As winter approaches, millions of drivers in Europe are preparing to switch car tires. But a new study shows that simple tire - vision control is not enough to ensure safety.
The German automobile club ADAC published in September 2026 the results of a test that analysed the conduct of winter tires with different levels of consumption.
Experts found that tire performance deteriorates dramatically when the depth of the profile drops from four to two millimeters.
The problem becomes especially dangerous on wet roads, where the possibility of losing contact with asphalt increases because of water.
According to ADAC, in Germany the legal minimum of the profile is 1.6 mm. However, the organisation recommends replacing winter tires when the profile reaches about four millimeters.
The difference between legal demand and security recommendation is important.
A tire may still be allowed to use according to German law but no longer offer the desired level of security in snow or in heavy rain.
ADAC also recommends controlling tire age because rubber compounds change over the years.
Drivers who travel among European states must also control national rules, since the demand for winter tires is not the same anywhere.
Before the next trip, monitoring the profile, pressure, and tyre conditions can be as important as controlling brakes.
