Temperatures are beginning to fall, and that means it’s almost time to install your winter tires! Nokian Tyres is the inventor of the winter tire, and we’re here to answer some of the most asked winter tire questions.
Preparing your car for winter driving is essential to staying safe on icy, slushy, and snowy roads.
What are winter tires?
How do you know you’re driving on true winter tires? Two key symbols make it clear.
The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol is the universal mark that identifies tires designed and tested for severe snow service. It’s awarded only to tires that meet specific traction standards in snow testing. If you see this symbol molded into your tire’s sidewall, it means the tire has been proven to deliver reliable grip and performance in snowy conditions.
For drivers who want the highest level of winter confidence, Nokian Tyres recommends looking for one more indicator, the Ice Grip emblem. While many tires qualify for the 3PMSF symbol, only the most advanced winter tires that pass rigorous ice-braking tests earn the Ice Grip distinction. To receive it, a tire must perform at least 18% better in an ice-braking test than a standard reference tire.
It’s no surprise that the newest generations of Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta winter tires proudly feature the 3PMSF and Ice Grip emblem, a testament to our continued leadership in safety and innovation on icy, snowy roads.
When to put on winter tires?
When the temperature consistently drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit or 7 degrees Celsius, it’s time to swap over to winter tires.
That’s the point where summer and all-season tires begin to harden, leading to less grip and longer braking distances. Winter tires, on the other hand, stay flexible in the cold, giving you the traction you need on icy and snowy roads.
Use our Tire Buying Guide to help you determine which type of tires will be best for the weather conditions you face.
Don’t wait for the first big storm or you’ll be stuck in line for an appointment! Make the switch once temperatures drop and be ready before winter arrives.
Schedule your winter changeover with your local Nokian Tyres dealer here.
What is the difference between studded and nonstudded winter tires?
Studded tires offer maximum grip and safety in icy conditions, but they aren’t automatically the best choice for every driver. Some regions restrict or prohibit studded tires, so it’s important to check your local regulations before installing them.
Nokian Tyres recommends nonstudded winter tires for drivers in larger cities or areas where roads are regularly cleared. For those in rural or remote regions, the added bite of studded tires, like the Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 10, provides exceptional traction on ice and hard packed snow.
If you must drive nonstudded tires, don't worry: Nokian Tyres embeds microscopic crystals throughout the tread of our Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta R5, which act like studs to enhance grip on icy surfaces. Furthermore, our Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta R5 winter tires come Consumer Reports Recommended.
Are winter tire studs replaceable?
Winter tire studs are not designed to be replaced. Nokian Tyres’ studded products are built in the factory with studs that are securely installed and perfectly balanced for safety. This precision is what gives them that unbeatable bite and control in winter’s toughest conditions.
Replacing studs after they’ve fallen out can compromise both your safety and your tires’ performance. If the studs or tread are worn down, it’s time to replace the tire to ensure continued safety throughout the winter season.
Studs aren’t like shoelaces you can swap out; they’re built tough from the start to keep you confident during winter’s worst.
How do I know whether my tires are in good condition?
Before installing your winter set, inspect them for visible damage, cracks, or deflation. For extra peace of mind, have a trusted Nokian Tyres dealer perform a professional inspection to confirm your tires are safe and ready for the season.
Even the best tires can become a hazard if they’re damaged or worn. To check your tread depth, insert a penny into the tire’s grooves with Lincoln’s head facing down. If the top of his head remains visible, it’s time to replace your tires.
Many Nokian Tyres products include our built-in Driving Safety Indicator (DSI), a simple number-based gauge molded right into the tread. As the tread wears down, the numbers disappear, showing you exactly how much tread remains and when it’s time to replace your tires. It’s one more way Nokian Tyres helps you drive with confidence, no matter the season.
Learn more about tire care and maintenance here.
Ready for Winter Driving?
Whether you’re navigating snowy mountain roads or slick city streets, your tires are your first line of defense. Nokian Tyres has been helping drivers conquer winter for nearly a century, combining innovation, safety, and performance in every product we make.
To learn more about how our winter tires are engineered for safety in the toughest conditions, explore our Hakkapeliitta family of products. No matter where your winter adventures take you, Nokian Tyres is here to help you get there safely, confidently, and in control.
Looking for a set of Nokian Tyres products? Find a local Nokian Tyres retailer:
Please remember that it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure their tires are safe and suitable for their vehicle and to follow the vehicle’s manufacturer´s guidelines for proper use and maintenance. Consult your closest Nokian Tyres dealer or your vehicle’s manufacturer for specific advice.
