Frequently asked questions about changing tyres
Here are answers to the questions drivers ask us most often about when to change tyres, the rules behind TyreSwitch and winter tyre laws. For the full background, read our guide on when to change to winter tyres, see the winter tyre laws overview, or learn how TyreSwitch works.
When should I change to winter tyres?
A good rule of thumb is to switch when the average daily temperature settles below about 7 °C, and in any case before the first frost or snow where you drive. TyreSwitch turns this into a personal best window based on your location, the forecast and your driving habits.
What is the 7 degrees rule for winter tyres?
It is a widely used rule of thumb: below roughly 7 °C, the rubber of summer tyres hardens and grips less, while winter tyre compounds stay flexible. TyreSwitch applies it to the rolling 5-day average of the daily mean temperature, so a single cold day does not trigger a change.
Why does TyreSwitch give me an earlier date than my neighbour?
The date depends on your profile. Driving early in the morning or at night, being a novice driver, using mountain roads or mainly rural roads can all move the window earlier.
How reliable are dates more than 10 days ahead?
Beyond the roughly 10-day forecast, TyreSwitch uses climate averages from the last 10 years. These dates are marked as climate-projected estimates and are never labelled "best", so check back as the date gets closer.
What does the black-ice warning mean?
It appears when the forecast shows precipitation on a day with a minimum temperature between −2 °C and +2 °C. These are typical conditions for black ice, so if you are still on summer tyres, it is a strong signal to switch soon and drive carefully.
When should I book the workshop?
We suggest booking 7 to 10 days before your best window starts. Tyre fitters get very busy around the first cold spell, so booking early helps you switch on time.
Do I need to change all-season tyres?
No. All-season tyres do not need a seasonal change. TyreSwitch only shows a warning if heavy snow is forecast or if you regularly drive on mountain roads.
Are winter tyres mandatory in Europe?
It depends on the country. Some set fixed periods, some require winter tyres only in wintry conditions, some apply rules in mountain areas or on signposted roads, and some have no requirement at all. See our winter tyre laws overview and always check the current local rules.
When should I change back to summer tyres?
When the 5-day average temperature stays above about 7 °C and the last frost and snow are behind you. Waiting more than three weeks after that means your winter tyres wear faster and brake less well than summer tyres would.
How deep should the tread on winter tyres be?
Legal minimums vary by country, often 1.6 mm, but grip on snow and slush drops well before that. Many tyre makers and motoring organisations recommend replacing winter tyres at around 4 mm.
Is TyreSwitch legal advice?
No. TyreSwitch gives a weather-based recommendation and separate summaries of legal rules for general information only. Always check the current local rules and adapt your driving to actual conditions.
Do I need an account, and where is my data stored?
There is no account. Your driving profile is stored only in your browser's localStorage, and location and forecast lookups pass through our API without being stored beyond short-lived caching.