Tyre Tread Depth
The legal minimum tread depth in Sweden is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread width. However, grip reduces significantly before the legal minimum — many experts recommend replacing summer tyres at 3 mm and winter tyres at 4 mm.
Use a tread depth gauge or the built-in wear indicators (small rubber blocks in the tread grooves) to check.
Tyre Pressure
- Check when the tyre is cold (driven less than 3 km)
- Correct pressures are in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame
- Under-inflation causes poor handling, higher fuel consumption, and uneven wear
- Over-inflation reduces the contact patch and makes handling unpredictable
- Check monthly and before long journeys
Winter Tyre Requirements in Sweden
Winter tyres are mandatory whenever there are wintry road conditions — snow, ice, or slush — regardless of the calendar date.
- Winter tyres or all-season tyres (with the snowflake/mountain symbol) required on all four wheels
- Minimum 3 mm tread depth for winter tyres to be effective
- Studded tyres: allowed from 1 October to the first Sunday after Easter
- Studded tyres may be prohibited on some streets in central Stockholm and Gothenburg
Roadworthiness Inspections (Kontrollbesiktning)
All Swedish-registered cars must pass periodic inspections at approved stations (Opus, DEKRA, Bilprovningen, etc.):
- First inspection — 3 years after first registration
- Second inspection — 5 years after first registration
- Thereafter — every 2 years
The deadline is the end of the month of first registration. A fee is charged; faults require re-inspection within 2 months.
What the Inspection Covers
- Brakes — efficiency and balance
- Steering — play and function
- Tyres and wheels — tread depth, condition, correct size
- Lights — all functions, aim
- Bodywork — structural integrity, rust
- Exhaust emissions
- Windscreen — cracks in the driver’s vision area
Key Takeaways
- Minimum tread: 1.6 mm legal; 3–4 mm recommended
- Check tyre pressure monthly when cold
- Winter tyres required when wintry conditions exist — not just in winter months
- First besiktning at 3 years; every 2 years after year 5