{"id":46896,"date":"2026-11-14T14:58:00","date_gmt":"2026-11-14T13:58:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.greendrive-accessories.com\/blog\/?p=46894"},"modified":"2026-09-23T20:47:17","modified_gmt":"2026-09-23T18:47:17","slug":"tesla-model-s-winter-tyres-guide-sizes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.greendrive-accessories.com\/blog\/language\/en\/tesla-model-s-winter-tyres-guide-sizes\/","title":{"rendered":"Tesla Model S winter tyres: a guide to sizes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Choosing winter tyres for a Tesla Model S requires more care than for an ordinary saloon car: high kerb weight, instant torque and, depending on the model year, different front and rear tyre sizes. A mistake in the tyre size or load index will result in increased wear, noise and poorer handling. Here\u2019s how to read your tyre specifications and choose the right part number.<\/p>\n

\"Pneus<\/p>\n

Tesla Model S winter tyres: identifying your generation<\/h2>\n

There are two distinct model families. Model S cars produced between 2012 and 2021 are most commonly fitted with 19-inch wheels of the same size on all four corners, which simplifies the purchasing process and allows tyres to be swapped between the front and rear. Since the 2021 redesign (Long Range and Plaid), the tyre fitment is generally offset, with wider tyres at the rear. Before ordering, note down the specifications marked on the sidewall of each tyre and compare them with the label on the driver\u2019s door pillar.<\/p>\n

Load index and XL marking: non-negotiable<\/h2>\n

A Model S weighs around two tonnes, with the weight concentrated at the very bottom due to the battery. The tyre must therefore have a load index at least equal to the original, often with XL (Extra Load) reinforcement. A lower rating causes the tyres to overheat, wear out more quickly and may cause problems during a post-accident assessment. The speed rating of winter tyres is sometimes one level lower than the original: adhere to this, and if necessary, activate the speed limit option available in the car\u2019s settings.<\/p>\n

Tyres only or complete wheels?<\/h2>\n

Buying winter tyres only means you\u2019ll have to remove the summer tyres from your original rims twice a year: this involves labour costs, the risk of scratches and fiddling with the sensors. On the Model S, the complete kit often becomes the more sensible option after three winters. Our set of tyres for the Tesla Model S<\/a> (\u20ac959.90) is available in summer, winter and all-season versions; our guide to Tesla Model S winter wheels<\/a> details the turnkey option, and the Tesla winter tyres<\/a> guide compares the two approaches.<\/p>\n

Why stick with 19-inch wheels in winter<\/h2>\n

In the colder months, 19-inch wheels offer the best compromise for the Model S: a taller sidewall that withstands potholes caused by thawing snow, a narrower tread that cuts through snow more effectively, and Tesla Model S winter tyres that are significantly cheaper than those for 21-inch wheels. The original 21-inch rims, whilst superb in dry conditions, remain highly vulnerable to road salt and impacts. Never go below the minimum diameter compatible with your model\u2019s brakes: this is something you should check before placing any order.<\/p>\n

\"Pneus<\/p>\n

Air suspension, noise and fuel consumption<\/h2>\n

Many Model S cars are fitted with air suspension. On snow-covered roads, maintain the standard ride height: the lowered mode reduces ground clearance and the space within the wheel arches. In terms of comfort, lamellated winter tyres are slightly noisier and consume a little more fuel \u2013 in the region of a few per cent, depending on the specific tyre model. This is the price you pay for significantly better grip below 7 \u00b0C, where summer tyres harden and lose traction.<\/p>\n

Tesla Model S winter tyres: the checklist before ordering<\/h2>\n