Using winter tires during summer months significantly increases braking distances and compromises vehicle stability, according to testing by the German automobile club ADAC. Data indicates that in extreme scenarios, a vehicle equipped with winter tires at 100 km/h requires up to 16 meters more to stop than one fitted with summer tires, potentially leaving the vehicle traveling at 37 km/h at the point where a summer-tired car would have already come to a complete halt.
The Safety Risks of Summer Winter-Tire Use
Many drivers choose to use their winter tires until they are fully worn, viewing it as a cost-saving measure. However, ADAC testing confirms that this practice creates a substantial safety deficit once temperatures rise. While winter tires are engineered with specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns for snow, ice, and low-temperature performance, these features become a liability on hot asphalt.
When temperatures reach 35 degrees Celsius, the soft rubber compound of a winter tire loses its structural integrity. This results in reduced grip and a “softer,” less precise feel when steering. ADAC reports that this instability is particularly dangerous for vehicles carrying heavy loads, a common occurrence during summer vacations.
Did you know?
Even partially worn winter tires with four millimeters of tread depth performed worse than summer tires in ADAC’s tests, requiring an additional five meters to stop on dry pavement.
Braking Distance and Performance Gaps
The primary concern cited by ADAC is the dramatic increase in braking distance. During tests conducted at speeds of 100 km/h, the discrepancy between summer and winter tires was stark.
Reporting by DotBg corroborates these findings, noting that the performance gap widens significantly as ambient temperatures climb from 10–13 degrees to 35 degrees. The inability of the winter tire compound to handle heat results in diminished traction, directly impacting the vehicle’s ability to maneuver safely during emergency braking or sudden course changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use winter tires in the summer if I drive slowly?
ADAC does not recommend this.
Do worn winter tires perform better in summer?
Testing showed that while winter tires with 4mm of tread performed slightly better than those with deeper tread, they still required significantly more distance to stop than summer tires.
Why is my car harder to handle with winter tires in summer?
The softer rubber compound, designed for winter conditions, becomes too pliable on hot roads. This reduces steering precision and creates instability, especially when the vehicle is loaded with luggage.
Have you ever had to use winter tires during a heatwave? Share your experiences in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more automotive safety tips and maintenance advice.