Winter tire regulations tighten in Finland as new standards approach

The tire changing season is at its peak. In Finland, winter tires are mandatory from the beginning of November until the end of March, depending on weather conditions. Here’s a checklist to ensure your winter tires are still suitable for use:

1. Does the tire have a mountain symbol?
Starting December 2024, requirements for winter-use studless tires will tighten. Tires missing the mountain symbol will no longer be permitted for winter use. According to Ilari Sallinen, a parts manager at Lappeenranta’s Autotalo Ripatti, production of these types of tires ceased in 2019, but many may still be on the road. Approved winter tires can be identified by the 3PMSF marking and a snowflake inside a mountain symbol.

2. Is the tread depth sufficient?
Finnish traffic law states that winter tires must have at least three millimeters of tread depth in the main grooves. However, tire performance begins to deteriorate sooner. Sallinen suggests aiming for a tread depth of at least five millimeters. Tarja Korhonen, from the Finnish Road Safety Authority, recommends closely monitoring tire wear once tread depth reaches four to five millimeters. He also advises paying attention to the style of driving, as more worn tires require increased caution.

3. When was the tire manufactured?
Tires harden over time, so checking the manufacturing date, known as the DOT code, is essential. This code indicates the week and year of production. Sallinen warns that older tires, even if they have enough tread left, can lose effectiveness due to hardened rubber. Generally, tires should not be used beyond six years from the date of manufacture, and any tire older than ten years is considered too old, regardless of usage.