Winter tyres

[WeegieBob]

Yes, its a wise precaution, ask first before buying the wheels and tyres.

Insurance companies have been screwing motorists for extra premiums as they considered winter tyres a non-standard fitment which attracted an additional cost from many of them. The reason I say check first is you might find your insurers additional sum of money to cover the 'extra' risk might outweigh the cost benefits of buying winter tyres.

That said, after last years rip-off culture with the majority of insurers screwing those motorists who were in actual fact were making their cars safer to drive in winter conditions the resultant out-cry gathered pace early this year to stop these additional premiums with the AA & RAC being advocates for the motorists who had or were intending to fit winter tyres. I'm not sure how effective the two organisations were, maybe some of the other members here have more up to date info they would share?

WeegieBob.

[neilos100]

The Abi cleared this up last year.....fitting winter tyres is NOT a modification if the manufacturers recommended size, speed rating and load rating is used. You may drop a size or two if they are specced by the maker. You should not be paying a premium over summer tyres.....
If they want an extra premium then speak to a supervisor ...........

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[noonoo63]

Thanks, will give them a call first.

[noonoo63]

Thanks that is very helpful neilos 100

[SRGTD]

Thanks for info. If I put on the same size wheels do I still have to tell my insurance company?

I think it would be advisable to tell them. Technically, changing the wheels and tyres could be considered as a modification, although you'd be really unlucky if your insurer charges you any more, as you're improving the safety of your car. Better safe than sorry to tell them though.................

[neilos100]

Its not a modification.......read the post above.....the insurers were at fault and admitted it. But you must use recommended sizes etc.

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[neilos100]

Oh.....it is however a good idea to tell them none the less......

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[neilos100]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11969958

This is the BBC article from December last year reporting on the winter tyre argument....


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[percymon]

Volkswagen's official Winter Programme brochure is available for download here..

http://www.volkswagen-zubehoer.de/pd..._2011_engl.pdf


Looks like Dunlop lost their winter tyre contract this time round.

[percymon]

For those just wanting an emergency only, short term solution then i noticed today Asda are selling snow socks.

Snow socks are only for use on snow and ice, once back on tarmac they have to be removed. Limited to 30mph also from recollection