Winter Car Buying Checklist for Switzerland

Nowadays, winter in Switzerland can either quite warm or very cold. Snow falls can happen at any time and when you are not ready, you’d rather not use your car which can be quite annoying when you must go to work or pick up your children.

When you do not live up the hill, you do not necessarily need to get a 4WD car — good winter tires will do the job. However, if you live in the mountains or go up on a regular basis, it makes more sense to have at least one 4WD vehicle in the household. Winter driving conditions in Switzerland can vary greatly depending on altitude and region, so choosing the right car and preparing it for the cold season is key to safe and comfortable travel.

While winter tires are not legally compulsory in Switzerland, they are strongly recommended — especially for insurance reasons. In case of an accident under winter conditions (such as snow, ice, or very low temperatures), not having proper tires can affect your insurance coverage. Most Swiss drivers switch from summer to winter tires around October or November, and back again in April or even early May.

When shopping for a car to handle the Swiss winter, here’s what to look for:

1. Winter Tires
Start with a good set of winter tires. They provide better grip, braking, and overall handling in cold, slippery conditions. Avoid 4-season tires — they tend to perform poorly both in summer and winter, offering compromises rather than true safety in either season.

2. Heated Features
Look for heated seats, steering wheel, and mirrors. These comfort features make a huge difference during frosty mornings and long drives through snow-covered valleys. A heated windshield or defrosting system is also extremely practical for quickly clearing ice.

3. Traction Control and Stability Systems
Modern traction and stability control systems are vital for winter driving. They help prevent wheel spin and maintain control on icy roads. If your chosen model offers advanced driving assistance systems like hill descent control, even better for mountain routes.

4. Snow Chains Compatibility
Even with winter tires, some mountain passes require snow chains during heavy snowfall. Make sure your car can be fitted with them and keep a set in the trunk when you plan a trip through high mountains — you never know when they’ll be needed.

5. Cold-Weather Performance
Diesel engines can be harder to start in extreme cold, while electric vehicles may experience range reduction. Check manufacturer’s specifications and ask your dealer about cold-weather performance before deciding.

Whether you’re buying a compact city car or a family SUV, proper winter preparation ensures you stay safe and confident on Swiss roads. At Autociel.ch, we can help you find the right car to handle Switzerland’s unique winter conditions — from tire choices to 4WD options, we’ve got you covered.

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