When the snow starts falling, what does that mean? Well, if you’re like many Canadians, it means you should have had your winter tires installed last week. Winter tires are critical for safe driving in snowy and cold conditions.
If you’ve been searching, “Winter tires near me”, “What are the best winter tires?”, “Where to get winter tires Smithville”, or something similar, we can help. Downtown Auto Specialist puts safety first, and that means we know the importance of good tires. Here’s what you need to know about them.
If you need a new set, or your first set, of winter tires and you live in the Smithville area of Ontario, then come over to Downtown Auto Specialist. We have a wide array of winter tires for sale. Our expert technicians can recommend one or more types of tires for your type of vehicle and driving preferences. But why do you need winter tires in the first place?
Many Canadian drivers try to drive on all-season tires throughout winter. At Downtown Auto Specialist, we strongly advise against this. Despite their name, all-season tires aren’t suitable for driving in all seasons, so it’s not safe to use them in winter.
People sometimes call winter tires “snow tires”, but this is not the best name for them. Winter tires can handle snow, which is important, but what’s even more important, they can handle cold weather. All-season tires can’t provide sufficient traction when the temperature drops below seven degrees Celsius.
In Smithville, the average daily high in November is just over seven degrees. This means that for most hours in November, the temperature is below seven. Even before a single snowflake falls, the efficacy of your all-season or summer tires is already significantly reduced in a place like Smithville. That’s why it’s critical to switch to winter tires in late October or early November to ensure both your safety and the safety of others.
Tire manufacturers make winter tires out of different rubber compounds and create special tread patterns, designs, and siping so these tires can provide traction even in extreme cold. The tire experts at Downtown Auto Specialist can recommend the best winter tires for your vehicle. Different vehicles, such as front-wheel or rear-wheel drive, require different types of tires.
Some Canadians drive on all-weather tires during winter. Is this safe? Yes. All-weather tires are not the same as all-seasons. All-weathers are embossed with the snowflake pictogram, meaning they’re rated for winter driving in Canada.
There’s no need to keep searching for the best winter tires near you if you’re in the Smithville area of Ontario. Just come to Downtown Auto Specialist. We are proud to offer the best tires available for sale.
To book an appointment to have winter tires installed on your vehicle, please click here. If you want to learn more about tires, or about any of our products or services, please get in touch with us via our website or call us at 905-529-2833.
Very warm and accommodating. Authentic and honest people. Accessibility with communication is fantastic. Time efficiency is awesome. Their reports are very thorough, which I appreciate. Definitely a new loyal customer!
Samantha Hatfield Dec 4, 2025
My go to garage for tire changes, tuneups, oil changes, and everything in between including that one time I got stuck on ice and messed up the front of my car. I’ve been going to them for years and see no reason that will ever change! Thanks guys.
George P. Dec 2, 2025
I have been going here for over 2 years and I’m never dissatisfied. The employees are VERY friendly and helpful! They aren’t pushy and explain everything to you
Lyndsey Fletcher Aug 30, 2023
Mike and his crew do excellent work. They are very thorough with their diagnosis, and entirely dependable. Do not hesitate to use Downtown Auto Specialists.
Kate Storey Ed Maguire Nov 18, 2025
Was recommended here from a friend and I am so glad! Amazing service! Made me feel so in the loop with my car and the required repairs/repairs that could wait a while. Also an amazing price to get my brakes done! Thanks again Brian!
leah park Nov 10, 2025
Outstanding service. I have a Japanese right hand drive so I had to source the parts myself (don’t order from Yoshi Parts!), and once that was done I researched where I’d get it serviced. Work was done on time and on budget. I can’t recommend this place enough.
Oliver Knutton Oct 6, 2025
Friendly and fast service! I had a flat tire in the middle of the day and needed to drive to Waterloo for an appointment. These folks kindly set aside their lunch to take time to fix the tire so I wasn't late!
Reuben Janzen-Martin Sep 27, 2025
Been going to Downtown auto Specialists for 30 years,always professional and fair. I am a backyard Mechanic myself and anytime I get stumped or do not have the proper tools and a lift they get it. I have sent them a couple of nightmare jobs,lol, and they solve the problem every time. Nothing but positive experiences over the years.Only ever charged for actual time spent on vehicle. Top if off, they are really decent people,friendly and honest. Highly recommend.
