SPOKANE, Wash. — Overnight snow hit the Inland Northwest, creating slick roads and sending drivers rushing to tire shops for winter tires they should have installed weeks ago.
Tire shops reported overwhelming demand, with some telling customers they face more than a day’s wait for installation.
“How’s it been? Chaos,” said Corey Murphy, owner of North Spokane Perfection Tire.
Murphy’s shop expected to change tires on over 60 cars by day’s end. The rush came after weeks of mild temperatures that made many people forget about winter preparations.
“A lot of people, it wasn’t on their mind until we got the cold. And usually that happens weeks ago. So it’s very condensed. It’s very chaotic in that sense,” Murphy said.
The sudden demand is hurting inventory despite constant tire shipments. Murphy warned that waiting longer means fewer choices and higher costs.
“The sooner the better. That way you have options. Otherwise you might not have the most ideal situation,” he said.
The timing makes things worse since many families are already spending money for Christmas.
“Snow tires and good tires are unfortunately not cheap. And it hurts this time of year with Christmas and all, but it’s definitely a better avenue than having to see your local body shop,” Murphy said.
To find good-priced tires, shop around, check online for stock, compare prices, and call ahead.
“So make sure you have good tires. That is the key to surviving winter and being able to go the speed limit instead of going ten miles an hour in a 45,” Murphy said.
For drivers who can’t afford winter tires right now, drive slowly and leave extra space between cars, even when roads look clear.
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