When is the best time of year to buy tyres?
Buying tyres is a regular yet significant expense for any motorist. Whether it's summer tyres,
winter or all-season, choosing the right time to buy them can make all the difference, both in terms
of both price and availability. In this article, we explore in detail the ideal periods for buying tyres,
the factors to consider, market trends and pitfalls to avoid, to help you make a choice
sensible, economical and safe.
1. Understanding tyre seasonality
1.1 Summer tyres, winter tyres and all-season tyres
- Summer tyres effective when the temperature is above 7 °C.
Their rubber compound is optimised to deliver grip, braking performance and comfort on both dry and wet roads. - Winter tyres designed for snow, ice and low temperatures.
Their lamellar structure ensures better grip on slippery surfaces. - All-season tyres compromise suited to temperate climates.
They are suitable for motorists who mainly drive in urban areas and do not encounter
extreme conditions.
1.2 Legal obligations in Switzerland
Since 2021, Swiss law has required the use of tyres suited to weather conditions. This makes
even greater forward planning to avoid stockouts or price increases in the middle of the season.
It is also important to note that the insurance company may disclaim liability in the event of an accident if the vehicle is
fitted with tyres unsuited to the season. This is an excellent reason to plan ahead for tyre changes,
before the arrival of snow or extreme heat.
2. When to buy tyres to pay less?
2.1 The effect of demand on prices
The law of supply and demand applies fully to the tyre market, in Switzerland as elsewhere.
- Before the season (low season) demand is lower, the workshops are less busy
and prices tend to be more attractive. - During the peak season demand is soaring, stocks are melting away and prices
rise mechanically.
Prices can also be influenced by transport costs, exchange rates (for tyres
imported), or raw material shortages. Hence the importance of not leaving things until the last minute.
2.2 Recommended periods for buying tyres
- Winter tyres ideally between March and September, before the request
doesn't explode in the autumn. - Summer tyres ideally between October and February, at the end or outside
of the summer season. - All-season tyres periods like May Or November
are often conducive to clearing stock and promotions.
Some retailers also offer flash sales or pre-order campaigns with
very competitive prices. Keep an eye on these offers to optimise your tyre budget.
3. Market analysis and purchasing trends
3.1 Consumer behaviour
Many motorists wait for the first snow or heatwaves to change their tyres.
Result: rush on the workshop, shortages of certain dimensions and price increases on the models
most requested.
The growing popularity of price comparison websites is also influencing purchasing behaviour. Today,
a significant proportion of online tyre purchases are made via these platforms, which intensifies the peaks in
enquiries about certain periods.
3.2 Distributor tactics
Retailers often run early promotions to smooth out demand over the year.
Therefore, it is wise to take advantage of «early bird» campaigns.
Additionally, some retailers offer bundles «purchase + fitting» at a reduced price
If you book well in advance of the season, it’s a great way to secure both the price and the time slot.
intervention.
4. The benefits of buying your tyres in advance
- In stock access to all sizes, brands and ranges (premium, mid-range,
budget. - Lower price it is possible to carry out very significant savings
in relation to last-minute purchases. - Reduced assembly times less time waiting in the workshop and more available time slots to choose from.
- Safety you are ready as soon as the weather changes, without driving on unsuitable tyres.
Buying in advance also makes it easier to plan your annual budget by avoiding unexpected expenses
or urgent payments, which are often less optimised.
5. Buying tyres online or in a shop?
5.1 Advantages of buying tyres online
- Quick and easy price comparison between numerous merchants.
- Exclusive online-only promotions and discount codes.
- Home delivery or directly to a fitting partner.
- Customer reviews to guide your choice of brand and model.
5.2 Advantages of buying in a physical store
- Tailored advice based on your vehicle and driving style.
- Immediate fitting, when stock is available on site.
- Possibility to view the product before purchase and to ask questions to the technician.
Some major retailers offer hybrid packages:
online purchase with fitting at an approved centre. It is an excellent compromise between price,
simplicity and quality of service.
6. Factors to consider before purchasing
- Date of manufacture (DOT) choose recent tyres, ideally less than 2 years old.
