Quick Summary:
- Read the tyre sidewall for M+S or the 3PMSF symbol.
- Check tread depth and tyre condition before leaving the car park.
- Ask staff to record “all-season tyres fitted” on your agreement.
- Photograph each tyre’s markings and the odometer for later proof.
Winter weather around New York can switch quickly from wet roads to slush, ice, or heavy snow. When you collect a car hire vehicle, it is worth taking two minutes to confirm the tyres match the conditions you expect, especially if you are heading north, crossing state lines, or driving early mornings when roads may be untreated.
This guide focuses on quick checks you can do at pick-up: what to look for on the tyre sidewall, how to assess whether the tyres are actually suitable, and what to ask staff to note in writing so there is no confusion later. These steps are useful whether you collect at JFK airport car rental desks or across the river at Newark (EWR) car rental locations.
What “all-season” means for winter driving in New York
In the US, “all-season” usually means a tyre designed to work acceptably across a wide range of temperatures and road conditions, including light snow. It is not the same as a dedicated winter tyre, and it will not deliver the same braking and traction on packed snow or ice. Still, in much of the New York area, all-season tyres are the default fitment and can be appropriate for typical winter city driving, assuming the tread is healthy and you drive to conditions.
The key point at pick-up is to confirm you have at least all-season tyres, rather than summer-biased tyres or worn tyres that will struggle in cold, wet conditions. If you are planning longer trips, such as to upstate New York or into New Jersey, you may want to be even stricter about tyre markings and tread depth.
The fastest sidewall check: M+S vs 3PMSF
The simplest way to confirm the tyre type is to read the markings on the tyre sidewall. You do not need tools, just a phone torch helps. Turn the steering slightly to expose the front tyre sidewall, then check at least two tyres, ideally all four.
1) Look for “M+S” (Mud and Snow)
Many all-season tyres in the US carry an M+S mark. It is a common, quick indicator that the tyre is intended for mixed conditions, including light snow. However, M+S is a manufacturer designation and does not guarantee the tyre has passed a severe snow performance test.
2) Look for the 3PMSF symbol (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake)
This symbol looks like a snowflake inside a three-peaked mountain outline. It indicates the tyre meets a specific standard for severe snow service. Some all-season tyres are 3PMSF-rated, often marketed as “all-weather” tyres, and many dedicated winter tyres also carry it.
How to interpret what you see
If your aim is “all-season tyres for winter driving”, M+S usually satisfies that baseline. If you expect real snow, steep drives, or rural roads, 3PMSF provides added reassurance. If you see neither M+S nor 3PMSF, ask staff before you drive away, since the tyre may not be suitable for winter conditions.
Check the tyre size and that all four tyres match
Tyre sidewalls also show the size and specification, such as 225/60R17, plus a load index and speed rating. You do not need to decode every number, but you should confirm consistency.
Quick matching check: the brand and model should ideally match across all four tyres. At minimum, the size should match on the same axle (front pair, rear pair). Mixed tyres can happen after puncture repairs, but if one tyre is different and lacks M+S or 3PMSF while the others have it, treat that as a red flag for winter traction balance.
If you are collecting an SUV, this matters even more because mismatched tyres can affect stability systems and, in some cases, all-wheel-drive behaviour. If you are comparing different vehicle categories at pick-up, it can help to know what is typically supplied for SUV rental from New Jersey (EWR) versus a standard saloon.
Do a practical tread depth check in under 30 seconds
All-season tyres only work as intended if there is enough tread to clear water and slush. You do not need a gauge to do a basic check at pick-up.
Use the built-in wear bars: tyre grooves have raised “wear indicators” across the tread. If the tread is close to level with these bars, the tyre is near the legal minimum and will be poor in rain, slush, and snow. Ask for another vehicle.
Look for uneven wear: check the inner and outer shoulder of the tyre. If one edge is noticeably more worn, the car may have alignment issues that reduce grip and increase stopping distances.
Check for obvious damage: bulges, cuts, or cracking on the sidewall are not acceptable. Winter potholes are common around New York, and a weakened sidewall is a risk.
Do this check on at least the front tyres, because they steer and often handle a lot of braking load. If conditions are poor, check all four.
Confirm the tyre is appropriate for cold temperatures
Even with M+S, some tyres are better in cold than others. While you cannot fully test rubber compound at the kerb, you can use these clues:
All-season branding: many tyres explicitly say “All Season” on the sidewall. This is helpful confirmation alongside M+S.
3PMSF symbol: if present, it is a strong indicator the tyre is designed for harsher winter traction than basic M+S.
Tyre age (optional, but useful): on the sidewall you may find a four-digit DOT date code, such as 2422, meaning week 24 of 2022. Very old tyres can harden and lose wet grip, even if tread looks fine. If you notice tyres that appear significantly aged, raise it with staff.
