Understanding Winter Tyre Prices in the UK: What to Expect This Season

Curious about winter tyres in the UK? Discover the latest insights on what winter tyres cost in the UK this season. Prices vary greatly depending on brand and specifications, but understanding the typical range can help you make an informed decision.

Sydney Blunt

14 Jan 2026 • 2 min read

Understanding Winter Tyres

Winter tyres, also known as cold weather tyres, are specially designed to perform better than regular tyres in cold conditions. They have a different tread pattern and are made from a softer rubber compound. As a result, they do not harden in lower temperatures, offering better grip on ice, snow, and wet surfaces.

Why Switch to Winter Tyres?

Switching to winter tyres can offer several safety benefits. A study performed by the UK Transport Research Laboratory indicated that vehicles equipped with winter tyres are less likely to skid on icy and snowy roads compared to those with standard tyres.

Improved Road Safety: Winter tyres significantly reduce stopping distances on snowy or icy roads.
Enhanced Handling: The grip and control offered by winter tyres lead to better handling in adverse weather conditions.
Increased Protection: Even when roads appear clear, cold weather can affect road safety, and winter tyres help counteract this.

What to Consider When Buying Winter Tyres

When considering winter tyres, it's crucial to weigh various factors, including your driving habits, the types of roads you frequently travel, and the typical weather conditions in your area. Here's what you need to consider:

Size and Compatibility

Ensure that the winter tyres you are purchasing are the right size for your vehicle. Incorrectly sized tyres can lead to poor fitting and reduced effectiveness. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for the correct size and fit.

Quality and Brand

Research brands known for their quality and reliability in producing winter tyres. Leading brands like Michelin, Continental, and Pirelli have robust options with proven performance in winter conditions. Each brand offers unique technologies such as Continental's advanced silica compounds or Pirelli's adaptive tread patterns.

Performance Features

Look for key performance features such as:

Tread Design: Aggressive patterns help dispel water and slush, maintaining contact with the road.
Rubber Composition: Softer compounds ensure flexibility and grip even in freezing temperatures.
Speed Rating: Consider the trade-off between speed capability and winter performance.

What Winter Tyres Cost in the UK for 2025

The cost of winter tyres in the UK varies widely based on brand, size, and performance features. As of 2025, here’s a general overview of pricing:

Budget Tyres

Budget options generally range from £50 to £90 per tyre. While affordable, they may not offer the advanced technology and durability of premium brands.

Mid-Range Tyres

Mid-range tyres cost between £90 and £140 per tyre. These offer good performance and represent the best value for money. Brands in this category might include Hankook or Falken.

Premium Tyres

Premium winter tyres tend to cost from £140 to £200 per tyre or more. They offer top-tier technology and materials for the best winter driving performance. Examples include Michelin’s Alpin or Goodyear’s UltraGrip models.

Additional Costs to Consider

Besides the cost of the tyres themselves, additional costs may include:

Fitting Charges: Professional fitting services can cost around £10 to £20 per tyre.
Storage: If you lack space to store your off-season tyres, storage services may charge a seasonal fee ranging from £25 to £50.
Balance and Alignment: After fitting, wheel balancing and alignment might be necessary, costing approximately £40 to £60.

Conclusion

Winter tyres can be a crucial investment for drivers in the UK, offering enhanced safety and performance during the colder months. When selecting winter tyres, consider your driving conditions, budget, and the specific performance features required for your vehicle. Although they represent an additional cost, the benefits of improved road safety and vehicle control make winter tyres a worthy consideration for many drivers.