How to prepare your car for the Swedish winter

Sweden is a long country, stretching an impressive 160 Swedish mil (1,600 kilometres) from its southernmost to its northernmost point. This means that winter will arrive at different times in different parts of the country, and that it will last for many months for some of us, and a few weeks for others. In any case, winter is a real thing here, and this will have some consequences on your driving and your car. In the Nordics, winter conditions make up for a significant part of the driving year and are not considered deviations from the norm. Being able to manoeuvre your vehicle safely in cold, snowy, dark and slippery conditions is as important – or even more critical – than being able to drive in summer weather. So here is our guide on how to prepare your car for the Swedish winter!

Winter tyres

Most importantly, you need to use winter tyres when the weather dictates. Winter tyres are a legal requirement from 1 December until 31 March. You are allowed to use spiked tyres between 1 October and 15 April. You are not allowed to use spiked tyres from 16 April to 30 September unless it’s necessary because of the weather conditions. Many car owners change the tyres (or, technically speaking, the wheels) on their own, whereas others take their cars to a local garage (bilverkstad) to have it done for them. Many garages also offer tyre hotel (däckhotell) services, meaning you can leave your summer tyres with them during the winter and vice versa. This can be a lifesaver for car owners living in small flats or houses, and also saves you the trouble of putting them into the trunk when it’s time to take your car to the garage.

Some car owners opt for allround tyres instead of shifting wheels twice a year. This may be a good option for some drivers, but certainly not all of us. Allround tyres must be marked with a snowflake, a mountain peak, or a combination of letters: M+S, M&S, M-S, MS or Mud and Snow. Other kinds are not suitable for Swedish driving conditions and are hence not allowed. Allround tyres may suit you if you live in the south of Sweden, drive sporadically, and avoid driving on days with heavy snowfall or plenty of ice. For others, properly spiked tyres are a much better option, as they offer superior grip on slippery surfaces. This is what you should go for if you are dependent on your car on an everyday or weekly basis. It may cost more, but it can save lives. And remember that just because something is legal, it doesn’t automatically mean that it’s a good idea.

Essential equipment

Beyond tyres, you should consider different situations that may occur because of winter weather, or that may be complicated due to low temperatures or lack of daylight. Make sure you prepare your car for the Swedish winter by having the following items for the whole season:

• Snow shovel (in case you get stuck in snow. This is particularly important if you park your car on a street, where snow clearing may result in a significant snow bank between your vehicle and the road.)
• Ice scrape. If your car is parked overnight, it’s likely to be covered in a thin layer of ice the next day. You need to scrape off this ice before driving, or otherwise, you won’t see the road clearly.
• Snow brush. If your car is parked in snowy weather, snow needs to be removed. Remember to remove all snow, including what’s on the roof. Remaining snow counts as an “unsecured load” and may result in a fine.
• Extra windscreen wiper fluid. You will need more than usual when it snows.
• An old rug. This can provide grip if you get stuck in the snow, especially if it’s new and fresh. If you don’t have any, use one of the rubber floor mats in the car. An alternative is a bucket of sand, but if it’s wet, it may turn into a block of sandy ice, so it’s not entirely reliable.
• Jump start cables. Cold weather can deplete car batteries. Swedes are used to this, and if you end up needing help, fellow drivers are usually more than happy to assist by connecting their batteries to yours.

The above list applies to all winter driving, even if you are going only a short distance between your home and the supermarket. You will discover that parking and parking your car can be tricky, especially when there has been plenty of precipitation in a short time frame. Make sure you are well-equipped before you need it. Last winter, I walked past a couple trying to remove the snow banks between their car and the street. To me, it seemed evident that they were new to Sweden, based mainly on the fact that they were using paper plates to remove the snow. It looked like an inefficient, cold and exhausting procedure.

Emergency kit

If you are travelling further, consider an emergency kit in case you get stuck somewhere. The purpose of such a kit is to keep you warm and comfortable in case you need to spend several hours in your car in a remote location.

• Blankets. Ordinary wool blankets are great, but if you are short on space, you can get special foil blankets that can be folded up into pocket-sized pouches.
• Tealights and matches for warmth and light.
• A hot drink in a thermos.
• A power bank to charge your phone. As the cold may deplete your battery, you shouldn’t keep your engine on acc mode in sub-zero temperatures.
• Snacks. Preferably, always keep some non-perishable snacks in your car. It could be crackers, nuts, dried fruit, or sweets.
• A reflective vest in case you need to walk in the dark.

Last of all, equip yourself with some sensibility. Driving in winter conditions can be straightforward on some days and very difficult on others. Conditions can change fast, even while you are on the road. Plan ahead, and add plenty of margins. If you don’t think it’s a good idea to drive, don’t.

Learn more about winter driving in the newly released handbook Driving in Sweden: The A–Z Guide. Here, you will get practical tips related to the climatic and cultural conditions shaping the overall driving experience on Swedish roads.