Automotive shops in Winnipeg slammed with repairs and tire changes during the city’s first week of snowfall
Posted December 4, 2024 6:51 pm.
Last Updated December 4, 2024 8:42 pm.
Winter weather has arrived in Winnipeg and some automotive shops say they’re preparing for what they say is peak collision season.
Murray Chevrolet Winnipeg is only one shop seeing a surge in demand since the snow dropped.
“I would say this is the busiest time of the year,” said the Murray Chevrolet Collision Centre’s manager Kelly Waddell. “The most important time of the year”
Waddell says it’s not uncommon for collision numbers to climb as people readjust to the winter driving conditions, saying compared to the summer months, they see a 35 per cent increase in damage estimate calls, with roughly 20 coming in daily and he says it’s a trend that’s likely to continue.
“The tow trucks have been coming steadily for the past two weeks,” he said. Adding later: “The mild winters, as nice as they are for us, for cars; they’re not good because the roads get nice and sloppy during the day and then at night they freeze, and it causes the problems.”
And it is not only the body shop feeling the strain, as tire changes are also in high demand, especially this week. Service Manager Craig Hominick says he expects about 50 tire changes daily this season, encouraging drivers to make the change as soon as possible.
“Once weather hits about 7 C all season regular tires lose their ability to grip the road,” he said. “Get your winter tires on as soon as possible. It’s a safety thing for you and your family. I would recommend it; and I know any other shop out there would as well.”
CAA Manitoba is also advising Winnipeggers to get their tires changed, saying it’s important to prepare for winter by checking tire pressure, battery health, fluids, and windshield wipers, saying preparation is key when the temperature plummets.
“I think it’s really important that all drivers pay attention to the road and the conditions of the road,” said Nadia Matos, with CAA Manitoba. “And pay attention to how your vehicle is going to react in those conditions.”
