When should you switch to winter tyres? Rules and tips

What do the rules say?

In Sweden, winter tyres are required in wintry road conditions during the winter period, which in practice runs from December to March. Winter tyres also have a minimum permitted tread depth. Studded tyres may be used during the winter season, and outside it when there are wintry road conditions.

Exact dates and requirements may change – always check the current rules with Transportstyrelsen (the Swedish Transport Agency).

Studded or non-studded?

Studded tyres grip best on black ice and suit drivers who do a lot of country-road driving in northern Sweden. Friction tyres (non-studded) are quieter, cause less road wear and are permitted on streets where studded tyres are banned in some cities. Ask the garage what suits your driving.

Book in good time

Garages are busiest when the first snow falls. Post a request a few weeks in advance and you will get prices and times from several garages – often cheaper than if you call when everyone else does.

Tyre hotel

Many garages offer a tyre hotel (tyre storage service). They store and wash your wheels, check tread depth and damage, and remind you when it is time to switch. It saves storage space and heavy lifting.

Check the tyres yourself

• Tread depth: measure in several places – wear can be uneven.
• Age: tyres harden over the years and grip less well, even if the tread looks fine.
• Damage: cracks, bulges and nails in the tyre should be dealt with immediately.
• Tyre pressure: check after the change and then regularly as the weather turns cold.

Frequently asked questions