Tyres are the only thing connecting the car to the road — braking distance, grip, and safety all depend on them. We explain when to change tyres seasonally, how to choose the right ones, and how to tell the tread needs replacing.
When to change tyres — the 7°C rule
The simplest rule: when the average daily temperature drops below 7°C, it’s time for winter tyres; when it steadily rises above 7°C, switch back to summer. The summer compound hardens and loses grip in the cold, while the winter one wears out faster in summer.
Summer, winter, or all-season?
- Summer — the best grip and short braking distance in warm weather
- Winter — safety on snow, ice, and in low temperatures
- All-season — a compromise for those who drive little and mostly in the city
How to spot a tyre that needs replacing?
- Tread depth below 1.6 mm (the legal minimum) — at least 4 mm recommended in winter
- Visible cracks, bulges, or deformations on the tyre sidewall
- Uneven wear (a sign of bad alignment or pressure)
- Tyre age over about 10 years, even with good tread
The cheapest tyres can cost the most
Every braking ends on the tyres — the difference in braking distance between budget and premium class can be several metres. This is safety, not a place to save.
HUNTER balancing and road test
After every change the wheels must be balanced — otherwise steering vibration and uneven wear appear. On the HUNTER Road Force balancer we simulate real road load, detecting vibrations invisible to ordinary balancing.
Balancing under load = vibration-free driving
Road Force presses a roller against the wheel as during driving, letting us eliminate wheel wobble that a classic balancer won’t detect.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the minimum tread depth?
The legal minimum is 1.6 mm, but at least 4 mm is recommended in winter for safety.
Is it worth buying all-season tyres?
It’s a sensible compromise for those who drive little and mostly in the city; for high mileage, seasonal tyres are better.
Do you need to balance the wheels after a tyre change?
Yes — balancing eliminates steering vibration and uneven tread wear.
Do you store tyres?
Yes, we offer seasonal storage of a tyre set in proper conditions.
Change and balance your tyres
Don’t wait for a bigger breakdown — book a tyre change with HUNTER balancing in Wrocław.
