All-Season Tyres in the UK: An Overview of Costs and Benefits

The twice-yearly tyre swap can be a costly and time-consuming chore for UK drivers. All-season tyres offer a convenient alternative, promising reliable performance in many weather conditions. This overview explains the pros and cons, how they handle typical UK winters, and how to compare prices online (including fitting) to find a fair deal

All-Season Tyres in the UK: An Overview of Costs and Benefits

All Season Tyres: who are they for?

All season tyres combine elements of summer and winter compounds to offer dependable performance across varied UK weather. They carry the M+S marking and, on many models, the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol indicating a basic level of winter traction. In moderate British winters with occasional frosts and rare heavy snow, they can reduce seasonal tyre swaps while maintaining solid wet braking and aquaplaning resistance. However, in prolonged sub-zero conditions or mountainous regions with frequent snow, dedicated winter tyres still provide superior grip.

Best all season tyres: what matters most?

When assessing the best all season tyres for your car, focus on measurable criteria rather than labels. Wet braking and handling are crucial for UK roads; look for strong ratings and independent test performance. The 3PMSF marking helps confirm cold-weather capability, while rolling resistance affects fuel efficiency or EV range. Noise ratings, tread life, and consistent performance as tyres wear are also important. Choose the correct size, load, and speed rating from your vehicle handbook, and consider reinforced (XL) or EV-specific variants if your car is heavier or delivers high torque.

Continental all season tyres: key points

Continental’s all season range has emphasised balanced wet grip, snow mobility, and low rolling resistance. Many drivers consider the AllSeasonContact line because it targets year-round predictability, with sizes covering common UK fits, 3PMSF certification on most variants, and developments aimed at improving wet performance and steering feel. As with any brand, the exact results vary by tyre size and vehicle, so consult recent test data and confirm availability for your specific dimensions before purchasing from retailers in your area.

Michelin all season tyres: key points

Michelin’s CrossClimate family is widely recognised for combining all season convenience with confident dry and wet behaviour and a 3PMSF rating. The CrossClimate 2 is available in a broad size range, including higher load versions suitable for SUVs and electric vehicles. Michelin places particular focus on maintaining performance as the tread wears. As with any premium product, pricing tends to be higher than mid-range options, so it’s worth comparing total fitted costs and balancing longevity, safety performance, and your annual mileage.

Car tyres price list: what to expect

Price lists in the UK typically vary by tyre width, profile, and rim diameter, plus speed/load ratings. Brand tier also matters: budget tyres are cheapest; mid-range and premium cost more but may offer stronger wet braking, lower noise, or longer life. Retailers often quote “fitted” prices that include new valves and balancing; alignment and tyre disposal can be extra. Online marketplaces may list “tyre-only” prices, with a separate fitting fee at partner garages.

UK price overview and comparison (estimates for common sizes; actual costs vary by size, retailer, and fitting):


Product/Service Provider Cost Estimation
CrossClimate 2 (205/55 R16) Michelin £120–£170 per tyre fitted
AllSeasonContact 2 (205/55 R16) Continental £110–£160 per tyre fitted
Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 (205/55 R16) Goodyear £100–£150 per tyre fitted
WeatherControl A005 EVO (205/55 R16) Bridgestone £95–£140 per tyre fitted
Cinturato All Season SF2 (205/55 R16) Pirelli £100–£145 per tyre fitted

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

As a general guide, smaller sizes such as 185/65 R15 can be £70–£120 fitted per tyre in many cases, while popular family car sizes like 205/55 R16 or 225/45 R17 typically range from about £95–£170 depending on brand and retailer. Large SUV or EV sizes (e.g., 235/55 R19 or 255/45 R20) can exceed £180–£260 each. Expect potential extras for wheel alignment, tyre disposal, TPMS service kits, and puncture repairs. Buying four tyres at once can unlock package pricing, so compare total fitted costs from local services in your area.

Practical selection tips for UK roads

  • Prioritise wet braking and aquaplaning resistance due to frequent rain.
  • Look for the 3PMSF symbol if you routinely face frost or occasional snow.
  • Match load and speed ratings exactly; use XL or EV-marked options when required.
  • Check date codes and warranty terms, and verify that fitting quotes include valves, balancing, and disposal.
  • Rotate tyres regularly and maintain correct pressures to preserve even wear and consistent performance.

Benefits and limitations at a glance

All season tyres save time by avoiding seasonal changeovers and can be cost-effective when you factor in swap fees and storage. They offer convenience for mixed conditions and predictable handling across most of the UK climate. The trade-off is that, in extreme cold or heavy snow, a specialist winter tyre will still outperform them, and in very hot conditions repeated track use or high-speed driving may favour a dedicated summer tyre. Choose based on your local weather, driving style, and annual mileage profile.

Conclusion

For many UK motorists, all season tyres provide a practical balance of safety, comfort, and convenience throughout the year. Selecting the right model involves weighing wet and cold-weather performance, rolling resistance, noise, and size-specific availability. Pricing depends on dimensions, brand tier, and whether fitting is included, so it is sensible to compare total costs across retailers while focusing on safety-critical performance metrics.