German Winter Tyre Laws: New Rules Now in Force

Big changes have just hit this autumn! If you're driving in Germany, especially with your motorhome, you need to know about the new winter tyre rules that came into effect last month. And yes - they're already enforcing them.

The Big October 2024 Change

Here's what changed - those old M+S marked tyres aren't legal anymore. Since October 2024, you need proper winter tyres with the Alpine symbol (that little snowflake mountain thing). If you haven't updated your tyres yet, you'll want to sort that ASAP.

When Do You Need Winter Tyres in Germany?

Here's the tricky bit - there's no fixed "winter tyre season" in Germany. Instead, it depends on the weather conditions. You need them when there's:

Snow
Black ice
Slush
Frost
Ice formation

Now winter's approaching, this is more relevant than ever.

Special Rules for Motorhomes and Bigger Vehicles

Got a motorhome over 3,500 kg? Listen up - this is crucial:

You need winter tyres on BOTH drive and steering axles
This rule's been in force since July 2020
No exceptions for larger vehicles
Your old setup with just drive axle winter tyres won't cut it

The Alpine Symbol - Now Mandatory

Since last month, you must have tyres with:

The Alpine symbol (looks like a snowflake in a mountain)
At least 1.6mm tread depth (though 4mm is recommended)
Proper winter rating

Those old M+S (Mud + Snow) markings? They're now officially outdated. Even if they're on summer tyres, they don't count anymore.

Checking Your Current Tyres

Got winter tyres already? Here's how to check if they're still legal:

Find the DOT code on your tyre
Look at the last 4 numbers
For example, "2416" means week 24 of 2016
Any tyres from before 2018 are now illegal (even if they look fine!)

What About All-Season Tyres?

Don't panic if you're running all-seasons - you can still use them IF they have:

The Alpine symbol
A/S marking on the sidewall
Proper tread depth

But remember - since October, no Alpine symbol means no go! We're already seeing police checks focusing on this.

The Expensive Bit: Fines and Liability

Getting caught with non-compliant tyres now means:

€60 basic fine
€80 if you're blocking traffic
Partial liability in ANY accident (even if it's not your fault!)

And yes, they're actively enforcing this - several motorhome owners have already reported being checked.

Extra Winter Gear You Need

With winter properly setting in, make sure you've got:

Windscreen washer fluid with antifreeze
Working wipers (crucial in these wet months!)
Ice scraper and snow brush
Antifreeze for your coolant
Snow chains (mandatory on some mountain roads)

Must-Have Items for German Roads

These legal requirements haven't changed:

Warning triangle
Safety vest
First aid kit
Two wheel chocks (if you're towing)
Yellow flashing light (recommended for non-German vehicles)

Real-World Tips (Updated November 2024)

Many tyre shops are reporting long waiting times - book ahead
Some places are offering "last-minute Alpine compliance" deals
Keep those snow chains accessible - you'll need them sooner than you think
The 4mm recommended tread depth is worth it - especially with winter already here
Several motorhome forums are reporting increased police checks since October

The Bottom Line

The new German winter tyre laws are now in full force. If you haven't updated your tyres yet, you're technically driving illegally in winter conditions. With winter weather already hitting parts of Germany, it's not worth risking the fines or accident liability.

Quick Checklist for November 2024:
✓ Check your tyre markings for the Alpine symbol
✓ Verify your tread depth
✓ Book a tyre change if needed (don't delay!)
✓ Get your winter equipment ready
✓ Keep proof of tyre compliance in your vehicle

Got questions about the new rules? Drop them in the comments below. And if you've already been checked by German police under these new regulations, share your experience!