Does Ontario require insurers to offer a winter-tire discount? Yes. For private-passenger auto policies issued or renewed from January 1, 2016, Ontario’s regulation requires insurers to include a winter-tire discount in their rating systems. The amount, qualifying dates, proof and eligible tire rules depend on the insurer.
For this article, our team reviewed the Ontario regulation that created the winter-tire discount requirement, FSRA’s current discount guidance and Transport Canada’s winter-tire safety guidance.
Keep reading to see what is fixed by law, what your insurer can set, how to request the discount and which proof to keep.
How Much Is the Ontario Winter-Tire Discount?
Ask your insurer about the percentage, the part of the premium it applies to and the annual dollar difference on your policy. Usually, you can expect a figure between 2% and 5%.
Which Tires Qualify?
Transport Canada recommends looking for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol. Tires with the symbol meet specified snow-traction requirements, and Transport Canada advises installing winter tires on all wheel positions. The symbol is more informative than an M+S marking alone.
Insurance eligibility can be narrower than the technical tire standard. Before buying all-weather tires or another year-round product, ask the insurer whether that exact type qualifies. Also confirm the required installation and removal dates, minimum tread, tire-age rule and whether all four tires must match.
Read More: Top Winter Tires for Canadian Driving
How Do You Claim the Discount?
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Ask before buying | Confirm the tire type, symbol, number of tires and seasonal dates in writing. |
| 2. Install the full set | Use four qualifying tires and follow the manufacturer’s size, load, pressure and rotation guidance. |
| 3. Tell the insurer or broker | Provide the installation date and request the effective date and dollar saving. |
| 4. Keep proof | Save the invoice, product details and installation record. Photos can supplement, not replace, the requested documents. |
| 5. Check the renewal | Confirm the discount remains on the policy and that the qualifying dates have not changed. |
What if You Miss the Installation Date?
Tell the insurer or broker. The discount may be removed or adjusted under the insurer’s filed rules. Missing a discount condition does not automatically prove that every unrelated claim is void, but inaccurate information or a breach that is material to the policy can create a separate issue. Ask for the effect in writing rather than guessing.
Why Use Winter Tires Even if the Discount Is Small?
Transport Canada says all-season and summer tires begin to lose elasticity below 7°C, while winter tires retain grip at lower temperatures. Tread and pressure still matter. Check pressure when the tires are cold and replace worn tires based on the manufacturer’s and safety guidance.
Read More: See Winter Driving Safety Tips for Canada