What is MPI’s Winter Tire Program?
BY Scott Moore, Realtor | January 9, 2026Manitoba winters are tough and if there is one thing that most Manitoban’s universally agree on, it’s that you need winter tires.
To help make winter driving safer (and easier on the budget), Manitoba Public Insurance offers the Winter Tire Program.
It allows eligible Manitobans to finance up to $2,000 per vehicle at prime + 2% interest, with payments spread over one to four years. The payments come out automatically each month, so once you’re set up, it’s one less thing to think about.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify, it’s pretty straightforward. You need to be an MPI customer (individual, not corporate), own a passenger vehicle or light truck registered in your name, and have no outstanding MPI payments or restrictions. If you’re unsure, a quick check with MPI, a Autopac agent, or a participating retailer can clear that up.
The program covers more than just the tires themselves. Along with approved winter tires, you can include rims, mounting, balancing, alignment, and Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems.
If storage or seasonal switchover is part of the initial purchase, that can be included too, along with nitrogen fill, valve stems, shop supplies, and applicable taxes and fees. You’re also not limited to one retailer, eligible products and services can come from multiple locations.
One thing to keep in mind is what isn’t covered. Tire repairs, ongoing maintenance or storage, and switchover costs aren’t approved unless they’re included in the original purchase price.
When shopping, look for the mountain and snowflake symbol on the tire. Any tire with that symbol is approved for the Winter Tire Program, which makes choosing much easier.
Getting started is simple. Visit a participating retailer, pick out your tires, and bring your driver’s licence and vehicle registration. The retailer will confirm your eligibility and take care of setting up the loan.
If you’re not sure where to begin, your local Autopac agent or a participating retailer can walk you through the process. It’s a simple and affordable way to stay safe and drive with more traction during our cold winters.