Winter tire discount auto insurance Ontario: up to 5% from 2026
Since January 1, 2016, all auto insurers licensed in Ontario must offer a winter tire discount. It is the only Canadian province to have legislated this. The average discount reaches 5%, or approximately $90 to $130 per year for a typical Ontario driver. Here’s how to ensure you qualify.
What Ontario law says
Section 227 of the Insurance Act, amended by Regulation 664, requires each Ontario auto insurer to document a discount when the vehicle is equipped with four winter tires marked with the « snowflake on three-peak mountain » logo (3PMSF). The discount is at the insurer’s discretion, but typically ranges between 2 and 5%.
How to activate the discount with your insurer
Three simple steps:
- Install four certified 3PMSF winter tires between November 1 and April 1 (the exact period varies by insurer).
- Document the installation: garage invoice or retailer receipt specifying brand, model, size.
- Declare the change to your broker or directly to the insurer’s customer service. The discount is applied prorated for the remainder of the policy period, then renewed each year.
How much you save in practice
On an average Ontario auto premium of $1,872/year (FSRA 2026 data), a 5% discount represents $94. Over 10 years, that’s $940 recovered — the equivalent of a premium set of tires. Quick comparison by city:
- Brampton ($2,700) → $135/year
- Toronto ($2,100) → $105/year
- Ottawa ($1,400) → $70/year
- Kingston ($1,250) → $63/year
Pitfalls to avoid
- All-season vs 3-season tires — only tires marked 3PMSF are eligible. An M+S tire alone is not sufficient.
- Two winter tires — the insurer requires all four; installing only two voids the discount and compromises safety (oversteer/understeer).
- Retroactive discount — if you forget to declare it, most insurers reimburse only the current year; document early.
Frequently asked questions
Is the discount mandatory with all Ontario insurers?
Yes, the law requires it to be offered; the amount remains at each company’s discretion (2 to 5%).
Is it available in Quebec?
No, the discount is not legislated there. Some Quebec insurers offer it by internal policy, but nothing compels them to.
Do tires need to be changed at a certified garage?
No. A retailer invoice or even purchase receipts for the 4 tires are sufficient. The insurer may request proof in the event of a winter claim.
Does the discount apply to SUVs and pickup trucks?
Yes, same for light commercial vehicles. Note: M+S all-season tires on SUVs do not qualify for the discount.
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