & Avery Automotive today, and we’ll help you take advantage of these limited-time offers while sourcing the perfect tires for your ride!
Book Your Tire Appointment Online
Ready to get rolling with new tires? At Granville & Avery Automotive, we’ve made it easy to schedule your visit. You can book online anytime using our convenient appointment system here: Book Now. Pick a time that works for you, and we’ll take care of the rest—whether it’s sourcing tires, mounting, balancing, or a quick inspection.
Tire Size: What Does It Mean?
Those numbers on your tire sidewall—like 205/55 R16—aren’t just random. Here’s the breakdown:
205: The width in millimeters. Wider tires often mean better grip but can affect fuel efficiency.
55: The aspect ratio (height as a percentage of width). Lower numbers mean a sportier, stiffer ride.
R16: “R” stands for radial construction (standard today), and “16” is the wheel diameter in inches.
Using the wrong size can throw off your vehicle’s handling and safety, so stick to what’s recommended in your owner’s manual or door jamb. Not sure? Bring your car to Granville & Avery—we’ll decode it for you and source the right fit.
Bonus Tip: Maintenance Matters!
Tires are an investment, and a little care goes a long way. Rotate them every 8,000-10,000 km, check pressure monthly (especially in Vancouver’s temperature swings), and watch for uneven wear. Spot an issue? Our BCAA-approved team offers expert inspections and repairs to keep you rolling smoothly.
Why Choose Granville & Avery Automotive?
We’re not just about fixing cars—we’re about building trust. Whether you need tires sourced, mounted, balanced, or repaired, we’ve got you covered with a commitment to quality. Vancouver drivers have relied on us since 1988, and we’d love to help you next. Drop by or call us today to get the perfect tires for your vehicle—and hit the road with confidence, rain or shine!
