Sambla Group: Time to think about winter tyres – changing in time can save both money and hassle

When temperatures start dropping towards +7°C, it’s time to think about winter tyres. Many drivers wait until the first snowfall, but according to MyMoney – part of Sambla Group – that’s often too late, both from a safety and cost perspective.

Summer tyres begin to lose grip already at +7°C, even on dry roads. This increases both braking distance and fuel consumption. At the same time, workshops and tyre service chains are often quickly fully booked once the cold weather sets in.

“For car owners, this is not just about legal requirements – it’s about avoiding unnecessary stress and uncertainty on the road. By acting early, you gain better control, safer driving, and avoid the last-minute rush when winter suddenly arrives,” says Christoffer Wennolf, Product Specialist at MyMoney.

From 1 December, winter tyres are required in Sweden when winter road conditions are present. But the timing of the swap is not just about legal rules. It’s also about ensuring the car remains safe and reliable in everyday use.

“For many people, the car isn’t optional – it’s essential. It’s how we get to work, pick up children, or manage errands. That means it needs to be safe. Using the right tyres at the right time is a simple way to improve road grip and increase safety for both drivers and passengers,” says Jasmin Svraka, Financial Expert at Sambla Group.

Changing tyres in good time is also about checking that the tyres are in proper condition. According to MyMoney’s tyre guide, winter tyres must have at least 3 millimetres tread depth (the legal requirement), while 5 millimetres provides clearly better grip. Cold temperatures also reduce tyre pressure, which affects both traction and fuel economy.

Choosing the right type of winter tyre is also important. If you regularly drive on icy or untreated roads, studded tyres may be the best choice. In cities, where roads are often salted or mainly slushy, friction (non‑studded) tyres are often more suitable.

Most workshops and tyre service chains – such as Däckia, Mekonomen, and Vianor – offer online booking. Simply enter your registration number to see available times and prices. Many also offer tyre storage services, allowing you to store your summer tyres safely until spring.

A good rule of thumb is to book early, before temperatures fall below +7°C. This helps avoid long waiting times and reduces the risk of driving with the wrong tyres during the season’s first frosty mornings. Remember to check both tyre condition and that all four tyres show even wear.

Finally: Store summer tyres in a cool, dry, and dark place – preferably lying flat if they are without rims. This extends their lifespan and reduces costs over time.

Checklist: Before switching to winter tyres

• Change tyres early: don’t wait for the first snowfall – switch when temperatures drop toward +7°C.
• Book a tyre change appointment in advance to avoid long waits.
• Check tread depth: minimum 3 millimetres, but 5 millimetres is recommended.
• Adjust tyre pressure as temperatures fall.
• Choose the right type: studded for icy roads, friction tyres for city and slush.
• Store summer tyres properly: cool, dry and dark (lying flat if stored without rims).
• Take the opportunity to check brakes, washer fluid and battery while at the workshop.

For more guidance, see MyMoney’s Winter Tyre Guide 2025 (in Swedish)

Winter tyre rules in the Nordic countries

Sweden

• Winter tyres required 1 December–31 March when winter road conditions apply.
• Studded tyres allowed 1 October–15 April, and outside this period if winter conditions are present.
• Minimum tread depth: 3 millimetres for cars.
• Trailers must also have winter tyres under winter road conditions.

Norway

• No fixed date requirement, but the vehicle must always have sufficient grip; winter tyres are effectively necessary during winter.
• Studded tyres permitted 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter; 15 October–1 May in northern regions.
• Some cities (e.g., Oslo, Bergen) may charge a studded tyre fee.
• Minimum tread depth: 3 millimetres, 5 millimetres for heavy vehicles in winter.

Finland

• Winter tyres required 1 November–31 March when weather or road conditions demand.
• Studded tyres allowed 1 November–31 March (Åland: 15 October–15 April).
• Minimum tread depth: 3 millimetres.

Denmark

• No legal obligation for winter tyres, but from 1 July 2025 tyres must be suitable for winter conditions (M+S marked).
• Studded tyres allowed 1 November–15 April.
• Minimum tread depth: 1.6 millimetres.

Iceland

• Winter tyres required 1 November–14 April.
• Studded tyres allowed during the same period.
  

About Sambla Group and MyMoney

Sambla Group is one of the Nordic region’s leading comparison services for loans and insurance. The group helps people understand their financial options and make more informed decisions.
MyMoney, part of Sambla Group, focuses on car ownership. The company provides smart car financing solutions and practical guidance on vehicle maintenance, safety and personal finances. The aim is simple: support long‑term, safe and sustainable car ownership.