- Storage if you buy in advance, store your tyres in a dry, dark and temperate place,
away from UV rays and extreme temperature fluctuations. - Guarantee check the warranty terms offered by the seller
(manufacturing defect, puncture, etc.). - Use do you mainly drive in town, on the motorway, or in the mountains?
Adapt your tyres to your actual usage. - Speed and load rating use the homologated tyre ratings for your vehicle
(mentioned in the logbook and on the tyre pressure label).
7. The main pitfalls to avoid
- Leaving it until the last minute to order or make an appointment.
- Focusing solely on price at the expense of quality and safety.
- Disregarding the load and speed ratings recommended by the manufacturer.
- Buying second-hand tyres with no history or serious inspection.
- Not comparing multiple suppliers and missing out on interesting promotional offers.
It is better to invest a little more in a quality product than to expose yourself to risks on the road
(increased braking distance, poor road handling, aquaplaning, etc.).
8. The special case of 4-season tyres
All-season tyres are gaining ground in Switzerland. They are winning over more and more motorists, and for good reason:
- Fewer tyre changes during the year.
- Reduction of the overall budget related to editing and storage.
- Quite respectable performances for the majority of drivers in areas with little snow.
But be careful: this is a compromise. For very snowy mountain areas
or particularly demanding drivers (daily commutes in difficult conditions), summer tyres
and dedicated winter tyres remain preferable.
9. The right time = the anticipated time
In conclusion, the right time to buy tyres is not dictated solely by the weather, but by
the’anticipation. Buying tyres out of season allows for significant savings
whilst benefiting from optimum availability.
Plan, inform yourself, compare and anticipate: these are the keys to equipping your vehicle safely
peace of mind, optimising your budget and driving safely whatever the season.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to buy winter tyres?
The best time to buy winter tyres is between March and September.
By buying out of season, you benefit from more attractive prices and a greater choice of models.
Can you buy your tyres a year in advance?
Yes, it is entirely possible to buy your tyres a year in advance, provided that store them properly dry, dark, temperate place, protected from hydrocarbons and UV rays.
Is there a significant price difference depending on the season?
Yes. Between peak season and low season, prices can vary by around 20 % to 40 %, depending on the brand and size, and even more compared to car dealerships of certain brands.
Planning ahead therefore allows you to make some great savings.
Are all-season tyres a good compromise?
Yes, all-season tyres are a good compromise for regions with little snow and for drivers who mainly drive in town or on the plains. On the other hand, for areas with heavy snow, dedicated winter tyres remain recommended.
How do you know if a tyre is still good?
Check the depth of the carvings from 1.6 mm, the tyre must be replaced. Also check the date of manufacture (DOT): ideally, choose tyres that are less than 5 years old and in good visual condition (no cracking).
Can you negotiate the price of tyres?
In shops, it is sometimes possible to negotiate, especially on services (assembly, balancing, storage).
Online, you had better watch your promo codes, flash sales and special offers.
Does the insurance cover tyres?
Certain insurance policies cover tyres in the event of vandalism or from’accident.
It is advisable to check the conditions of your policy to find out the exact extent of the cover.
What is the risk of leaving it until the last minute?
Leaving it until the last minute runs the risk of facing a Limited stock, des higher prices and some prolonged waiting times at the garage. You can also drive on unsuitable tyres in the event of a sudden change in the weather.
Why are some tyres cheaper?
The cheapest tyres are often entry-level models, lesser-known brands or older stock. This isn’t necessarily a bad choice, but you need to pay close attention to performance (braking, handling, durability) and the European tyre labels.
Can you fit different tyres on the front and rear?
That is not recommended. For optimal road holding, it is better to opt for a seamless assembly (same model, same brand, same dimensions) on all four wheels.
What is the average lifespan of a tyre?
On average, a tyre can last between 30,000 and 50,000 km, depending on the type of road, driving style, vehicle load level and maintenance (correct tyre pressure, wheel alignment, tyre rotation, etc.).
Are all tyres recyclable?
Yes. Used tyres are collected and recycled through specialised schemes.
This is an important step to reduce the environmental impact and valorise materials.
