Soon it will be time to change to the winter tires

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Most drivers know that in winter it is necessary to put on winter tires. But when is the best time? First of all: There is no fixed date for changing from summer to winter tires. Rather, this depends on the weather conditions. But there is a rule of thumb. What this is and why it is important not to use summer tires in winter is explained below.

When do winter tires have to be fitted?

The same every year: at the beginning of October, the weather gets worse, so it's time to switch from summer to winter tires. You stay on until about Easter. Therefore, the tried and tested tire changing rule is: From O to O. Statistics show, however, that many drivers act too late. Thousands of road accidents are caused by wrong tires every year. It is therefore important to prepare in advance and to install winter tires. The autumn weather is accompanied by wetness and leaves and it gets colder. These weather conditions create a risk of slipping and extend braking distances. From temperatures of around seven degrees Celsius and below, tires that are suitable for winter perform optimally. Who needs new winter tires, can take a look at ReifenDirekt.de, here there are high-quality products from well-known manufacturers such as Continental, Dunlop or Pirelli. In this online shop it is possible to search directly for the right tires for the respective car model. The vehicle registration document shows which winter tires fit on the car or are required by law. The data can be found on numbers and letters on the vehicle registration certificate and letter.

What are the benefits of winter tires?

It is much safer to drive with winter tires in cold, snow and ice. The material is softer and the profile is deeper than that of summer tires. Therefore, they remain just as soft and flexible in colder temperatures, which gives the car better grip on the road. Thanks to the sipes, the winter tires have a better grip on snow and mud. They have a shorter braking distance, so they offer more safety. There are also drainage grooves in the tread, which drain the water and slush. Since January 2018, only winter tires with the so-called Alpine symbol can be sold (mountain with snowflake). Before that, car tires only had to be marked with "M + S", which stands for mud and snow. These tires can still be used until September 2024. Regarding the profile depth, only 1,6 mm is required by law. But according to experts, this is far too little. They recommend replacing tires with a tread of less than three or four millimeters, as in their opinion the driving and braking behavior is no longer safe enough in winter. Liability decreases, which increases the risk of accidents. Winter tires already lose some of their good winter properties from the age of six. They should be loud when they are older than eight years ADAC Not be. Afterwards the exchange is recommended.

Summary

When it comes to changing from summer to winter tires, the O to O rule applies: This means that winter tires are used from around October to Easter. There is no legal regulation, but drivers are on the safe side, as the ADAC confirms. Of course, the current weather conditions should always be observed. Winter tires are recommended for temperatures below seven degrees. What else do you have to pay attention to when the vehicle is to be made fit for the dark season? The most important information can be found in our winter check.

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