Winter in Switzerland is magical, but it can also be tough on your car. Snow, ice, frost, and mountain passes demand extra preparation. Whether you commute daily or head into the Alps for skiing, making sure your car is ready can save you stress, money, and even your safety.

Here are the 8 essential things you should do (and buy) to prepare your car for winter in Switzerland.

1. Switch to Winter Tyres Early

In Switzerland, tyres must be “suitable for the conditions.” While the law doesn’t explicitly force winter tyres, in practice they are essential for safe driving on snow and ice.

• Change tyres before the first frost (usually October/November). Store your Summer tyres with the Service agent, its 50CHF and you don’t mess up your car!
  
  

• Check tread depth – at least 4 mm for good grip. Our personal favourite winter tyre is the Continental Intercontact TS870 (91CHF), but the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 is the new go to.
  
  

• Verify tyre pressure, which drops in cold weather.
  
  

• Don’t forget your spare wheel. Kind of important and figure out how to use the Jack, even know where it is.
  
  

• Check out providers like BestDrive (National), Pneus Claude (Geneva), Amag (National) and Pneuhaus Frank, all are good for changing out your tyres.
  
  

2. Snow Chains – Buy Them and Practise Fitting

On some Swiss roads, snow chains are mandatory. Even when not required, they provide critical traction in heavy snow. There are many options, the normal chains as we know it, but we recommend Köing CJ-9 series, its reliable, plenty of choice and can be repaired. But do practice as they can get crossed easily and make it difficult to put them on. Here’s an essential guide to installing snow-chains.

• Buy chains matched to your tyre size.
  
  

• Store them in the boot.
  
  

• Practise fitting at home before you need them in a storm.
  
  

• After fitting, drive 50–100 m and re-tighten.
  
  

3. Check Oil, Fluids and Antifreeze

Cold weather thickens oil and can freeze fluids. Prevent breakdowns with a quick check:

• Use winter-grade oil if recommended by your car manufacturer.
  
  

• Top up coolant with the right antifreeze mix.
  
  

• Fill washer fluid with a winter formula that won’t freeze.
  
  

• Keep a bottle of de-icer for locks and windows.
  
  

4. Test Your Battery and Carry a Portable Charger

Batteries lose capacity in the cold, and many winter breakdowns are caused by weak batteries.

• Have your battery tested before winter.
  
  

• Replace if older than 4–5 years or showing weakness.
  
  

• Keep a portable jump starter or removable charger in the car.
  
  

• Clean terminals for best performance.
  
  

5. Ensure Visibility: Wipers, Lights, and Frost Protection

Shorter days and snowstorms mean visibility is everything.

• Replace worn wiper blades with winter versions.
  
  

• Use a frost cover or winter windshield shade overnight. Check out the WeatherTech dual-sided SunShade, ideal for Winter.
  
  

• Check headlights, fog lights, and indicators all work.
  
  

• Always clear snow and ice from windows, mirrors, and plates before driving.
  
  

6. Protect Your Interior with All-Weather Mats

Snow, slush, and road salt quickly destroy carpets and make interiors messy. You may overlook these and struggle with carpet mats, but you’ll destroy the interior of your car very quickly. Here’s a guide to finding the right custom-fit all-weather winter car mat for your car. We recommend WeatherTech (of course), now available in Switzerland online or at Galaxus. Walser, Frogum or try automundo. But we can tell you that WeatherTech is probably the best you are going to find!

• Use all-weather car mats with raised edges to trap dirt and moisture.
  
  

• Add a cargo mat to keep your boot dry and clean.
  
  

• Keep a blanket and warm gloves inside for emergencies.
  
  

7. Build a Winter Emergency Kit

Swiss winters can mean traffic jams, road closures, or even being stranded. An emergency kit is essential:

• First aid kit - we really like the Care Plus
  
  

• High-visibility vest & warning triangle
  
  

• Torch or headlamp with spare batteries
  
  

• Emergency lights or flares
  
  

• Thermal blanket and warm clothing
  
  

• Small shovel and traction aids (sand or grit)
  
  

• Power bank and phone charger
  
  

8. Book a Full Winter Service Check

Before the cold sets in, schedule a service to make sure your car is winter-ready. So, go to your local garage with the check-list and get your car serviced in one go, it may save you in the future.

• Brakes, suspension, alignment
  
  

• Heater, defroster, heated mirrors
  
  

• Door seals and rubbers (prevent freezing)
  
  

• Undercarriage protection against road salt
  
  

• Spare bulbs and fuses
  
  

Finally

Taking these steps before the first snow means you’ll be ready for anything from frosty mornings in Zurich to icy roads in the Alps. Investing in the right equipment and protection, like snow chains, antifreeze, battery chargers, emergency gear, and WeatherTech all-weather mats, ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind.

Don’t wait for the first storm. Prepare now, and enjoy winter driving in Switzerland with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing Your Car for Winter in Switzerland

Are winter tyres mandatory in Switzerland?

Winter tyres are not legally mandatory, but Swiss law requires your car to be “suitable for the conditions.” If you drive on summer tyres in snow and cause an accident, you may be held liable. For safe driving, winter tyres with at least 4 mm tread depth are strongly recommended.

When should I put winter tyres on in Switzerland?

Most Swiss drivers change to winter tyres in October or early November, following the “O to O” rule (“October to Ostern” = Easter). This ensures you’re ready for early frosts and unexpected snowfalls.

Do I need snow chains in Switzerland?

Snow chains are required on certain roads and passes when indicated by signs. Police checks can fine you if you don’t comply. Even if not mandatory, chains are highly recommended when driving in mountain regions with heavy snow. Always practise fitting them before winter.

What washer fluid should I use in winter?

Always use winter windshield washer fluid with antifreeze. Standard summer fluid can freeze in sub-zero temperatures, leaving you without visibility. Choose a product rated for at least –20 °C to handle Swiss mountain conditions.

How do I stop my car windows from frosting over?

Use a winter windshield shade or frost cover overnight, park in a garage when possible, and make sure your heater and defroster are working properly. Keeping the car interior dry also helps reduce condensation and frost.

How can I prevent my car battery from failing in winter?

Cold reduces battery performance. Before winter, test your battery and replace it if weak. Carry a portable jump starter or charger, avoid leaving the car unused for long periods, and make sure the terminals are clean and tight.

What should be in a winter emergency kit for Switzerland?

A good kit includes: first aid, high-visibility vest, warning triangle, torch, spare batteries, thermal blanket, gloves, shovel, traction aids (sand or grit), and a portable phone charger. This ensures you’re prepared if you get stranded in the Alps or stuck in traffic during heavy snow.

How often should I wash my car in winter?

Salt and grit can quickly corrode paint and underbodies. Wash your car regularly in winter, especially after driving on salted roads. Use a wash that includes an undercarriage rinse to protect against rust.