If you’re new to car ownership, you may be wondering if it’s worth switching your tyres in the summer months.

Whilst all-season tyres can be used all 12 months of the year, you could instead opt for summer tyres in the warmer months, and winter tyres once the temperature falls.

All-season tyres wear out faster than summer tyres when used in warm weather, and don’t last as long as winter tyres in freezing conditions.

So, whilst all-season tyres can save you the effort of swapping the wheels twice a year and finding somewhere to store your tyres, using summer tyres in the warmer months offers certain benefits for your vehicle...

 

What Are Summer Tyres?

Summer tyres are different to all-season tyres, being designed to ensure optimal performance in temperatures above 7°C.

Performing best on dry and wet roads, summer tyres work well even in temperatures above 35°C.

Summer tyres aren’t meant to be used in wintry conditions, as the rubber can harden in temperatures below 7°C and the braking distance can increase if driving in snow.

 

When Should I Switch to Summer Tyres?

In the UK, you should switch to summer tyres once the temperature consistently stays above 7°C - this will usually be between April and June, so you can have your summer tyres fitted until around September or October.

At this temperature, summer tyres can maintain their shape, stability and traction, having a higher tread elasticity and firmer rubber compounds than winter tyres.

 

Why Should I Change to Summer Tyres?

Summer tyres offer several advantages, including:

  • Durability in hot conditions

  • Optimised wet weather performance

  • Improved curve stability

  • Improved braking performance

  • Decreased stopping distances

  • Better fuel efficiency

Summer tyres are a good option for high-speed drivers that engage in performance or sporty driving that requires fast acceleration and cornering.

How to Check Your Summer Tyres

Before fitting summer tyres, you should carry out a couple of key checks:

How to Store Summer Tyres

When temperatures fall and you aren’t using them, you should store your summer tyres in a cool, dry and dark place. 

Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from any heat sources or moisture.

It can be helpful to clean and dry your wheels and tyres and to inspect them for wear and damage before you store them.

Frequently asked questions

As summer tyres are designed to work effectively above a certain temperature, they aren’t recommended to be used in the winter or in snowy or icy conditions.
You shouldn’t mix different types of tyres on the one vehicle, as this can cause uneven tyre wear and even reduced performance.