What does 3PMSF and M+S mean on my tyres?
8th January 2025
As the colder months draw nearer, it’s important to consider changing to winter or all-season tyres for better control in cold temperatures. If you’re unsure if your tyres are suitable for winter driving, there are a few easy ways to check…
How do I know if my tyres are suitable for the winter?
Most cars will come fitted new with summer tyres, however, if you are still unsure or have bought your car second hand there are a few easy ways to check.
The easiest way to identify a winter tyre is to look for the 3PMSF and M+S symbols on the sidewalls of your tyres. These markings are now an industry standard, with 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) being a legal requirement for drivers in countries with winter tyre legislation.
You may also try physical checks of the tyre as winter tyres should have a softer compound, and increased groove and sipe density compared to summer tyres, providing a visual distinction.
What are 3PMSF Tyres?
3PMSF, short for Three Peak Mountain Snowflake, is the best way to know your tyre is equipped and certified to drive in the snow.
This is awarded and certified by the EU to ensure that you can be confident in the safety of your winter and all-season tyres. To qualify, the manufacturer must test the tyre in a demanding set of tests covering traction, grip, handling and braking in snow, ice and wet conditions.
Davanti now has a growing lineup of 3PMSF-certified products including Terratoura, Wintoura and Alltoura, meaning Davanti is a great choice for winter driving.
Look out for the 3PMSF symbol on your tyres to check if they are certified for winter, recognisable by a snowflake encased in mountain peaks next to the M+S (Mud and Snow) symbol situated on the sidewall of your tyres.
M+S Tyres
M+S (mud and snow) indicates the manufacturer has labelled the tyre suitable for snowy or muddy conditions, usually matched together with the 3PMSF symbol for a little extra clarity.
M+S alone doesn’t ensure it’s capability in cold conditions, as the manufacturer does not need to go through the same stringent winter testing to be certified.
For more information about our certified 3PMSF range, contact your local Davanti dealer using our handy dealer locator. Also, learn more about the range of 3PMSF-certified tyres by reading our guide on how to get out there this winter with our 3PMSF range.
