What is it with these winter tyres?

Martin Hindry’s question about winter tyres and Nick Fisher’s answer (March, p125) begs me to add several points.

Firstly, the Germans have a rule that states that winter tyres have to be used for the period ‘O to O’ i.e. October to Ostern (Easter). Anyone who does not have the correct tyres can find their insurance cover invalid, while fines can be issued as well.

This will also be the case in France as of this year, although here things are complicated. The ruling will come into force in selected departments, not the whole of France but wherever winter conditions can make driving difficult.

Again, true winter tyres, not M+S (mud and snow) or similar, must be fitted and this will apparently apply also to light vans and motorhomes. More complicated is, however, the fact that it will be up to the local prefects and, in some cases, the local mayors to decide if the rule is to be applied or not.

Certainly, this year has seen heavy snow and ice conditions in Brittany, Normandy, the north and east of France, Provence and the Central Massif. If Mr Hindry is seriously thinking of touring after October, then I would imagine that life would be much easier if full winter tyres are used. Under no circumstances would I advise all-season tyres – in Germany they are forbidden in winter and this will probably be the case, too, here in France.

Michael Day

ED To clarify, the rules regarding Germany are that these winter tyres are compulsory in winter conditions (sleet, snow and ice). Timescales are not defined, but the October to Easter dates are used as a rule of thumb.

All-season tyres do not comply in Germany but, if you have a set with the M+S symbol manufactured before 2018 (look for the date code), these can still be used on the road until 2024 while driving on German roads.

The changes in French regulations mean that winter tyres and chains will be compulsory from 1 November to 31 March in specific areas across 48 departments – the list should be published so keep an eye out for this if you plan to travel to regions of France between these dates.

The legislation states that for M1 and N1 category vehicles: the possession of removable non-slip devices enabling at least two driving wheels to be fitted or the wearing, on at least two wheels of each axle, of ‘winter’ tyres.

For vehicles of category N2 and N3, without trailer: the possession of removable anti-skid devices making it possible to equip at least two driving wheels or the port, on at least two steered wheels of the main steering system and at least two driving wheels, with ‘winter’ tyres.

For vehicles of category N2 and N3, with trailer: the possession of removable anti-skid devices enabling at least two driving wheels to be fitted.