FAQ – Common questions about tyres

Here we have gathered the most common questions about tyres, from how to choose the right tyre size to the difference between studded and friction tyres. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, you are welcome to contact us at info@statusfalgar.se or +46 852705264.

How do you choose the right tyre size?

The starting point is always the car's original dimension. You will find it in the service book, on a sticker inside the driver's door or in the registration document. The tyre size is given as a measurement, for example 225/45R17, where the figure after the R gives the rim diameter in inches, the first figure is the width in millimetres and the middle figure is the tyre's height as a percentage of the width. Enter your registration number on our site and the right dimensions are shown straight away.

What is the difference between summer tyres and winter tyres?

Summer tyres are made from a harder rubber compound optimised for warm temperatures; they give better road grip, lower rolling resistance and quieter running on warm tarmac. Winter tyres have a softer rubber compound that stays flexible below 7 degrees, plus a tread with more sipes for better grip on snow and ice. Never run summer tyres when the temperature falls below 7 degrees – the grip deteriorates dramatically.

What is the difference between studded tyres and friction tyres?

Studded tyres have metal studs that give maximum grip on sheet ice, best for anyone who drives a lot in northern Sweden or on unploughed roads. Friction tyres use a softer rubber compound and an aggressive tread for grip on snow and ploughed ice, and are quieter on bare tarmac. Studded tyres dominate in the north while friction tyres are most common in southern Sweden and city traffic.

When should I change to winter tyres?

The rule of thumb is when the temperature settles below 7 degrees, and in Sweden winter tyres are required by law in winter road conditions. Change in good time before the cold arrives, not once the first snow has already fallen. On a heavy vehicle such as a pickup or van it is all the more important not to leave it too late – the braking distance on summer tyres in the cold is considerably longer than most people think.

When should I change to summer tyres?

When the temperature settles above 7 degrees, often around Easter in southern Sweden and somewhat later further north. Below 7 degrees a summer tyre's rubber compound starts to harden and lose grip, whether or not there is snow or ice on the road. Do not change too early if you live in northern Sweden or if there is a risk of late snowfall.

What does the 3PMSF marking on a tyre mean?

3PMSF – three peaks and a snowflake – means the tyre has been tested and approved for winter driving under the European standard. It is a requirement for the tyre to count as a winter tyre under Swedish rules. Every winter tyre we sell meets this requirement. Note that an M+S marking without 3PMSF is not enough to qualify as a winter tyre in Sweden.

What is the load index and why does it matter?

The load index states how much weight a tyre can carry per wheel. Index 91, for example, means the tyre can carry 615 kg. On pickups and vans it matters all the more that the load index meets the vehicle's load requirements; never choose tyres with a lower index than the original. It is not just a technical detail, it affects safety directly.

What is the speed rating on a tyre?

The speed rating states the maximum speed the tyre is approved for, given as a letter. Common ratings are H (210 km/h), V (240 km/h) and W (270 km/h). Always choose at least the same speed rating as the original tyre, since anything lower can affect both your insurance and road safety.

Can I run winter tyres all year round?

It is not recommended. Winter tyres have a softer rubber compound that wears faster on warm tarmac, and they give poorer road grip, higher fuel consumption and more noise in summer. Change to summer tyres when the temperature settles above 7 degrees; you save money in the longer run and get better handling.

How long do tyres last?

Summer tyres normally last 4–6 years or around 40,000–60,000 km depending on driving style and care. Winter tyres last somewhat less thanks to their softer rubber compound. Check the tread depth regularly and watch for signs of cracking; the rubber ages even if the tread depth still looks good. We recommend replacing summer tyres at 3 mm and winter tyres at 4 mm of tread depth.

What is the difference between AT tyres and MT tyres for a pickup?

All-Terrain (AT) is an all-rounder that works well both on the road and in light terrain, and is the most popular choice for pickup owners. Mud-Terrain (MT) is more aggressive with a deeper tread optimised for rough terrain such as mud and gravel, but is noisier and worse on ordinary roads. If you mostly drive tarmac with some gravel roads, AT is the right choice. If you regularly drive in rough terrain, MT is the obvious one.

Do I need C-rated tyres on my van?

It depends on the variant and gross weight. Heavy vans such as the Mercedes Sprinter and Volkswagen Transporter need C (commercial) tyres, or tyres with a high enough load index. Passenger car tyres are not approved even if the dimension looks correct. The Volkswagen Caddy can use passenger car tyres with the right load index in some lighter variants. Enter your registration number on our site and we will show the right options for your particular vehicle.

Can I mix tyre brands on the car?

It is not recommended. Different tyre makes and models have different handling characteristics, which can affect the car negatively, particularly under braking and in corners. Always run the same tyres on the same axle, and preferably the same model on all four wheels for the best handling and safety.

Can I buy complete wheel packages from you?

Yes. Choose a rim on our site and add it to the basket, and suitable tyres are shown automatically. You get a complete, balanced wheel package delivered straight to your door, ready to fit. We offer complete packages for passenger cars, pickups and vans in every common dimension.

How do I contact you if I need help choosing tyres?

You can reach us at info@statusfalgar.se or by telephone on +46 852705264. We will help you find the right tyres and rims for your particular vehicle – whether you drive a compact passenger car, a heavy pickup or a hard-working van.