Safely through the cold season with winter tires.

Situational winter tire requirement: In Germany, the so-called situational winter tire requirement applies. In icy conditions such as black ice, snow- or ice-covered surfaces, slush or glazed ice, only vehicles with suitable tires may be on the road. Only tires with the Alpine symbol (mountain pictogram with a snowflake) are permitted. All-season tires with the Alpine symbol are also suitable, but tires with the M+S designation alone are not permitted: their use in winter weather has not been allowed since October 2024. Anyone traveling in winter road conditions with unsuitable tires risks a fine of 60 euros and one point in Flensburg. If it leads to a hindrance or even an accident, higher penalties will be imposed. Important for winter holidays: Those traveling abroad should inquire about the tire rules that apply there.

Safety starts with tire inspection: GTÜ recommends a thorough check of the tires before the winter season.

• Marking: The Alpine symbol must be present.
• Tread depth: Legally required is at least 1.6 millimeters. GTÜ recommends four millimeters to ensure sufficient grip. Reliable analog calipers are available for a few euros. Digital variants make it more convenient.
• Age: From about six years the rubber elasticity decreases; at the latest after eight to ten years tires should be replaced. Orientation is provided by the four-digit DOT code on the tire sidewall. The first two digits stand for the production week and the last two for the year of manufacture.
• Condition: Cracks, bulges, or uneven wear are warning signals – the tire or suspension components could be damaged.
• Tire pressure: Regularly check when cold and set to the value recommended by the manufacturer.
• Fastening: After a tire change, have the wheel bolts re-tightened after a short drive.