Winter tires are not optional equipment in much of Canada — Quebec legally requires them December 1 to March 15, and insurers across the country recognize their safety value. In 2026, a set of four winter tires typically costs $650–$1,000 installed for a compact car, $850–$1,400 for a sedan or small SUV, and $1,150–$2,050+ for trucks, large SUVs and EVs.
Tire size dominates the price: a 15-inch compact tire costs a fraction of a 20-inch truck tire. Figures below are Canadian planning ranges including mounting and balancing.
Set-of-four prices by vehicle
| Vehicle | Tires only (set of 4) | Installed total |
|---|---|---|
| Compact car | $500–$850 | $650–$1,000 |
| Sedan / small SUV | $700–$1,200 | $850–$1,400 |
| Premium SUV / truck / EV | $1,000–$1,800+ | $1,150–$2,050+ |
| With steel wheels (set) | $950–$1,700 | $1,150–$2,050 |
| With alloy wheels (set) | $1,400–$2,800+ | $1,650–$3,150+ |
The extras in the invoice
- Mounting & balancing ($60–$180): per seasonal changeover; dedicated wheels cut this to a simple swap ($30–$70).
- Steel wheels ($75–$175 each): a dedicated winter set avoids twice-yearly mounting wear and pays back in 2–3 seasons.
- Storage ($40–$120/season): if you lack garage space, most tire shops offer seasonal storage.
- TPMS sensors: vehicles with tire-pressure monitoring may need a second sensor set ($200–$400) or live with a dashboard light all winter.
Quebec's mandate and insurance discounts
Quebec requires winter-rated tires (three-peak mountain snowflake symbol) from December 1 to March 15 — fines apply. Elsewhere, winter tires are strongly recommended but not legally required. Many Canadian insurers offer winter-tire discounts (typically a few percent) with proof of installation — ask your insurer; it is rarely automatic.
Buy in October: prices and selection are best in early fall. By late November, popular sizes sell out and you pay full price for whatever is left.
Frequently asked questions
How much do winter tires cost in Canada in 2026?
Set of four installed: $650–$1,000 (compact), $850–$1,400 (sedan/small SUV), $1,150–$2,050+ (truck/large SUV/EV). Steel wheels add $300–$700 for the set.
Are winter tires mandatory in Canada?
In Quebec, yes — December 1 to March 15 (three-peak mountain snowflake symbol required). Other provinces recommend but do not mandate them.
Do winter tires lower insurance premiums?
Many insurers offer a small winter-tire discount with proof of installation, but it is policy-specific — ask your insurer rather than assuming.
How long do winter tires last?
Typically 4–6 winter seasons. Replace when tread depth nears 6/32" — winter grip falls off well before the legal minimum tread.
Sources and methodology
- QualityDays: Costco Canada Winter Tire Prices in 2026
- Kredit.sc: 2026 Tire Prices in Canada by Size
- AutoNiche: Seasonal Tire Change Pricing (Markham, ON)
This article provides general information for planning purposes, not professional advice or a quote. Cost figures are NorthPeak planning estimates unless a source is named; confirm current prices with licensed local contractors and professionals before making decisions.