Traffic is at its peak in Quebec’s auto mechanic shops. It takes up to three weeks to get an appointment for a tire change in some garages in the Capitale-Nationale region, for example.
© Carl Boivin/Radio-Canada
The removal of winter tires has been authorized since March 15 in Quebec.
The Desharnais tires and mechanics garage in Quebec was operating at full speed on Saturday morning.
Dozens of customers lined up to hope to have a place by leaving their car there for a few hours.
The removal of winter tires has been authorized since March 15 in Quebec.
For the past week, people have taken us by storm. We must think about making our appointment in advance or having the flexibility to leave the car“, indicated the vice-president of the garage Desharnais tires and mechanics, Mélanie Desharnais.
Clients will have to wait approximately three weeks for an appointment at a fixed time.
I made my appointment in March […] to be sure to have my place“, reported a customer.
Another had to get up early: I was there at 6:45 this morning. There were already six, seven people ahead. Get picked up early if you want a walk-in!»
Supply chain
Procuring new tires also requires planning ahead as supply chains are slowing down.
The problem causes unpleasant situations for certain types of sometimes more luxurious vehicles with slightly more specific dimensions. We will have a little less choice. In this case, it is necessary to take a little advance“, specified Ms. Desharnais.
Prices have also increased for most models.
The increase in the price of gasoline and transportation costs, the lack of labor and the slowdown caused by the pandemic are all factors responsible for this increase.