Republika Srpska tire shops face long wait times for winter tire changes

Tire service centers across Republika Srpska are experiencing high demand as drivers switch from summer to winter tires. In cities like Banja Luka, many shops report having no available appointments for several days, with some services fully booked until early November.

Service providers in Banja Luka, such as “Rogić” and “Đurđević,” noted that while prices remain relatively stable compared to last year, the influx of customers has made it difficult for drivers to secure immediate appointments. Prices for tire changes typically range from 8 KM to 30 KM, depending on the service and tire size.

Experts warn that delaying this transition is dangerous. While legal requirements for winter tires in the region often depend on road conditions like snow or ice, driving on summer tires when temperatures drop below 7°C significantly increases risks. At these temperatures, summer tire rubber loses elasticity and hardens, leading to longer braking distances, reduced grip, and potential structural damage such as micro-cracking.