Winter tyres. A guide to the right choice for your car
Winter tyres are designed for temperatures below 7 degrees, and the difference from summer tyres in winter shows clearly in grip, braking distance and control on snow and ice. On this page we go through everything you need to know to choose the right winter tyres for your car. Enter your registration number and we will show you straight away which winter wheels fit.
When should you change to winter tyres?
According to the Swedish Transport Agency, winter tyres are compulsory in Sweden between 1 December and 31 March in winter road conditions – that is, when there is snow, ice, slush or frost on the road. Studded tyres may be used between 1 October and 15 April. As a rule of thumb you should change when the temperature settles below 7 degrees; do not wait until 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.
Different types of winter tyre
Depending on your car and driving style there are several types to choose between. Friction tyres suit most passenger cars: they have good grip on snow and wet tarmac and are quieter and more comfortable on dry roads than studded tyres. They are the most common choice for drivers in southern and central Sweden. Studded tyres are for extremely cold and icy roads, with optimal braking on sheet ice but a somewhat higher noise level on dry tarmac. They dominate in northern Sweden and among those who drive a lot on unploughed roads. SUV and pickup tyres for winter use are often called all-rounders and must carry the 3PMSF marking (the alpine peak and snowflake). These are a compromise for anyone who wants to run the same tyres all year and perhaps does not drive much on icy roads. Choosing tyres with the right load index matters.
How do you choose the right winter tyres?
Three things matter most: the right dimension, the right tread depth and the right type for how you drive. You will find the tyre dimension in the car's handbook or on the marking on your existing tyres, for example 205/55R16. The wrong dimension affects safety and road holding. The tread depth should be at least 5 mm for good safety on snow. The legal minimum for winter tyres is 3 mm, but do not wait until then, since grip deteriorates noticeably before you reach the minimum. Always check that the tyre carries the 3PMSF marking – three peaks and a snowflake – to be certain it is approved as a winter tyre under Swedish rules.
Winter tyres and rims. A combination for performance
The right rims affect how winter tyres perform. Many choose to keep a dedicated set of winter wheels. It saves time at the seasonal change and extends the life of the summer tyres. At Statusfälgar we offer rims from 15 to 24 inches in rugged construction that takes snow, cold and salted roads, matched with the right winter tyres for your car.
Looking after your winter tyres
The right care matters for getting the longest life out of your winter tyres. Check the pressure regularly, since cold air contracts and affects grip. Rotate the tyres between the front and rear axle at regular intervals for even wear. Wash the tyres after winter journeys to remove salt and dirt. Store the summer tyres properly when they are not in use to avoid deformation.