John MacDonald Sep 16, 2025
You want honest mechanics who get the job done at a fair price. This is the place to go.
Tammy Levely Jul 31, 2025
Amazing service
Tyler Dillane Jul 29, 2025
Great service, great staff. Definitely recommend.
Pat Hayes May 23, 2025
If you are looking for great mechanics and customer service, bring your vehicle to Downtown Auto specialist. Mike and Brian and their staff will take good care of you and your vehicle. I highly recommend this. Dave Farrington
Nicole Farrington Apr 10, 2025
Awesome place, very welcoming and just the best place to go. Thanks again fellas, stay classy. Sincerely the tattoo guy.
ColdBloodFTW Apr 2, 2025
The staff was very friendly and all of the repairs were done perfectly.
Lilita Boden Oct 20, 2022
Wonderful auto center and high quality operations - - Called to get my tires changed on my Lexus sedan at the same day. - Inspection comes with a clear and comprehensive report with pictures that shows which component was replaced and the rest of items are good to go.
Rong Du Mar 12, 2025
The BEST in town! Many years of GREAT services.
McGraa M Feb 14, 2025
Really happy I found these guys! Super friendly, have been able to accommodate me on short notice & make getting car repairs as least painful as possible. Would recommend to anyone! :)
Deanna Sallach Jan 3, 2025
Professional honest service. I've been there 4 times and twice they didn't charge me due the service being so simple.
Terry Middleton Nov 7, 2024
the best! these guys always have time and are willing to help ASAP when we call! highly recommend!!!
Lesley P Oct 10, 2024
Best place to get your car fixed in the city ..I recommend it to all my friends
francesco Paolozza Dec 4, 2019
Highly knowledgeable, clear, informative & trustworthy. Quick & efficient turnaround & fair pricing. Would definitely recommend!
Max Sep 21, 2024
Not only was every gentleman there kind and patient, they explained everything wrong with my car and included reports. They prioritized the repairs needed and were speedy. Definitely coming back and happy a friend referred me to them.
Tamara Miller Sep 20, 2024
I feel like I won the lottery when I was introduced to Downtown Auto! I’m so grateful to Mike, Kieran, Brian and the other guys looking after our cars. You are beyond thorough and informative when it comes to advising the client what needs to be done immediately, or what can wait. Thanks so much for your awesome friendly service!!
Rosa Crane Sep 12, 2024
Downtown Auto is excellent. They take the time to explain things, provide very helpful reports before and after, are upfront about all costs. Honestly, these guys are so kind and patient when my brain gets a bit shocked about repairs (my car is aging) and they will go through the list and pick the priorities as well as identify items that can wait. Would definitely recommend!!
Michelle L Sep 5, 2024
Top shelf auto repair and excellent customer service. Recently, they solved a tricky air conditioning problem other shops were unable to fix. Thanks!
Stephen Kennedy Aug 29, 2024
I got my car repaired at this place both Brian and Mike were very helpful and efficient in their work, they identified the issue and quickly resolved the issues with my automobile. The services are reliable and trustworthy at a fair price. I highly recommend this business.
Jayanth Diri Aug 24, 2024
5stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Called Bryan yesterday for my Honda fit 2007. Some noise from right side wheelbearing changed, suspension stablerizers, exaust system done in a timely and professionaly maner. Thank you so much Bryan and Mike.
Nicoleta S Aug 16, 2024
I wish I could give Downtown Auto Specialists 6 stars, but 5 is the most that google will permit. I have been taking my car here for nearly five years and have always been impressed with the excellent service provided. Bryan and the team are reliable, thorough, and have helped me out on short notice with a few different car troubles. Cannot recommend Downtown Auto Specialist highly enough.
Ali Maretzk Aug 16, 2024
SUCH A LIFESAVER! I needed a quick repair in Hamilton today and the guys at this auto shop were amazing. Took me in right away, checked the car’s damage (totally not my fault, if anyone asks) and were super friendly, quick and professional. Thank you again for helping me out in a pinch! I’d give ten stars if I could!
