Summer Tyres in Winter: Why It’s a Dangerous Combination

As temperatures drop and frost appears on the roads, it’s time to think about tyre safety. Many drivers ask the same question each year:
Can I keep my summer tyres on during winter?

The short answer — and the safe one — is no.
Using summer tyres in winter conditions is risky, unsafe, and can even damage your tyres. Here’s why.

Why Summer Tyres Don’t Work in Winter

Tyre performance depends heavily on temperature. Summer tyres are engineered for warm conditions and dry or wet tarmac — not for cold, icy, or snowy roads.
When the mercury dips below 7 °C (46 °F), the rubber compounds and tread design of summer tyres stop functioning as intended.

1. Loss of Traction and Grip

The tread on summer tyres is optimised for stability and control on warm, dry, or wet roads.
In cold weather, that same tread becomes ineffective. Here’s what happens:

• Reduced traction: The rubber stiffens in the cold, losing flexibility and grip — even when the road is dry.

• Poor acceleration: On snow or ice, summer tyres can barely transfer power to the road, causing the wheels to spin.

• Longer braking distances: Summer tyres have low rolling resistance, which helps efficiency in warm weather but causes dangerously long stopping distances on cold or slippery roads.

• Loss of control: Hard braking or cornering on icy roads can quickly lead to skidding or aquaplaning.

By contrast, winter tyres are made with a soft, flexible compound and deeper tread that cuts through snow and grips the surface — giving you shorter braking distances and better control.

2. Risk of Damage in Cold Temperatures

Even if the roads look clear, cold air can harm summer tyres. Below 7 °C, the rubber compound hardens and loses elasticity, which can lead to:

• Cracking in the tread or sidewalls,

• Chipping of stiff tread blocks, and

• Premature wear or structural damage.

Once this happens, the tyres are unsafe and must be replaced — often at your own expense.
Most tyre warranties won’t cover damage caused by using summer tyres outside their recommended temperature range.

3. The Safe Alternatives

Winter Tyres

For drivers in regions that regularly experience snow, frost, or icy roads, winter tyres are the safest option.
Their flexible compounds and deep tread patterns are designed specifically for cold temperatures, delivering optimal traction and braking performance.

All-Season Tyres

If you live in an area with mild winters (occasional frost, little to no snow), all-season tyres can be a practical compromise.
They combine characteristics of both summer and winter tyres — offering:

• Reliable grip in moderate cold,

• Good handling in rain and light snow, and

• Convenience (no seasonal tyre changes needed).

However, even all-season tyres have their limits — in severe winter conditions, dedicated winter tyres remain the safer choice.

4. The Cost of Ignoring the Seasons

Driving with summer tyres in winter doesn’t just endanger your safety — it can also cost you more in the long run:

• Increased wear and tear on tyres,

• Higher risk of accidents,

• Possible invalidated warranty claims, and

• Greater replacement costs due to damage.

Key Takeaways

✅ Never use summer tyres in temperatures below 7 °C (46 °F).
✅ They lose grip, brake poorly, and wear out faster in cold weather.
✅ Cold temperatures can crack or chip summer tyre rubber.
✅ Consider winter tyres for harsh winters or all-season tyres for mild climates.
✅ Always consult your local tyre dealer for advice tailored to your driving conditions.

Final Thoughts

Switching your tyres seasonally might feel like an inconvenience, but it’s one of the most effective ways to stay safe on the road.
Proper tyres don’t just enhance performance — they help prevent accidents, save money in the long term, and give you peace of mind through every season.