Hi, I got a 99.5 1.8T QTS with the stock SP8000E 205/55/R16 tires (@ 3 weeks old). Just moved to the Toronto area from VA sometime ago and wanted some input on whether I should get snow tires or not, and if so, what's a good recommendation and also where to buy it and have it installed? I have read some of the archives and looks like it would be better to go one size down. Anybody around the Toronto area have any good input?? Thanks...

The major arteries are usually cleaned pretty quickly, ie. the DVP, 427, and the 401 and Gardener. If you plan to drive intercity or to cottage country often then snow tires would be recommended. The 400 and 404 north tend to have a lot of blowing snow as does the 401 West of Kitchener. Hope this helps...

I am not living in Toronto, but I am living in Wisconsin. Same as you, I've got the Dunlop sport tires SP8000E. As you are living in big city, although roads will clear up very fast, but there is a chance to have ICE on the road, even on highway. Also, you can't predict the weather, or you may have chance to driving small roads and packed with snow, do you think you would rather walk than driving?
For those Dunlop tires it got no traction on those ice, but for your safety I think it a good idea to put on snow tires. To insure your $30K car with $500, better pay a few grand for an accident!
I've bought a set of Michelins Artic Alpin last yr, good tires give me lots of confident on snow. I still remember I've drive my A4 at snow storm!! I feel no difficult to driving to anywhere.

FrancisK
98.5 2.8QTipS

I regret to inform you that yes, it is an extremely good idea to get snow tires for the winter. I'm a resident of southern Ontario and have used them for years. Although the SP8000's are an awsome tire, they are designed ONLY for summer use. YOu also have another decision to make as well. You can go with a 205/55-16 on your existing rims and swap them twice a year, or better yet, get some 15" rims an mount 195/65-15's on them. The latter is a much better choice for a multitude of reasons which I'm not going to go into right now. For more info read my posts on the tire forum or E-mail me.

As far as where to go, Wheels Direct (416-754-0997) on Sheepard has by far the best prices. I drove over 200 kms to get my Pirelli 210-A's from Colin. Very good pricing and he can help you with the rims as well. Just tell him Patrick sent you from the A4.org site.