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FAQ How to choose the right tyres – Winter tyres

Tips & Advice for Car, SUV & Van tyres

Do I need winter tyres if I have a 4x4 vehicle?

4x4 vehicles, also known as vehicles with 4-wheel drive, give you better traction on snow than vehicles with only front- or rear-wheel drive. Nevertheless, they are still less effective than vehicles with winter equipment installed (3PMSF winter tyres or 3PMSF 4 season tyres).

With a 4 wheel drive vehicle you have twice the traction of a 2 wheel drive vehicle, but the same level of braking. In winter conditions, this means it may be easier to get up a hill in a 4 wheel drive with summer tyres, but coming down the vehicle may become unstable. The benefits of 3PMSF certified tyres in winter conditions are obvious for all vehicles.

Can I put snow chains on any vehicle?

Most vehicles can use classic or standard snow chains.

Some vehicles, though, require specific snow chains to be installed.

Begin by checking with your manufacturer to see if your vehicle can use standard snow chains. Certain vehicles don’t have enough space between the tyres and the body of the car for classic snow chains. If you were to install snow chains on this type of vehicle, it could damage your tyres or other parts your car. In this case, you will need to use ladder-type snow chains or snow socks.

To learn more about the snow chains offered by Michelin Lifestyle, click here.

What is the point of studded tyres?

In regions and countries that allow them, studded tyres are recommended for dealing with the most extreme kinds of winter weather. They outperform non studded winter tyres on roads that are icy, covered with compacted snow, or covered in black ice.

Can I drive on the road with my studded tyres?

You are free to hit the road with your studded tyres as long as you follow certain rules. Some countries in Europe permit the use of studded tyres at certain points in the year, but the local regulations may differ so make sure to consult local regulations before you opt for studded tyres.

When driving with studded tyres, you must put a special sticker on the back of your vehicle and stick to speeds of 90 km/h or less.

What are the differences between Winter Tyres, Snow Tyres, and Thermorubber Tyres?

There isn’t really much of a difference. These terms have evolved over time and with the development of new technology. These days, they are most commonly referred to as winter tyres, because their benefits can be felt not only on snowy roads, but in all winter conditions, in particular on wet road surfaces at temperatures < 7°C.

What is the difference between snow chains and snow socks?

The main difference is in the design: snow chains are added on top of the tyre tread, while snow socks completely cover the wheels. With snow chains, the grip is a result of the tyre and the chain working together. With snow socks, it is the fabric material of the sock that provides grip.

On hard pack snow, the 2 systems work about the same, whereas on fresh snow and black ice, chains are more effective. They are also more resistant and will deteriorate more slowly on roads that have been cleared of snow. Socks, however, are much easier and faster to put into place.

Until the early 2000s, you could only find metallic chains on the market. For the past fifteen years or so, however, notably at the instigation of Michelin, new concepts of chains—such as socks (S.O.S Grip) and composite chains (Michelin Easy Grip)—have been developed for easier usage, particularly in terms of installation and continually improving performance.

To learn more about our line of snow chains, visit our dedicated website.

Do you need special wheels for winter tyres?

You can install your winter tyres on your usual wheels. For drivers who use winter tyres, Michelin suggests you use summer tyres in the summertime, which means you will have to change your tyres twice per year:

  • Once in the spring to change from winter tyres to summer tyres
  • Once in the autumn to change from summer tyres to winter tyres

Of course, changing your tyres comes at a certain cost. One alternative is to have two sets of wheels (rims + tyres), one with winter tyres and one with summer tyres. This way, you can simply change out your wheels without having to remove your tyres, saving you money.

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