Tire Change and Storage – Prices and Tips
In Finland, winter tyres are mandatory depending on road conditions, so tyre changes are part of every car owner’s yearly routine. In this guide we explain what a tyre change costs, when the winter tyres are changed and how the tyres should be stored.
Tyre change prices
| Service | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Tyre change with rims | €25–50 per set |
| Tyre change without rims | €50–90 per set |
| Tyre balancing | €10–20 per tyre |
| Tyre storage / season | €25–50 per set |
When are the tyres changed?
- Winter tyres – when the conditions require it, typically from November to March.
- Summer tyres – when the night frosts are over, typically in April–May.
- Studded tyres – the usage period is regulated; check the rules for your area.
The rules in brief
- The tread depth in the main grooves of winter tyres must be at least 3.0 mm.
- Studded tyres may be used 1.11–31.3 and at other times if weather or road conditions require it.
- You may drive with friction tyres all year round – they are not restricted by season.
- The rules are based on the Road Traffic Act 729/2018 (§105–106).
How should the tyres be stored?
- Without rims – stack the tyres upright and change their position occasionally.
- With rims – store the tyres on the floor or on a rack.
- Clean and dry – wash the tyres before storage.
- Avoid moisture and direct sunlight – they wear the rubber.
- Check the air pressure – store the tyres at the recommended pressure.
Money-saving tips
- Book well in advance – queues are long during the seasons.
- Compare prices – tyre shop prices vary a lot.
- Storage service – many shops offer tyre storage in the same package as the change.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tyre change cost? A tyre change costs €25–50 with rims and €50–90 without rims per set. Balancing costs €10–20 per tyre.
When are the winter tyres changed? The winter tyres are changed when the conditions require it – typically from November to March. Studded tyres may be used 1.11–31.3.
Can you drive all year with friction tyres? Yes. Friction tyres are winter tyres, but the law does not restrict their use by season.
How much does tyre storage cost? Tyre storage typically costs €25–50 per season and set, often in the same package as the change.
Compare tyre shops
Compare local tyre shops in the tyre shop comparison and choose the best price-to-service ratio for you. The most popular cities are Helsinki, Oulu and Rovaniemi. Also read the studded vs friction tyres comparison.