B Galati Aug 9, 2024
I had to go back to the specialist (Mike) after long time because I couldn't find better honesty, quality and craftsmanship. And I got to meet his son which father like son. Thank you guys
Kamal Ayyoub Aug 8, 2024
I've been going to Mike and Brian for the past 8 years, he was recommended from my son. After an accident to no fault of anyone's. Mike and Brian stepped up to the plate beyond our expectations to rectify the situation at a fast timely manner. Not only did they go above and beyond to make the situation as stress free as possible. My vechile came out in better shape then what I brought it in as. I couldn't be happier with the experience I received. They will always have our buisness Don and Lorraine.
Christa Beres Jul 31, 2024
I was having a problem with my 2017 Ford Escape going into "deep sleep mode". I went to the Escape forum where there were a lot of complaints, but not very good results from Ford. I took it down to Downtown auto where Mike told me he would find the cause. It took 2 days to find it, but they succeeded. The cause was an 80 amp circuit that feeds an electric heater in the air conditioner that wasn't in any info that they could find. Mike was very diligent and focused on the problem and I was grateful of the job they did. I highly recommend Downtown Auto to all my friends.
George1234 Jul 22, 2024
I have been going to Downtown Auto for over eight years now and couldn’t be happier with their service, advice and quick appointment booking. Mike and Bryan are friendly, easy to talk to & professional. They offer suggestions to help you make your car operate at its best & last longer. Their prices are fair and their service second to none. I highly recommend them.
Laurence Mongeau Jul 17, 2024
Been to Downtown Auto Service several times in the past. Bryan and the shop guys have always been top notch for my needs. Bryan the shop Mgr is very pleasant, knowledgeable and realistic about my cars needs and only does what's necessary; something we all appreciate! Thanks guys!
dan krouse Jul 2, 2024
Mike and his incredible team at Downtown Auto Specialist have truly set the bar high for automotive service in Hamilton. From the moment you step into their welcoming downtown location on John Street South, you can feel the difference. Convenience is key for us, and having such a dependable auto service center right in the heart of the city is a game-changer. From oil changes to tire rotations, and even those more serious, nail-biting repairs, we always know our vehicles are in the best hands with Hamilton's finest automotive specialists. Mike and his crew consistently provide top-notch service that is both friendly and understanding. They truly listen to their customers, making sure they understand every detail of the service being provided. This level of care and communication is something you don't find everywhere, and it's something we deeply appreciate. The prices at Downtown Auto Specialist are incredibly reasonable. We never feel like we're being oversold or pressured into unnecessary services. Mike and his team offer honest and good advice on what work should be done, which is refreshing in an industry where upselling can be all too common. This integrity and honesty have earned our trust and loyalty over the years. As a family, it's important to us that our vehicles are safe and reliable. With a small daughter to think about, we need to be certain that our cars are in the best possible condition. Knowing that Mike and his team are looking after our vehicles gives us immense peace of mind. Whether it's my car, my wife's car, or even when family and friends need a recommendation, Downtown Auto Specialist is our go-to place. One of the most impressive aspects of this shop is the atmosphere. It's clear that Mike fosters a positive and supportive work environment for his employees, and it shows in the service they provide. Everyone there seems genuinely happy to help, and their passion for their work is evident. It's not just about fixing cars for them; it's about building relationships and ensuring their customers leave satisfied and safe. In conclusion, Downtown Auto Specialist is hands down the best place in Hamilton for all your automotive needs. Mike and his amazing employees have created a haven of honesty, reliability, and friendly service. We couldn't be happier with the care our vehicles receive, and we're so grateful to have such a fantastic auto specialist in our community. If you want top-quality service with a smile and a team you can trust, look no further than Downtown Auto Specialist. They truly are Hamilton's finest! Thank you, Mike and the entire team, for your exceptional service. We'll be back again and again!
The Bombsters Jun 12, 2024
The staff are amazing and super friendly. The work was done quickly and within my budget. There is no pressure on work not needed right away. I will be taking my car there for all my repairs! Thank you Marina
Marina Chiasson Jun 10, 2024
I am extremely impressed with the high level of courtesy and professionalism I experienced at Downtown Auto. My car and I were in a difficult jam, and these gentlemen helped out enormously. This was my first time at Downtown Auto but I will be returning. 2024 Update: Still the best!
David T Mar 11, 2021
I’ve been a steady customer for 20+ years and have never been disappointed. Mike and his team have always been friendly, trustworthy, accurately diagnose and provide options when needed. Wouldn’t think of taking my car elsewhere!
Silvia Aarlaht May 9, 2024