All-season tyres: a good solution?
What exactly are all-season tyres? All-seasons (all-weather/4-seasons) combine summer and winter properties. The better variants carry the 3PMSF logo and pass the snow test, which in many countries suffices as "winter tyre" in winter conditions. The EU tyre label (Reg. 2020/740) helps you compare objectively: rolling resistance (consumption/acting range), wet grip (safety) and external rolling noise. The label may also include snow and ice icons [...]
A flat tyre: now what?
Safety first, then technique Do not brake abruptly; steer the car to a safe place (breakdown lane/parking) in a controlled way. Put on your fluorescent vest, exit along the passenger side. Position the warning triangle: 100 m on motorways and 30 m on other roads (in built-up areas also 30 m; if impossible, closer is allowed, but visible from ±50 m). On the [...]
What does the data on a tape mean?
The size deciphered: 205/55 R16 91V (example) 205 = section width in mm 55 = height-to-width ratio in % R = radial construction 16 = rim diameter in inches 91 = load index (load capacity per tyre, 91 = 615 kg) V = speed index (maximum permissible speed of the tyre) Additional markings you often see: XL/REINFORCED: reinforced tyre [...]
Winter tyres: what you need to know
Legal context in Belgium and neighbouring countries Winter tyres are not legally required in Belgium. In countries like Germany and Austria, (situational) duty applies in winter conditions; if you are planning a ski trip or driving through such regions, you do need winter tyres. Studded (studded) tyres are permitted in Belgium from 1 November to 31 March [...]
