Overview
- Germany’s situational requirement applies in ice, snow, slush or black ice, and since October 1, 2024 only tyres bearing the Alpine (three‑peak mountain snowflake) symbol satisfy the rule.
- Experts advise replacing winter tyres well before the legal 1.6 mm minimum, typically at about 4 mm remaining tread and after roughly six years of use.
- All‑season tyres marked with the Alpine symbol meet the legal duty but are a performance compromise in harsh winter conditions and often wear faster when used year‑round.
- Workshops report rising bookings in early October, with advice to order larger and SUV sizes early; wheel change services typically cost about €20–€70 depending on size and add‑ons.
- Driving on inappropriate tyres in winter conditions can bring €60–€100 fines plus a Flensburg point, insurers may argue contributory fault, and a Munich ruling highlights drivers must recheck or retighten wheel nuts after a short drive.