All-Season Tyres: Tread Depth, Tyre Laws and When to Change Your Tyres

Everything you need to know about all-season tyres, safety, and legal compliance.

Fast Facts

• 🌦️ Climate matters: All-season tyres are ideal for moderate or mild climates, not for extreme winter or summer conditions.

• 🛞 Year-round performance: They’re designed to handle a wide range of road surfaces — dry, wet, or slushy — with solid traction and comfort.

• ⚖️ Compliant and certified: Continental all-season tyres meet international standards and display the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol for legal winter use in most countries.

• 🔍 Regular checks are essential: Monitor your tread depth and tyre pressure to maintain safety and avoid fines.

• 🚗 Convenience and efficiency: Fit them once and drive all year round — no need for seasonal tyre changes if your local weather is moderate.

When should you fit all-season tyres?

All-season tyres can be fitted at any time of the year. They’re designed to perform reliably across changing conditions — offering impressive grip in both summer heat and winter chill, with strong braking performance on dry, wet, and slushy roads.

Continental all-season tyres are particularly well-suited for urban and suburban drivers who experience mild seasonal changes. Their durable compound and optimized tread pattern provide:

• ✅ Excellent year-round traction

• ✅ Reduced rolling resistance for better fuel economy

• ✅ Smooth, quiet driving comfort

• ✅ High mileage and long service life

If your local climate doesn’t involve severe snow, ice, or extreme heat, all-season tyres can be a smart, time-saving, and cost-effective choice.

💡 Tip: For drivers who face harsh winter conditions or regular freezing temperatures, switching to dedicated winter tyres (October–April) and summer tyres (April–September) remains the safest option.

What defines a “moderate climate”?

A moderate climate is one where:

• Temperatures rarely drop below 0°C

• Snow and ice occur occasionally, not regularly

• Roads are generally clear and well-maintained during winter

In these conditions, all-season tyres deliver consistent performance — combining the flexibility of winter tyres with the responsiveness of summer tyres.

However, if you regularly encounter heavy snow, ice, or extreme cold, seasonal tyres remain the better and safer choice.

Unsure about your region’s conditions?
Contact your local tyre dealer for tailored advice on the best tyre type for your area and driving habits.

Know your local tyre laws

Before hitting the road, make sure your tyres comply with local winter regulations — especially if you plan to travel across borders.

All Continental all-season tyres proudly display the 3PMSF symbol (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) on the sidewall.
This mark certifies that the tyre:

• Meets strict EU, UNECE, and international standards for snow performance

• Is approved for winter driving in most European countries

• Eliminates the need for seasonal tyre swaps in regions with mild winters

That said, laws vary by country, and some regions enforce specific rules around minimum tread depth, tyre type, or mandatory winter equipment.

⚠️ Always double-check the local winter tyre regulations for your country or travel destination.
This ensures you stay compliant, safe, and avoid potential fines.

Why tread depth matters on all-season tyres

Your tyres are the only contact point between your vehicle and the road — and tread depth is critical to maintaining that connection.

The tread channels water, slush, and snow away from the tyre surface, helping prevent aquaplaning and maintaining traction during braking and cornering. As tread wears down, safety decreases.

Key tread depth recommendations

• Legal minimum: 1.6 mm in most European countries

• Recommended minimum: 3 mm for optimal grip and braking, especially in wet or cold weather

• Check frequency: At least once a month

To check tread depth:

1. Use a tread depth gauge or a coin test.

2. Inspect the tread wear indicators (small raised bars inside the grooves).

3. If the tread is level with the wear bar, it’s time to replace your tyres.

🔍 Continental Tip: Inspect all four tyres — including the spare — and check for uneven wear, cracks, or bulges, which could indicate pressure issues or wheel misalignment.

How to stay safe and compliant year-round

To get the best performance from your all-season tyres:

• Maintain the recommended air pressure (check every 2–4 weeks).

• Keep an eye on tread wear and replace tyres before reaching the legal minimum.

• Ensure your tyres display the 3PMSF symbol for winter compliance.

• Consult local tyre laws before driving abroad in winter.

• Schedule a professional inspection before each new season for peace of mind.

The bottom line

All-season tyres offer convenience, versatility, and safety for drivers in moderate climates.
They provide the perfect balance between performance and practicality — keeping you in control on dry, wet, or light winter roads throughout the year.

However, remember:

• They’re not a substitute for winter tyres in extreme cold

• Regular tread and pressure checks are vital for optimal safety

• Always verify your local tyre laws when travelling

With the right maintenance and awareness, Continental all-season tyres will keep you confidently on the road — in every season.