09/01/2026
Attention all those wanting to use the winter tire program, please see the letter below, provided to me today Sept 1, 2026
Dear Winter Tire Program Retailer,
In accordance with the Winter Tire Program Agreement and Business Rules, Manitoba Public Insurance is updating the tire eligibility requirements for the Winter Tire Program.
Please review the attached updated Winter Tire Program Business Rules and ensure that all staff involved in selling, invoicing, or setting up Winter Tire Program financing are familiar with the changes to tire eligibility and have access to the most current version.
What is changing?
Effective October 1, 2026, only true winter tires will be eligible for financing through the Winter Tire Program. To qualify, a tire must:
Display the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol; and
Be designed and marketed exclusively for winter driving conditions, including snow and/or ice.
The following tire types will no longer be eligible, even if they display the 3PMSF symbol:
All-weather tires
All-season tires
Four-season tires
Year-round tires
Any tire marketed or promoted for continuous year-round use
Why is this change being made?
This change realigns the program with its original safety intent and helps ensure customers receive the full winter-driving safety benefits associated with dedicated winter tires.
What does this mean for retailers?
Effective October 1, 2026, retailers are responsible for ensuring that only eligible tires are submitted for Winter Tire Program financing.
To support financing approval, invoices must clearly identify the tire being purchased and indicate that it is a winter tire, as defined above. Providing detailed and accurate tire descriptions will assist in verifying eligibility.
Loans submitted for ineligible tires may not be approved for financing under the program. Retailers are responsible for ensuring that products and services offered through the Winter Tire Program comply with all eligibility requirements outlined in the Business Rules.
Existing loans
This change applies only to loans established on or after October 1, 2026. Existing loans, and loans established before October 1, 2026, will continue under the eligibility requirements in effect at the time the loan was approved.
If you have any questions regarding the updated eligibility requirements, please contact [email protected].
Thank you for your continued participation in the Winter Tire Program and for your support in helping improve road safety for Manitobans.
Sincerely,
Balex Kabamba
Customer Product Design and Special Programs
