When the temperature drops below 7 °C, it is recommended that you change to winter tyres. As a rule, the switch to winter tyres is done during the autumn school holidays.
In this post, you will find answers to your questions about winter tyres. You will also find information on offers for tyre and wheel changes, so you can get safely through the winter at the right price.
What is the difference between winter tyres and summer tyres - and why switch to winter tyres?
Summer tyres are tough and as winter approaches and temperatures drop, colder temperatures make the rubber on your summer tyres even harder. This extends your car’s braking distance because summer tyres are not sufficiently slip-proof when used in winter conditions.
Winter tyres are made of a softer rubber compound with a higher content of natural rubber. This makes them more flexible and gives them much better grip at low temperatures when compared to summer tyres.
The small grooves in winter tyres also provide better grip in snow and wet conditions. It reduces the likelihood of slipping and the extra deep tread reduces the risk of aquaplaning. This means that winter tyres offer much greater safety on the roads in winter conditions, which is why it is recommended to switch to winter tyres when the temperature drops below 7 °C.
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Be sure to check the depth of the tyre tread
The tread depth of winter tyres must be at least 4 mm. Therefore, be sure to regularly check whether the tyre tread is still deep enough.
You can easily check the tread depth by monitoring the indicators that are located all around the main tread grooves of the tyre. If the indicators line up with the top of the pattern, it is time to change the tyre.
If you need a tyre change during the winter season, you save on average 63%* by clicking here.
Why not drive with winter tyres in summer?
When temperatures start to warm up again, the soft rubber of winter tyres is no longer an advantage. They wear out much faster than harder summer tyres, meaning you’ll need to replace them more often.
Winter tyres also brake worse in summer and are more unstable, especially in critical situations. Therefore, be sure to switch to summer tyres when the temperature again exceeds 7 °C. In general, car owners switch to summer tyres around Easter.
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How to store winter tyres when not in use
In order for your winter tyres to last as long as possible, it is important to store them correctly. Tyres should be stored in a dry, cool and dark room.
Avoid storing your winter tyres in a garden shed or attic, as these are places where it can get very hot in summer. Before storing them, we advise you to clean them, dry them and check that the tyres and wheels are not damaged.
The average lifespan of a winter tyre is 5 years. If you've used your winter tyres for 5 seasons and stored them properly, it may be time to buy new ones.
Do you need storage for winter tyres? Save on average 63%*on tyre storage with Autobutler.
| Offers | Quotes |
|---|---|
| Tyre storage | Get quotes online |
| Rims | Get quotes online |
Tyre storage without rims
Tyres without rims are best stored stood up, and must be rotated every two weeks.
Tyre storage with rims
Tyres with rims are best stored either stacked or suspended.
Find the best deals on tyre and wheel change with Autobutler
With Autobutler, you can compare the best deals on all types of repairs, from tyre and wheel change to periodic car servicing at garages near you. You can also use our search function to find quality garages near you. This way, you can easily choose the garage that suits you the best.
Currently on Autobutler:
* Save on average 63%* on tyre replacement (all 4 wheels). We disassemble existing wheels, perform a visual inspection of your brakes, mount the wheels you have brought with you and check the tyre pressure.
* If you want new tyres with rims, we can do this too. Get quotes from local garages here. Save time and avoid expensive surprises. Compare quotes and book securely through autobutler.co.uk
| Offer | Quotes |
|---|---|
| Tyre & wheel change | Get quotes online |
