When should you replace old winter tyres? Five pre-season checks

Inspect last season's winter tyres before booking a tyre change. Tread that looks deep enough at a glance does not reveal uneven wear, damage or incorrect pressure. These five checks help you decide whether the set is ready for another winter.

1. Measure tread depth

The Estonian Transport Administration states that the minimum permitted tread depth for winter tyres is 3 mm and recommends replacement at 4 mm. Measure at several points across each tyre: wear may be greater on one edge than another.

2. Look for wear and damage

Inspect the sidewalls and tread for cracks, bulges, cuts and uneven wear. If anything looks doubtful, ask a tyre specialist to assess it before driving. Check all four tyres rather than judging the set by the best-looking one.

3. Check winter markings

A studless winter tyre used in Estonia needs the three-peak mountain and snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. M+S alone is insufficient. For studded tyres, inspect the studs and the tyre's overall condition, and remember the permitted dates: normally 15 October to 31 March, or 1 October to 30 April in winter road and weather conditions.

4. Set the right pressure

Use the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure. The Transport Administration advises checking it at least monthly, ideally before driving on cold tyres. Look for the setting on the driver's-door pillar, inside the fuel flap or in the vehicle handbook.

5. Confirm the approved size

If you need replacements, note the full approved size, load index and speed rating. Sharing the same rim diameter does not make tyres with different aspect ratios interchangeable. The European Commission's guide explains each part of the code.

If a check reveals a problem, browse Koleso.ee tyres by the size approved for your car. Compare the chosen model's winter performance and availability before ordering.