What to ask staff to note in writing (and why it matters)
Visual checks are good, but written confirmation is what helps if there is a disagreement later, for example after a weather-related delay, a roadside incident, or a swap.
Keep your request simple and specific. At the counter or vehicle bay, ask staff to add a note on your rental agreement or the vehicle condition report that states:
“All-season tyres fitted (M+S)” or, if applicable, “3PMSF-rated tyres fitted”.
If the staff member says the fleet is all-season by default, still ask for the note. The aim is not to create extra hassle, it is to ensure your expectations match what you are given. This is especially helpful at busy hubs like Enterprise car rental at JFK, where vehicles move quickly between customers.
Also ask them to confirm:
Tyre condition checked, particularly if you observed any borderline tread or uneven wear. A short note like “tyres checked OK” can be useful.
Any existing wheel damage, such as scuffs, to avoid later disputes. Winter kerbs are easy to misjudge in slush.
Take photos that actually prove the tyres are all-season
A quick photo set can save time later. The key is to photograph the information that matters, not just a wide shot of the car.
Minimum photo checklist:
One close-up of the sidewall showing M+S or the 3PMSF symbol on the front left tyre. Repeat for at least one rear tyre. If all four tyres match, two tyres are often enough, but four is safest.
One photo showing tread grooves clearly, angled so the depth is visible.
One photo of the full wheel and tyre to document any existing kerb rash or damage.
One photo of the dashboard showing the odometer and any warning lights at start-up.
Take these before you leave the pick-up area. If you are collecting from across the Hudson at a busy airport terminal like National car rental at EWR, do the photos in good light and do not rush, because queues and traffic can be distracting.
If the markings are unclear, what to do at the desk
Sometimes sidewalls are dirty, the wheel is turned awkwardly, or the markings are on the inner sidewall. If you cannot confirm M+S or 3PMSF quickly:
Ask for a quick swap to a vehicle where you can clearly see the markings.
Ask staff to walk out and verify the tyre marking with you. If they confirm, ask them to note it in writing as described above.
Be specific about your route, such as “driving early mornings” or “heading north where snow is likely”. This frames your request as safety-focused rather than preference-based.
All-season tyres are not the whole winter plan
Even with correct tyres, winter driving depends on conditions and preparation. Before leaving with your car hire vehicle, check that you have:
Working wipers and washer fluid, with washer jets aimed correctly. Road salt spray is common.
A clear demister and heater, because fogging can be severe in wet cold weather.
Enough fuel or charge for delays. Cold weather traffic around New York can be slow.
Knowledge of local rules regarding chains and traction devices. Some hire companies restrict chain use, and some roads may require specific equipment during storms. If you anticipate extreme conditions, ask the desk about permitted options for your vehicle class.
Common misconceptions at pick-up
“All-season means it is fine for any winter.” It is often fine for typical conditions, but it is not a guarantee for severe snow or ice. Your driving speed, following distance, and route choice still matter.
“M+S is the same as the snowflake symbol.” They are different standards. M+S is common on all-season tyres, while 3PMSF indicates tested severe snow performance.
“If it is an SUV, the tyres must be winter-ready.” SUVs can be delivered on tyres that are more road-focused. Always check the sidewall markings and tread, even for larger vehicles.
FAQ
Q: Where exactly on the tyre do I find M+S or the snowflake symbol?
A: Look on the tyre sidewall, usually near the brand and model name. M+S is printed as letters. The 3PMSF symbol is a small mountain with a snowflake inside. You may need to roll the car slightly or turn the steering to see it clearly.
Q: Is M+S enough for winter driving around New York?
A: For typical New York metro winter conditions, M+S all-season tyres are usually the baseline you want, assuming tread is in good condition. If heavy snow is forecast or you are travelling to higher elevations, tyres with the 3PMSF symbol give extra confidence.
Q: What tread depth should I accept on a car hire vehicle in winter?
A: A simple rule is to avoid tyres that are close to the wear bars, because wet and slushy grip drops sharply. If the grooves look shallow or unevenly worn, ask for a different vehicle and have the tyre concern noted on the condition report.
Q: What should I ask the rental staff to write down?
A: Ask them to note “all-season tyres fitted (M+S)” or “3PMSF-rated tyres fitted” on your agreement or vehicle check sheet. Also request notes for any existing wheel scuffs or tyre concerns you observed before departure.
Q: If I cannot see the markings, can I rely on what staff tell me?
A: You can, but it is best to confirm visually and back it up with a written note. If markings are hidden or the tyre is dirty, ask staff to verify with you at the car and record the tyre type on the paperwork.
