Every autumn, the same question returns: When is the right time to switch to winter tires? Some people rush to change them as soon as it gets chilly, while others wait until the first snowflakes fall. But timing matters — both for your safety and your wallet.
Let’s explore the real answer, backed by facts, weather insights, and everyday examples.
In Germany, there’s a simple rule that almost everyone knows:
👉 “Von O bis O” — from October to Easter.
That means you should install winter tires in October and keep them on until Easter (usually around April). This period covers the months when temperatures often drop below 7°C — the threshold at which summer tires start losing grip.
However, this is only a guideline, not a strict law. Weather can change fast — especially in mountainous or northern regions.
Winter tires are made from a softer rubber compound that stays flexible in cold weather. Once temperatures fall below 7°C, summer tires become harder, reducing grip and increasing braking distances.
👉 Example: At 0°C on wet roads, a car with winter tires stops up to 8 meters shorter than one with summer tires — that’s roughly the length of two parked cars!
In Germany, winter tires are mandatory in certain conditions, not based on fixed dates. According to §2 Abs. 3a StVO, drivers must use M+S (Mud and Snow) or 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) tires during winter conditions — meaning snow, ice, slush, or frost.
❌ If you’re caught driving on summer tires during icy conditions, you could face:
So the smart approach? Don’t wait for snow — prepare early.
If you live in southern Germany, especially in Bavaria or the Alps, black ice and early snow are common. Switch by late September or early October. For northern cities like Hamburg or Bremen, mid to late October is often fine.
👉 Always check your local forecast — your weather site can show weekly temperature trends and warnings.
The secret lies in:
These differences are why a good winter tire feels “soft” when pressed with your hand — that flexibility is what keeps you safe.
Anna drives daily from Munich to her office near Garmisch. Last October, she delayed her tire change because the weather seemed fine. One foggy morning, she hit black ice on a shaded road. Her car slid — luckily, no damage, but a big scare.
Since then, she changes her tires every first week of October. Better safe than sorry — especially in unpredictable German autumns.
Even if your tires look fine, rubber ages. Tires older than six years harden and lose performance — even with enough tread depth. Always check the DOT number on the tire sidewall — it shows the week and year of manufacture (e.g., DOT 4219 = 42nd week of 2019).
Store your off-season tires in a cool, dark, and dry place, ideally laid flat or hung on rims. Some garages offer storage services for a small fee — worth it for the convenience.
Cold weather lowers tire pressure. Check and adjust it at least once a month — low pressure increases fuel consumption and reduces safety. If your car has a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), reset it after switching tires.
If you live in mild regions or drive mainly in cities, all-season tires can be a smart alternative. They combine elements of summer and winter tires — saving you the hassle of seasonal changes.
Look for the 3PMSF symbol — that ensures they meet legal winter standards.
Changing tires might feel like a chore, but it’s a small investment for safety. Switch early, not late. A simple rule: when you start wearing your winter jacket — your car should too. 🧥🚗❄️
So this autumn, check the weather, book your garage appointment, and drive confidently into winter!