Summer tire changes and maintenance guide for drivers

As spring approaches, Swedish drivers are preparing for the transition from winter to summer tires. Experts recommend making the switch when the average daily temperature remains stable above +7 degrees Celsius to ensure optimal grip and fuel economy. While Swedish law mandates winter tires between December 1 and March 31 if winter conditions persist, the timing for summer tires depends on weather stability.

Costs for tire changes vary based on vehicle type and service requirements. For passenger cars with tires already on rims, prices typically range from 300 to 600 SEK, while loose tires may cost between 600 and 1,000 SEK including mounting and balancing. Specialized services like tire hotels or TPMS sensor calibration can add further expenses.

Maintaining tire tread depth is critical for safety. Worn tires significantly increase braking distances; research indicates that at 120 km/h, braking distance can increase by 162 percent when tread is worn down to 1.6 mm compared to new tires. Additionally, improper maintenance, such as over-inflating tires to improve fuel efficiency, can inadvertently accelerate tire wear.