Switching back to summer tires, and off-season storage

Illustrates the seasonal calendar for switching between summer and winter tires, which is the core of the lesson.

Rule

When to switch back to summer tyres

Switch back to summer tires when daily average temperature stays consistently above +7 °C and snow/ice on roads is fully gone. Typically late April in southern Sweden, mid-May in the north. Legally, studded tires must come off by 15 April, unless actual winter conditions persist.

Checklist

What to check at every swap

Switch to summer tires once weather is consistently warmer, no fixed legal date
Check tread depth: minimum 1.6 mm required by law, replace if worn
Clean winter tires before storage, remove gravel and dirt
Store tires upright or hanging, avoid long-term flat stacking
Store in a cool, dry, dark place, avoid direct sunlight and heat sources
Label tires (position, year) for easier remounting next season

Tip

Storing tyres properly

Storage: cool, dry, dark. Preferably on rims → store upright or hanging. Without rims → flat. UV light and heat age rubber faster. Mark the wheels (L/R front/rear) so you can rotate next season for even wear.

Exam trap

Winter tyres in summer cost more

Don't drive on winter tires all summer to save money. They wear ~30 % faster in heat, grip on dry asphalt is worse, braking distance is longer. False economy.

Switching back to summer tires, and off-season storage

You will learn, among other things:

When to switch back to summer tyres

What to check at every swap

Storing tyres properly

Winter tyres in summer cost more

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