When to change tires to winter ones in Russia
Every year, motorists face the question of when to change their tires before winter, and in the already started season 2024/2025, the Ministry of Transport decided to remind about this, having previously consulted with Rosavtodor and GC "Avtodor" (the difference is that the second organization is engaged in the construction and maintenance of toll roads).
Like manufacturers, the Ministry of Transport recommends changing tires to winter ones when the average daily temperature drops to 5-7°C and constant frosts occur. In Russia, the climate of regions differs, and the department notes that in the Urals, the need to change tires usually arises in October, and in the central part of the country - closer to November.
The reason for changing tires to winter ones does not need to be explained to experienced drivers, but the Ministry of Transport still recalls that in frost, the rubber compounds of summer tires become too hard, which worsens traction and safety. The test by Tyre Reviews, for example, recently demonstrated how poorly summer tires behave in winter conditions.
Another nuance is that in Russia, car owners are legally required to use specialized tires from December 1, and in 2023, a fine of 500 rubles was introduced. However, shortly before the new regulations came into force, the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that fines would not be imposed.
The Ministry of Transport notes that for the winter period, "winter tires, both studded and non-studded, but necessarily with the M+S, M&S or M S marking" are mandatory. It should be taken into account that this marking does not confirm that the tire can work efficiently on snow, let alone icy surfaces, since certification by independent organizations is not carried out, and manufacturers can, and in the case of Chinese brands, do supply them with tires that are completely unsuitable for even mild winter conditions. As a result, for example, in 2024, the requirements for tires in Germany and Sweden changed, where now in the cold season, tires with the 3PMSF marking (a mountain with three peaks and a snowflake) are required, for which snow tests are mandatory.
"It is necessary to change the tires in a timely manner, depending on the weather conditions," the Ministry of Transport adds.
Source: Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation. Photo: grtouchette.com