Safety in Winter: Why Winter Tires Are the Better Choice Even Without Snow

There are many assessments circulating about winter tires: They are only useful on snow, have a loud rolling noise, and increase fuel consumption. So more disadvantages than advantages?

When there is snow, it is clear to most drivers: Now you need winter tires. But the winter tires are also the better choice on open roads at cool temperatures. | Photo: Dietmar Fund
When there is snow, it is clear to most drivers: Now you need winter tires. But the winter tires are also the better choice on open roads at cool temperatures. | Photo: Dietmar Fund

The GTÜ Society for Technical Inspection mbH is getting to the bottom of the issue. Here’s a conclusion upfront: In cool temperatures, winter tires have clear advantages compared to summer tires and are definitely recommended—whether it’s snowy or not.

1. Do winter tires only help in snow? That’s not true. The rubber compounds of winter tires are developed for cold temperatures and are softer. As soon as the thermometer falls below seven degrees Celsius, they play to their advantages. This is because summer tires harden at low temperatures and have poorer grip, even on dry roads. Conversely, using winter tires in summer is not a good idea. At higher temperatures, they show glaring weaknesses, especially when braking on dry roads.

2. Do winter tires wear out faster? Whether winter tires are subjected to more wear than summer tires also depends on the temperatures. If they are around seven degrees Celsius or below, these tires do not wear out faster. At higher temperatures, they lose tread more quickly due to the softer rubber compounds.

3. Do winter tires increase fuel consumption? The softer rubber compound and the coarser tread profile do indeed increase rolling resistance a bit and thus consumption. The sometimes higher weight of a winter tire also takes a small toll. However, due to the constantly advancing tire development, these factors hardly affect the fuel bill. Always important in terms of the lowest possible fuel consumption is the correct air pressure.

4. Are narrow winter tires better than wide tires in snow? That depends on the weather conditions. In heavy snow, narrow tires offer better traction because they exert more pressure on the contact area between the road and the vehicle. Additionally, the risk of aquaplaning is reduced. However, as soon as the roads are snow-free, wider tires have advantages in terms of stability and cornering grip. However, a set of narrow tires is significantly cheaper and also offers advantages in fuel consumption and comfort. Also, be cautious: Snow chains cannot be fitted to all wide winter tires.

5. Is high speed not possible with winter tires? It used to be that way. Today, high speeds are indeed permitted. The compliant maximum speed can be read on the tire sidewall. For example, with the widely used tire size 205/55 R16 91 H, the "H" indicates the permissible maximum speed, which in this case is 210 km/h. If the engine power allows for a higher speed, a sticker must be placed in the driver's field of vision, reminding that the tires should not be loaded beyond their permissible speed. It can go even faster: "V" winter tires are approved for 240 km/h. If it is a "W," they can even be driven at 270 km/h.

6. Are winter tires louder? They have a coarser and deeper tread pattern than summer tires. This structure can lead to higher rolling noises. However, the development engineers of tire manufacturers have done great work here as well: Noise differences compared to summer tires are often hardly noticeable. Those who want to know exactly can pay attention to the tire classification, which is indicated by a colored label or the technical data. Since May 1, 2021, an ABC classification applies. A stands for the least rolling noise, C for the loudest. Often the volume measurement in decibels (dB) is included.

7. Are winter tires recognized by the "M+S" marking? Some all-season or winter tires bear the "M+S" symbol. This means nothing to the legislator. Since 2018, new winter and all-season tires must be marked with the "Alpine" symbol, a mountain pictogram with a snowflake. As of October 1, 2024, older winter and all-season tires with the M+S marking, but without the "Alpine" symbol, are no longer approved for ice and snow.

8. Obligation to use winter tires between October and Easter? No, this widespread "O to O" rule of thumb is merely a recommendation. If roads are dry or wet, summer tires may also be used in the winter months. In Germany, there is a "situational obligation for winter tires." This involves a weather-dependent use of winter tires. Those who drive with unsuitable tires in "black ice, snow, slush, ice, or frost" (Section 2 Paragraph 3a StVO) not only drastically increase the risk of accidents but also risk a fine. In addition, in the event of an accident with summer tires on snow and ice, the comprehensive insurance can refuse to cover costs. Reason: gross negligence. With the "O to O" rule of thumb, you are literally on the safe side.

Source: GTÜ

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