Changing Tyres: When and How to Switch for Safer Driving All Year Round

Just as the seasons change, so should your tyres. Switching between summer, winter, and all-season tyres isn’t just about convenience — it’s about safety, performance, and getting the most out of your vehicle.

In this guide, we’ll explain when to change your tyres, what to expect during a tyre change, and why choosing the right set for the season makes all the difference.

When to Change Your Tyres

At first glance, the answer seems obvious — summer tyres in summer, winter tyres in winter.
But there’s a little more to it.

• Summer tyres perform best when temperatures stay above 7°C, offering superior grip, precise handling, and shorter braking distances on both wet and dry roads.

• Winter tyres are designed for below 7°C, providing better traction on snow, ice, and slush thanks to their softer rubber compounds and deeper tread patterns.

• All-season tyres are a convenient compromise, engineered to perform reliably year-round in moderate climates.

🔁 Rule of thumb:
Switch to summer tyres around Easter, and to winter tyres by October — aligning your change with the weather transition, not the calendar.

Why Using the Right Tyres Matters

Driving on the wrong tyres for the season can impact both safety and performance.

For instance:

• Using winter tyres in warm weather increases rolling resistance, meaning more fuel consumption and faster wear.

• Using summer tyres in cold conditions reduces flexibility and grip, increasing braking distances and the risk of losing control.

Each tyre type is formulated with specific rubber compounds to perform optimally within its temperature range — so staying seasonal keeps you safer and saves you money in the long run.

How to Change a Wheel Safely

Need to replace a punctured tyre or change to a different set?
Here’s the safe, step-by-step approach:

1. Park on a flat surface and engage the handbrake.

2. Loosen the wheel nuts slightly while the car is still on the ground.

3. Position the jack under the correct jacking point (refer to your owner’s manual).

4. Lift the car until the tyre clears the ground.

5. Remove the nuts and wheel, and replace with the spare or seasonal wheel.

6. Tighten the nuts by hand, lower the car, then fully tighten them using a torque wrench in a cross pattern.

If you’re unsure or prefer not to do it yourself, most tyre retailers can complete a full set change in about 20 minutes.

💡 Tip: Many garages will also retorque your wheels for free after 30 miles (50 km) of driving — ensuring the nuts are safely secured.

Tyre Rotation and Seasonal Swaps

When switching between seasonal tyres, take the opportunity to rotate your tyres. This means changing their positions (front to rear, left to right) to promote even wear and longer life.

Proper rotation:

• Extends tyre lifespan,

• Maintains consistent traction, and

• Improves overall handling.

If you’re using all-season tyres, rotation every 5,000–8,000 miles (8,000–12,000 km) is still recommended for optimal balance.

Braking with New Tyres

Fitting a brand-new set of tyres is like breaking in a new pair of hiking boots — they need a short adjustment period.

During the first 300–500 miles (500–800 km):

• Drive gently,

• Avoid hard braking or high-speed cornering, and

• Allow the surface to “bed in.”

This period helps remove any release agents from the manufacturing process and ensures the tread makes full, even contact with the road.

How Long Does a Tyre Change Take?

The process depends on whether you’re doing it yourself or visiting a professional:

• DIY wheel change: 30–60 minutes, depending on tools and experience.

• At a tyre retailer: typically 15–20 minutes for a full tyre swap (or slightly longer for balancing and alignment).

To make it even faster, call ahead to book a slot and ensure your tyres are ready for fitting when you arrive.

Key Takeaways

✅ Switch tyres seasonally — summer (Easter to October), winter (October to Easter).
✅ All-season tyres offer a convenient middle ground for mild climates.
✅ Rotate your tyres during seasonal changes to extend their life.
✅ Retorque wheel nuts after 30 miles of driving post-installation.
✅ Break in new tyres gently for the first few hundred miles.

Changing tyres might feel routine, but it’s a vital part of keeping your car safe, responsive, and efficient all year round. Whether you’re preparing for icy winter roads or smooth summer highways, the right tyres — fitted at the right time — make every drive safer and more enjoyable.