Seasonal tire changes are essential for driving safely throughout the year in Waterloo, ON. Whether you're switching to winter tires as the temperature drops or putting on summer tires when the roads clear, knowing the difference between on-rim and off-rim tire changes can help you make the right decision for your vehicle.
What Are On-Rim and Off-Rim Tire Changes?
If you’re not familiar with the terms "on-rim" and "off-rim," you’re not alone. These tire change methods refer to how the tires are swapped during seasonal transitions:
On-Rim Tire Change
This involves replacing the entire wheel assembly, including the tire and rim. If you have a dedicated set of tires already mounted on rims (for example, winter tires on their own rims), an on-rim change allows for quick and easy swapping. This method is ideal for those who want minimal downtime and quick installation.
An on-rim tire change is the best choice if you:
- Have a second set of rims for your seasonal tires (e.g., dedicated rims for winter and summer tires).
- Want a faster, more convenient service with less labor.
- Want to reduce wear and tear on your rims by avoiding frequent tire mounting and unmounting.
Off-Rim Tire Change
In an off-rim tire change, the tires are removed from the rims and replaced with new tires or a different set for the season. This is a more labor-intensive process, as the technician must unmount the old tires and mount the new ones on the same rims. Off-rim changes are often used by drivers who don’t want to invest in a second set of rims or when replacing worn-out tires.
An off-rim tire change may be the right option if you:
- Use one set of rims year-round and only swap out the tires.
- Want to save money by not purchasing a second set of rims.
- Are replacing worn tires with new ones.
How Often Should I Get an Off-Rim Tire Change
Typically, off-rim tire changes should be done at least twice a year—once when switching to winter tires in the fall and again when switching back to summer or all-season tires in the spring. At Lexington Auto Service, we recommend monitoring your tire condition and scheduling changes based on the season to ensure safe and efficient driving.
When it comes to tire changes, you want a team you can trust to handle your vehicle with care. Lexington Auto Service is part of the Columbia Auto Group, a family business that has been serving the Kitchener-Waterloo area for multiple decades and counting. Our location, which opened in 2022, is equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment to ensure your vehicle is well taken care of.
With ASE and EV-certified technicians, we provide industry-leading service that you can rely on. We offer a 2-year/40,000 km warranty on all qualified services, along with free shuttle service and loaner cars, to ensure you have a fantastic experience.
Lexington Auto Service is your trusted partner for tire services in Waterloo. Please do not hesitate to call us today to schedule your seasonal tire change or visit us to chat about our full range of tire services.